Recent government research on how schools are using Teaching Assistants (TAs) aligns closely with my own experiences. The report, Use of Teaching Assistants in Schools published by the UK government, highlights the evolving and vital role that TAs play in today’s classrooms. Having worked as a primary school TA myself from 2007, I saw first-hand how this role can be pivotal in supporting students and teachers alike. For me, being a TA was not just a job, but a vocation and stepping stone into teaching. While working in the classroom, I pursued a part-time degree and eventually qualified as a teacher in 2013. This journey gave me a deep appreciation of the TA role, one that I believe is often misunderstood/undervalued in schools today.
TAs are the bridge between children and teachers. A skilled TA is worth their weight in gold and finding a great one can truly transform the classroom experience. They are more than just an extra pair of hands—they enhance the learning journey for students and all staff alike. TAs often go above and beyond for the sake of the children and their colleagues, playing a key role in day-to-day functioning and relating to the wider positivity of a classroom.
Over the years, the role of the TA has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days when TAs were seen as general classroom helpers. Today, they are expected to be highly skilled, with expertise in areas such as Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Teachers are now faced with increasingly complex demands, and TAs have become vital in supporting these challenges. When I started work as a TA in 2007, the expectation for teachers to have such a broad knowledge of SEND (for example) was far lower, and the workload wasn’t as intense. Now, TAs are essential in helping teachers manage the diverse needs of their students in the classroom and beyond. For example, in the past my TAs have supported with clubs, on a one-to-one basis or with small groups in various ways, supported the well-being of anxious children coming into school, supported myself when I arrived at a new school or in a new year group (Caroline, Y6)! Being a collaborative team can be so valuable.
Since COVID-19, the mental health and well-being of students has noticeably declined, and pupils seem less resilient and confident. Speech and language issues have also become more prevalent. In this context, the role of TAs are more important than ever. They are often working directly with children to provide key additional support.
Despite their critical role, TAs are frequently seen as expendable during times of budget cuts, especially in the current economic climate. Schools, however, know how valuable TAs are. Having a second adult in the classroom can make all the difference, and many schools are getting creative with how they deploy limited TAs within their budget constraints. Data shows that primary schools are now looking to streamline TA numbers and focus on deploying them more effectively. In this challenging financial environment, creativity and adaptability are key, and schools are doing their best to make the most of these invaluable staff members.
To the support staff who have helped me throughout my career—thank you. Your resilience, kindness, and dedication have made a lasting impact on both me and the students we've worked with. TAs are truly unsung heroes within primary education.
For more insights, you can read the full government report.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/use-of-teaching-assistants-in-schools