Looking for vacancies for teaching assistant positions? This guide highlights the latest teaching assistant roles available, from primary schools to specialized SEN positions. Explore job listings in London and beyond, find out about the pay scales, and understand the requirements to kickstart or advance your teaching assistant career.
Key Takeaways
London offers a wide array of teaching assistant jobs in various boroughs, with competitive salaries and roles ranging from general teaching assistants to specialized positions like SEN and Speech and Language Teaching Assistants.
Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs) in the UK enjoy competitive salaries, with entry-level positions starting at around £22,600, and can earn up to £29,500 annually, reflecting their advanced responsibilities and skills.
Opportunities for ongoing professional development and training are essential for teaching assistants to stay effective, with Continuous Professional Development (CPD) activities and resources provided by organizations like the National Association of Professional Teaching Assistants (NAPTA).
Current Teaching Assistant Jobs in London
London’s vibrant educational landscape offers a wealth of teaching assistant jobs. From bustling central boroughs to quieter suburbs, opportunities abound for those passionate about supporting teaching. Recent listings include positions in Kings Cross starting in September 2024 and in Hammersmith, showcasing the diverse range of openings.
For instance, a teaching assistant role in Roehampton, Wandsworth, offers a competitive monthly salary ranging from £1700 to £2100. The diverse roles accommodate a range of interests and specializations, guaranteeing options for all.
SEN Teaching Assistant Roles
Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching assistants are fundamental in assisting students with distinct learning requirements. In Westminster, a full-time SEN teaching assistant role offers a daily salary between £90 and £105. Similarly, Wandsworth offers a position with a pay rate of £85-£90 per day, while another vacancy in Lewisham focuses on ASD and behavior support.
One notable role is for a Speech and Language Teaching Assistant, reflecting the diverse needs and specializations within the SEN teaching sector. These positions, besides offering competitive salaries, yield a fulfilling experience through their substantial impact on students’ lives.
Primary School Teaching Assistant Positions
Primary schools across London are actively seeking dedicated teaching assistants to support young learners. Here are some available positions:
Hackney: starting in September 2024
Grasmere: seeking passionate candidates
Bromley: Year 4 teaching assistant role
Barnet: role supporting Year 1 children
These roles allow close interaction with young learners, nurturing their growth during their formative years. The roles typically align with term-time schedules, offering a balanced work-life arrangement.
Graduate Opportunities
There is an abundance of opportunities for graduate teaching assistants, especially in London. Psychology graduates, for example, can find roles in special schools in Westminster, providing a platform to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Kensington and Chelsea also offer positions for graduates supporting children with Autism.
These roles are perfect for those passionate about children’s education and looking to kickstart their careers. With numerous openings tailored to recent graduates, the transition from academic life to a fulfilling career in education has never been smoother.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant Jobs
Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs) in the UK enjoy competitive salaries, reflecting their advanced skills and responsibilities. Here is an overview of HLTA salaries:
The average HLTA salary is approximately £24,700 per year
Entry-level positions start at around £22,600
Experienced HLTAs can earn up to £29,500 annually
Eligibility to work in the UK is a prerequisite to qualify for these roles. HLTAs, often assuming responsibilities beyond those of a typical teaching assistant, are instrumental in bolstering both teaching and learning.
Learning Support Assistant Vacancies
Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) form a key part of the educational infrastructure, providing customized support to students. Newham Learning & Skills, a local authority, for example, is recruiting Additional Learning Support Assistants for 18 hours per week during school term time. The salary for these roles ranges from £27,030 to £27,438 per annum pro-rata.
With a closing date for applications on 21st July 2024, these positions provide a structured yet flexible work environment, perfect for those looking to make a meaningful impact while maintaining a balanced schedule.
Teaching Assistant Apprenticeships
Teaching assistant apprenticeships offer a gateway into the education sector, blending hands-on experience with formal training. These apprenticeships involve supporting teachers and assisting children with reading, writing, and various learning activities. To start, candidates typically need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including English and maths.
Enhanced background checks are also a standard entry requirement for these roles, in addition to their own entry requirements. Assistant apprenticeship programs provide an excellent opportunity for professional development, equipping participants with valuable skills and experience.
Teaching Assistant Roles in Free Schools
Teaching assistants in free schools enjoy unique opportunities, including:
Flexibility in their schedule
Diverse responsibilities
Term-time only work, providing a predictable schedule
Pay scales that may vary, with salaries typically pro-rated based on term-time working patterns.
These roles involve:
Close collaboration with teachers
Supporting lesson planning
Student assessments
Supervising extracurricular activities and school trips
This holistic approach ensures a dynamic and engaging work environment.
Application Process for Teaching Assistant Jobs
Navigating the application process for teaching assistant jobs requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here are some steps to follow:
Research schools and educational institutions where you’d like to work.
Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills.
Gather necessary documents such as references, certifications, and identification.
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of success in the application process.
Submit your application through the designated platform or online portal, and follow up to express continued interest. A successful interview requires thorough preparation, including reviewing common questions and rehearsing your responses.
Professional Development and Training
For teaching assistants to maintain their efficacy, ongoing professional development (CPD) is indispensable. CPD training helps teaching assistants stay updated with the latest teaching methods and legislation. Engaging in these opportunities enhances skills, qualifications, and experience, contributing to overall competency.
CPD activities can range from:
attending seminars
reading journals
engaging in mentoring
completing e-learning courses
Organizations like the National Association of Professional Teaching Assistants (NAPTA) offer resources and support for performance management and continuous professional development.
Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant Jobs
SEN Teaching Assistants are key in aiding pupils with Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND). They have several responsibilities, including:
Helping plan lessons
Supervising pupils
Ensuring pupils can access learning activities
Promoting inclusion and acceptance
Ensuring equal access to learning
These responsibilities are crucial in providing ongoing support and teaching support for the educational needs of students with SEND.
Key skills for SEN teaching assistants include active listening skills patience, understanding child development, and knowledge of teaching methods suitable for SEND pupils.
Building a trusting relationship with pupils and communicating effectively are critical interpersonal skills to success in these roles.
Youth Work and Teaching Assistant Roles
For aspiring teaching assistants, experience in youth work is of immense value. It helps develop the ability to manage challenging behaviors, a crucial skill for teaching assistants. Many teaching assistant positions specifically seek candidates with this experience.
Youth work experience equips individuals with the skills to build rapport with students, manage classroom dynamics, and support children’s educational journeys effectively throughout the academic year.
Summary
In summary, the teaching assistant landscape in 2024 offers a multitude of opportunities across various settings. From SEN roles and primary school positions to graduate opportunities and higher-level roles, there is something for everyone passionate about education.
We encourage you to explore these opportunities and take the necessary steps to embark on a fulfilling career as a teaching assistant. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards of making a positive impact on students’ lives are immeasurable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need for a teaching assistant apprenticeship?
To qualify for a teaching assistant apprenticeship, you will typically need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including English and maths.
What is the average salary for a Higher Level Teaching Assistant?
The average salary for a Higher Level Teaching Assistant is approximately £24,700 per year.
How do I apply for a teaching assistant job?
To apply for a teaching assistant job, research schools, customize your resume and cover letter, submit your application through the designated platform, and prepare for the interview. Good luck!
Are there professional development opportunities for teaching assistants?
Yes, professional development opportunities such as CPD courses and resources from organizations like NAPTA can enhance teaching assistant skills and qualifications.
What skills are essential for SEN Teaching Assistants?
SEN teaching assistants need essential skills such as active listening, patience, understanding child development, and knowledge of teaching methods suitable for SEND pupils. These skills are crucial for effectively supporting special educational needs students in the classroom.
