Teaching Assistant: FAQs

 

Working as a Teaching Assistant can be a great career choice for many reasons. It can be rewarding to see pupils make progress and develop. It can also fit nicely into the lives of those who value their free time in the evenings and at the weekends.

 

If you have considered the idea of pursuing a job as a Teaching Assistant, you may have questions about what a Teaching Assistant role entails. To help, we’ve answered the top FAQs around the Teaching Assistant job role, so you know what to expect when you make the career switch into becoming a Teachers Assistant. From Teaching Assistant qualifications to professional development, we cover everything you need to know.

 

If you’re interested in learning more about the role as a TA including qualifications, education requirements, skills, career paths and more, take a look at our job descriptions for Teaching Assistants, SEN Teaching Assistants and Higher-Level Teaching Assistants. If you still have questions or want to start your career as a Teaching Assistant, get in touch with our team today!

 

  • What do Teaching Assistants do?

    Teaching Assistants play a crucial role in supporting teachers and students within the classroom. Their duties may include:

     

    • Assisting with lesson preparation and planning.
    • Providing one-on-one support to students who require additional help.
    • Supporting small group activities and facilitating learning exercises.
    • Helping to maintain a positive and inclusive learning environment.
    • Assisting with classroom management and behaviour reinforcement.
    • Providing feedback on student progress to the teacher.
    • Helping with administrative tasks, such as preparing materials and organising resources.
    • Supporting students with special educational needs or disabilities, as directed by the teacher or Special Educational Needs Coordinator.
    • Supervising students during break times, lunch, and other non-teaching periods.
    • Collaborating with teachers and other staff members to ensure the overall well-being and success of pupils.
  • What types of supply roles do you offer to Teaching Assistants?

    We offer a variety of Teaching Assistant roles in both mainstream and Special Educational Needs (SEN) settings.

     

    In mainstream schools, you will be responsible for supporting teachers in the classroom, providing one-on-one assistance to students, helping with administrative tasks, and contributing to the overall learning environment.

     

    On the other hand, SEN Teaching Assistant roles involve supporting students with unique educational requirements and looking after children’s physical, social and emotional welfare.

     

    Whether you prefer working with specific age groups or prefer certain responsibilities, we strive to match you with supply roles that align with your expertise and interests. 

  • What qualifications and experience are required to work as a TA with Monarch?

    To become a teaching assistant with Monarch, we typically require the following qualifications and criteria: 

     

    Essential: 

    • Previous experience working with children (including any transferrable skills) 
    • A valid DBS or be willing to obtain one 
    • Right to work in the UK 
    • A minimum of two references covering the last two years 
    • Passionate about working with children and supporting their learning journey 

     

    Desirable: 

    • Previous experience working as a Teaching Assistant 
    • For an SEN role, experience working with learning difficulties like Autism, ADHD, SLD and PMLD 
  • What qualities do Teaching Assistants need?

    Teaching Assistants require a diverse set of qualities to effectively support students and teachers in the classroom. Some essential qualities include:

     

    • Patience: Ability to remain calm and patient, especially when working with students who may require additional support or have behavioural challenges.

     

    • Adaptability: Willingness to adapt to changing situations and support a variety of teaching styles and classroom environments.

     

    • Communication skills: Clear and effective communication skills to collaborate with teachers, students, and other staff members.

     

    • Empathy: Understanding and empathy towards students’ individual needs, backgrounds, and learning styles.

     

    • Flexibility: Ability to multitask, prioritise, and manage various responsibilities within a dynamic classroom setting.

     

    • Teamwork: Capacity to work collaboratively with teachers and other educational professionals to support student learning and development.

     

    • Initiative: Proactive approach to assisting teachers and students, seeking opportunities to contribute positively to the classroom environment.

     

    • Organisational skills: Strong organisational skills to assist with classroom management, lesson preparation, and resource organisation.

     

    • Adaptability: Readiness to adapt to the needs of individual students and respond effectively to unexpected challenges or situations.

     

    • Enthusiasm: Genuine enthusiasm for working with students and contributing to their educational journey, inspiring a positive learning atmosphere.
  • What are the benefits of registering as a Teaching Assistant with Monarch?

    There are many benefits of registering as a Teaching Assistant with Monarch Education. Here are just a few:

     

  • Can I choose between part-time and full-time positions?

    Yes! Teaching Assistants have the flexibility to choose between part-time and full-time positions. We understand the importance of accommodating individual schedules and preferences, allowing our Teaching Assistants to strike a balance that suits their lifestyle and professional commitments. 

  • What support do you provide to help Teaching Assistants succeed in their roles?

    We are dedicated to providing comprehensive support and guidance to Teaching Assistants to help them excel in their roles and achieve their career goals. Each Teaching Assistant registered with us is paired with a dedicated consultant who serves as their primary point of contact.

     

    Teaching Assistants can reach out to their consultant with any questions, concerns, or requests for assistance. Our consultants offer personalised guidance and support throughout your teaching journey. 

  • Are there any opportunities for learning and professional development for Teaching Assistants?

    We offer all candidates access to Affinity Academy, our dedicated hub for learning and development. It provides Teaching Assistants with a wealth of resources, training materials, and information to enhance their skills and knowledge.

     

    Teaching Assistants registered with us have the opportunity to participate in online training courses designed to support their professional development. These courses cover a wide range of topics including personal and professional conduct, insight into supporting teaching and learning as well as providing strategies to enhance student achievement. Why not book a place on our upcoming training sessions?

     

    As a registered candidate of Monarch, you also have access to The Skills Network, where you can explore over 30 level 3 online learning courses that will help you upskill, reskill, and personally develop.   

  •  What are the average pay rates for Teaching Assistants with Monarch?

    The average pay rates for Teaching Assistants vary based on factors such as location, experience and specific requirements of the job. On average, the pay rates for our Teaching Assistant roles range between £70 – £110 per day.

  • How do I register as a Teaching Assistant with Monarch?

    To start your education journey with us, simply get in touch with your local branch. Alternatively, apply for one of our Teaching Assistant roles and we will contact you directly!