Becoming a Teaching Assistant (TA) has become one of the most rewarding and respected roles in UK schools. TAs play a crucial part in helping students learn, supporting teachers in the classroom, and providing one-on-one assistance to those who need extra help. Whether you’re looking to start a new career, re-enter the workforce, or find flexible work in the education sector, a teaching assistant role offers stability and meaning, especially for adults balancing work, family, or other commitments.
At Oxfordian College, we offer flexible, online learning opportunities to help you become a qualified teaching assistant. Our courses are designed to give you the skills and knowledge needed to step into this fulfilling role without the constraints of traditional study. If you’re ready to make a difference in children’s education, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about teaching assistant courses in the UK, requirements, career opportunities, and how to enrol with Oxfordian College.
Why Teaching Assistant Roles Are Growing in the UK
The demand for teaching assistants continues to increase across the UK for several important reasons:
- Larger classroom sizes: More students mean more support is needed.
- Inclusion policies: With an increased focus on SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), schools require qualified TAs to help meet diverse learning needs.
- Teacher workload: Teachers need additional support to manage both academic and behavioural challenges.
- More working parents: As more parents return to work, there’s greater demand for structured schooling with adequate support.
- Government-funded programs: Many schools are receiving funding to hire trained staff to support learning and development.
If you love working with children and are looking for a stable and fulfilling role, becoming a teaching assistant is a great career choice.
What Does a Teaching Assistant Do?
Teaching assistants have a wide variety of responsibilities depending on the school, age group, and specific class needs. Some of the common tasks include:
- Supporting students with reading, writing, and numeracy
- Assisting children with additional learning needs
- Helping teachers with lesson preparation
- Providing one-on-one support to students
- Managing classroom behaviour and discipline
- Supervising students during breaks, trips, and activities
- Creating a supportive learning environment
TAs also have the opportunity to specialise in roles such as:
- SEND support (working with children who have special educational needs)
- Behaviour mentoring
- Speech and language assistance
- Intervention groups for extra academic help
It’s a hands-on, rewarding job that allows you to make a significant difference in the lives of students.
Who Is the Teaching Assistant Course Suitable For?
Oxfordian College’s teaching assistant courses are ideal for:
- Adults looking for a new career in education
- Parents who want to work during school hours
- Individuals seeking a stable, long-term career with growth potential
- Career changers who want to do meaningful work
- International learners seeking a recognised UK qualification
- Those interested in supporting students with special needs or behavioural challenges
No prior teaching experience is required, just a passion for helping children succeed.
Entry Requirements for Teaching Assistant Courses
Becoming a teaching assistant doesn’t require a degree. Most people start by completing an accredited course that equips them with the skills and knowledge needed to work in schools. Typical entry requirements include:
- Good written and spoken English
- A genuine interest in education and supporting children
- Basic IT skills (for online learning)
- A willingness to work with children
- Access to a school for practical assessment (in some cases)
At Oxfordian College, our flexible online courses are particularly beneficial as they don’t require you to attend physical classes or follow rigid timetables.
Why Study a Teaching Assistant Course Online?
Online learning is perfect for adults who need flexibility. At Oxfordian College, you can:
- Learn from home: Study at your own pace, from the comfort of your home.
- Fit learning around your schedule: Study whenever it fits around your work, childcare, or other commitments.
- Avoid commuting or classroom attendance: No need to travel to a physical location, saving you time and money.
- Gain a recognised qualification: Our courses are accredited and recognised by UK awarding bodies.
- Progress smoothly into work: Once you complete your course, you’ll be ready to start your new career or progress into further study.
The flexibility of online learning means you can begin your training without disrupting your daily life, and you can pursue your studies while managing other responsibilities.
