Teaching assistant - one path into teaching jobs in the UK

In the UK, the education sector offers a number of different avenues into it, and becoming a teaching assistant is perhaps the easiest route of all. Teaching assistants provide vital support for teachers and enhance the learning experience of students, and it could be a stepping stone for people aspiring to secure teaching jobs in the UK. Here’s why anyone interested in a career in education should seriously consider it.

What is the role of teaching assistants?

Becoming a teaching assistant is considered by many to be the ideal entry point into the profession, as it gives you firsthand experience in the classroom, helps you understand the dynamics of teaching and develops the skills that are essential for your future career.

As a teaching assistant, you can expect to…

●  Work closely with students

●  Help them with their learning activities

●  Support those with special educational needs

●  Facilitate an overall positive and productive environment

This kind of foundational experience will help you stand out immeasurably if you wish to later advance to a teaching role.

One of the main advantages of working as a teaching assistant is the opportunity to observe qualified teachers in their day-to-day. It will help you to learn effective teaching strategies, classroom management techniques and tried-and-tested ways to engage pupils from diverse backgrounds. Not only will you gain an understanding of how to apply the national curriculum and cater to the varying needs of children in your care, but it also provides practical insight into the challenges and rewards of being a teacher. This can inform your career choices later on.

 What do you need to become a teaching assistant?

If you’re looking at teaching jobs in the UK, most positions require a minimum level of education (often at least a GCSE in English and Maths) and a commitment to working with children. Some roles may require additional qualifications, such as a BA (Hons) in Education and Learning which you can obtain from the University of Bolton. This will look great to prospective employers on your CV, but also provide essential training in child development, safeguarding and educational support.

Teaching assistants can also take advantage of the many workshops and training offered by schools to expand their skills and gain further certification. This kind of continuous development will open a lot of doors for you as your career progresses. Many teachers have also been known to recommend their outstanding teaching assistants for full-time positions when they come up, which is just another way that being in the classroom will help you to advance in your career.

Interested in learning more about the ways you can get started in teaching? Explore one of our teaching degrees and come see and enjoy #UniAsItShouldBe; where you’ll learn all the skills that employers in education look for and how to turn them into a rewarding long-term career. Talk to us at 01204 903394 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk to find out more.