Looking for vacancies for teaching assistant positions? This guide highlights the latest teaching assistant roles available, from primary schools to specialized SEN positions. We emphasize our commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive educational environment. Various departments play a crucial role in supporting teaching assistants and facilitating their professional development. 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.
Introduction to the Role
The role of a teaching assistant is a vital one, providing support to teachers and pupils in a variety of educational settings. Teaching assistants, also known as learning support assistants or SEN teaching assistants, play a crucial part in ensuring that students receive the best possible education. As a teaching assistant, you will be responsible for supporting teaching and learning, as well as providing individualized support to students with special educational needs. If you are passionate about education and have a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of young people, then a career as a teaching assistant could be the perfect fit for you.
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 £23,000, and can earn up to £30,000 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 2025 and in Hammersmith, as well as roles with deadlines in July 2024, showcasing the diverse range of openings.
For instance, a teaching assistant role in Roehampton, Wandsworth offers a competitive monthly salary ranging from £1750 to £2150. The diverse roles accommodate a range of interests and specializations, guaranteeing options for all. Working with students in small groups, particularly those with special educational needs, can significantly enhance their learning experience.
SEN Teaching Assistant Roles
Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching assistants are fundamental in assisting students with distinct learning requirements. Having supervisory or management experience within an early years and childcare setting is particularly valuable for these roles. In Westminster, a full-time SEN teaching assistant role offers a daily salary between £95 and £110. Similarly, Wandsworth offers a position with a pay rate of £90-£95 per day, while another vacancy in Lewisham focuses on ASD and behavior support. Additionally, a Special Needs Teaching Assistant position is available at a multicultural school in Hillingdon with a daily pay of £95.
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. Schools typically expect candidates to have a minimum of GCSE grade 4/C or equivalent in subjects like maths and English. Here are some available positions:
- Hackney: starting in September 2025
- 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. University education plays a crucial role in these opportunities, with institutions like UCL (University College London) being highly regarded in the QS World University Rankings by Subject for Architecture and Built Environment. 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 £25,000 per year
- Entry-level positions start at around £23,000
- Experienced HLTAs can earn up to £30,000 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 £28,000 to £28,500 per annum pro-rata.
With a closing date for applications on 21st July 2025, these positions provide a structured yet flexible work environment, perfect for those looking to make a meaningful impact while maintaining a balanced schedule. A successful candidate will play a crucial role in assisting students with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, collaborating with teaching staff and external professionals to create individualized support strategies that foster student development and positive behaviors.
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. Schools are particularly interested in candidates who can integrate their personal interests and hobbies into activities, thereby enhancing the engagement and support provided to pupils. 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.
Experience in youth work can be particularly beneficial for those aspiring to become teaching assistants in free schools, as it provides useful skills and understanding for working with children and young people.
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.
Required Skills and Qualifications
To be successful as a teaching assistant, you will need to possess a range of skills and qualifications. These include excellent communication and interpersonal skills, patience, and active listening skills. You will also need to have a good understanding of supporting teaching and learning, as well as the ability to build rapport with students and teachers. In terms of qualifications, many teaching assistants hold a Level 2 or 3 certificate in supporting teaching and learning, although this is not always a requirement. Some teaching assistants may also choose to pursue an assistant apprenticeship or other professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge.
Benefits and Opportunities
As a teaching assistant, you can expect to receive a range of benefits and opportunities. These may include ongoing support and training, as well as the opportunity to work in a variety of educational settings, such as primary schools, free schools, and special educational needs units. You will also have the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of students and to be part of a dynamic and supportive team. In addition, many schools and educational institutions offer competitive salaries and benefits packages, as well as opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
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.
Interview Preparation and Tips
If you are applying for a teaching assistant job, it is essential to be well-prepared for your interview. This includes researching the school and the role, as well as practicing your responses to common interview questions. You should also be prepared to provide examples of your experience and skills, such as your ability to support children with special educational needs or your experience of working in a team. Additionally, be sure to review the job description and person specification carefully, and be prepared to explain why you are the ideal candidate for the role.
Salary and Benefits
The salary and benefits for teaching assistants can vary depending on the school, location, and level of experience. However, as a general guide, teaching assistants can expect to earn a competitive salary, as well as receive a range of benefits, such as paid holiday time, pension schemes, and opportunities for professional development. Some schools may also offer additional benefits, such as childcare vouchers or employee assistance programs. It is essential to check the job description and discuss the salary and benefits package with the employer during the application process to ensure that you have a clear understanding of what is on offer.
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 students is essential, as it encourages a supportive and nurturing learning environment. SEN teaching assistants often work closely with external agencies and parents to ensure that the specific needs of each child are met effectively. As the academic year progresses, these assistants play a pivotal role in adapting teaching methods to accommodate individual learning styles, ensuring that all pupils can thrive academically and socially within the school community.