Teaching Assistant Qualifications at Oxfordian College
Oxfordian College provides structured, flexible pathways to help you gain the skills needed for work in UK schools. Our teaching assistant courses typically begin with a Level 3 qualification, which covers essential topics like:
- Supporting teaching and learning
- Safeguarding children
- Understanding child development
- Classroom behaviour management
- Special educational needs (SEND)
- Promoting equality and inclusion
- Supporting literacy and numeracy
These qualifications give you the practical knowledge that schools expect from new teaching assistants, setting you up for success in the classroom.
Skills You Gain from a Teaching Assistant Course
While academic knowledge is important, our courses also help you develop essential professional skills, including:
- Communication and listening: The ability to effectively communicate with students and staff.
- Patience and empathy: Crucial qualities when working with children.
- Behaviour management: Helping to maintain a positive and productive learning environment.
- Organisational skills: Planning and assisting with lessons, activities, and classroom duties.
- Confidence in supporting students: Both in groups and individually.
- Understanding safeguarding: Knowing how to protect and support vulnerable students.
These skills are highly transferable across different age groups, from early years to secondary schools.
Career Progression Opportunities
A teaching assistant qualification can open the door to a wide range of career options. After completing a TA course, you can progress into roles such as:
- Senior Teaching Assistant
- Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
- SEND Specialist TA
- Behaviour Mentor
- Learning Support Practitioner
- Pastoral Support Worker
- Cover Supervisor
With experience and further qualifications, many TAs go on to pursue:
- Teacher training
- Level 5 Diploma in Training
- School administration or leadership roles
Teaching assistant roles offer excellent career progression, with plenty of opportunities to grow and take on more responsibility within the education sector.
How Much Can Teaching Assistants Earn in the UK?
Salaries for teaching assistants vary depending on experience, location, and the specific role. However, typical earnings are as follows:
- £18,000–£23,000 per year for general classroom support
- £22,000–£27,000 per year for SEN support roles
- £25,000–£32,000 per year for Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTA)
There are also flexible and part-time positions available for those who prefer fewer working hours.
Why Choose Oxfordian College for Your Teaching Assistant Course?
Oxfordian College is a leading choice for adults looking to become teaching assistants. Our courses are:
- Flexible: Study at your own pace, anytime, anywhere.
- Affordable: We offer low-cost online degrees with flexible payment plans to make education accessible for everyone.
- Career-focused: The course content is tailored to match the real needs of UK schools.
- Recognised: Our qualifications are accredited by UK-recognised awarding bodies.
- Supportive: We provide ongoing support from tutors and academic staff to help you succeed.
Our courses are designed with adults in mind, making it easy to balance your studies with work, family, and other commitments.
How to Enrol in a Teaching Assistant Course at Oxfordian College
Enrolling is easy and convenient. Here’s how to get started:
- Choose your course: Pick the teaching assistant course that best suits your goals.
- Register online: Complete the online registration form.
- Select a payment plan: Choose whether to pay upfront or in instalments.
- Access your student portal: You’ll receive login details immediately.
- Start studying: Begin your course at your own pace, with no pressure or fixed schedules.
Becoming a teaching assistant is a fulfilling career choice that allows you to make a real difference in children’s lives. With Oxfordian College’s flexible online courses, you can gain the qualifications you need without disrupting your life. Whether you’re entering the education sector, returning to work, or simply want a rewarding career, our teaching assistant course is a great place to start.
Join Oxfordian College and take the first step toward a meaningful and successful career as a teaching assistant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are affordable online degrees recognised by employers?
Yes! Oxfordian College’s qualifications are accredited and widely accepted by employers in the UK.
Can I study while working full-time?
Absolutely! Our courses are designed for busy adults, allowing you to study at your own pace.
Are these degrees affordable?
Yes! Compared to traditional routes, our online degrees are a low-cost option that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Do I need previous qualifications to enrol?
Not necessarily. Most of our courses accept learners with basic educational backgrounds or relevant work experience.
Can international students study online with Oxfordian College?
Yes! Our online courses are accessible to students around the world.
Are there payment plans available?
Yes! We offer flexible instalment options to make tuition more manageable.