A Teaching Assistant job in the UK is one of the most in-demand education roles today, especially for individuals who want to work in schools without being a fully qualified teacher.
Whether you are a UK resident or an international applicant looking for an entry pathway into the UK education sector, teaching assistant jobs offer stability, purpose, and growth opportunities.
In this guide, you will learn what a teaching assistant is, job roles, salary, certifications, job descriptions, and how to apply successfully.
What Is a Teaching Assistant?
A Teaching Assistant (TA) is an education support professional who works alongside teachers in primary schools, secondary schools, and special education settings. Their main role is to support pupils’ learning, classroom management, and individual development.
Teaching assistants play a vital role in helping students who need extra attention, including children with learning difficulties or disabilities.
Teaching Assistant Job Role in the UK
Understanding the teaching assistant job role is essential before applying. While duties vary by school, the core responsibilities include:
- Supporting teachers during lessons
- Working with students one-on-one or in small groups
- Helping prepare classroom materials
- Managing student behavior and engagement
- Assisting children with special educational needs (SEN)
- Supervising pupils during breaks and school trips
- Keeping learning records and progress notes
A teaching assistant job focuses more on student support than lesson planning.
Job Description: Teaching Assistant (UK Schools)
Below is a standard job description for a teaching assistant in the UK:
- Assist teachers in delivering lessons
- Provide learning support to pupils
- Help maintain a safe and positive classroom environment
- Support literacy and numeracy activities
- Observe and report student progress
- Help students with physical, emotional, or behavioral needs
- Follow safeguarding and school policies
This role is ideal for individuals passionate about education, child development, and classroom support.
Teaching Assistant Jobs in the UK for Foreigners
Many schools and recruitment agencies offer teaching assistant jobs in the UK for international applicants, especially those with:
- Relevant education or childcare experience
- English language proficiency
- Experience working with children
- Right to work in the UK (or visa eligibility)
Although most teaching assistant roles do not automatically offer visa sponsorship, international applicants can apply through:
- Skilled Worker visa (in rare cases)
- Graduate visa
- Family visa
- Student visa (part-time roles)
Highest paying cities for Teaching Assistants near United Kingdom
Below are highest paying cities for Teaching Assistants near the United Kingdom:
| City | Average Pay per Day | Number of Salaries Reported |
| London | £102 | 4.6k |
| Manchester | £98.98 | 731 |
| Stoke-on-Trent | £98.54 | 193 |
| Milton Keynes | £98.51 | 78 |
| Birmingham | £97.68 | 1.2k |
| Nottingham | £97.68 | 292 |
| Derby | £97.68 | 387 |
| Bradford | £97.68 | 219 |
| Leicester | £97.68 | 194 |
Teaching Assistant Certification: Do You Need One?
You do not always need a degree to become a teaching assistant in the UK. However, having a teaching assistant certification greatly improves your chances of employment.
Popular Certification for Teaching Assistants
- Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning
- Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning
- CACHE Teaching Assistant Qualification
- SEN Teaching Assistant Certification
These certifications are recognised across UK schools and employers.
Certification for Teaching Assistant: Best Options in the UK
If you are new to the field, enrolling in a certification for a teaching assistant is highly recommended.
Best options include:
- Online TA courses (UK-accredited)
- College-based Level 2 or Level 3 diplomas
- SEN-focused training programs
Certifications can be completed online or part-time, making them suitable for both locals and foreigners.
Teaching Assistant Pay in the UK
The teaching assistant’s pay in the UK depends on experience, location, and school type.
Average Salary Range
- Entry-level: £18,000 – £20,000 per year
- Experienced TA: £21,000 – £25,000 per year
- SEN Teaching Assistant: Up to £30,000 per year
Hourly pay typically ranges from £9 to £15 per hour, especially for part-time roles.
Teaching Assistant Job: Full-Time vs Part-Time
A teaching assistant job can be:
- Full-time (term-time only)
- Part-time
- Temporary or supply roles
Term-time contracts are popular because they allow for school holidays off, making the job attractive for parents and students.
Job for Teaching Assistant: Who Can Apply?
A job for teaching assistant is suitable for:
- School leavers
- Graduates
- Career switchers
- Childcare workers
- International applicants with UK work rights
Key skills required:
- Patience and communication
- Child care or education experience
- Teamwork and organization
- Basic literacy and numeracy
Teaching Assistant Jobs Near Me: Where to Find Them
To find teaching assistant jobs near me, check the following platforms:
- NHS Jobs (education support roles)
- Indeed UK
- Totaljobs
- Reed.co.uk
- Local council websites
- School trust websites
- Education recruitment agencies
Using location-based keywords increases job visibility.
How to Apply for a Teaching Assistant Job in the UK (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
Step 1: Get the Right Qualification
Enrol in a recognised teaching assistant certification.
Step 2: Prepare Your CV
Highlight:
- Childcare experience
- Teaching support skills
- Certifications
- Volunteer experience
Step 3: Write a Strong Cover Letter
Explain why you want to support students and work in education.
Step 4: Apply Online
Apply directly through school websites or job portals.
Step 5: Pass DBS Checks
Most schools require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Teaching Assistant Job Benefits in the UK
Working as a teaching assistant offers many advantages:
- Stable employment
- Meaningful work with children
- Flexible hours
- Career progression into teaching
- Opportunity to work in SEN education
- Good work-life balance
Career Progression After a Teaching Assistant Job
A teaching assistant role can lead to:
- Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
- SEN Specialist
- Early Years Practitioner
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Education Support Manager
Many teachers in the UK start as teaching assistants.
FAQs
What is a teaching assistant?
A teaching assistant supports teachers and helps students with learning and classroom activities.
Do I need a degree to become a teaching assistant in the UK?
No. Certifications and experience are often sufficient.
Can foreigners apply for teaching assistant jobs in the UK?
Yes, provided they have the right to work or valid visa options.
How much does a teaching assistant earn in the UK?
Between £18,000 and £25,000 per year, depending on experience.
Are teaching assistant jobs available near me?
Yes. Schools across the UK regularly hire teaching assistants.