The Unqualified Teaching Assistant role featured offers a competitive wage of £13.68 per hour in a full-time, long-term position. No experience or specific credentials are required, making it accessible for those seeking a career start in education. This position is all about supporting children with special educational needs, and it welcomes applicants who display patience, resilience, and a willingness to learn.

What You’ll Do Every Day

Day-to-day, you’ll work alongside teaching staff and aid children both academically and emotionally. Key responsibilities include supporting pupils with their lessons, helping to manage classroom behaviour, and working closely with those with additional learning needs. You’ll be collaborating as part of an inclusive team, adapting to various situations as they arise, and ensuring every pupil under your care feels supported and empowered.

Expect to rotate between different schools or year groups, allowing you to gain experience across various educational settings. While the role is flexible, working on-site is necessary, and there’s no option for home-based work.

Advantages of This Role

A major advantage is the flexible scheduling, which helps you balance life and work. If you are curious about a career in education but don’t want to commit to a full teaching degree just yet, this position is ideal. The agency offers regular professional development opportunities, equipping you with skills and experience for future roles. You’ll be part of a dedicated, supportive team eager to help new teaching assistants thrive. Additionally, daily rates are paid using the PAYE system, ensuring financial transparency and security.

Drawbacks to Consider

There are a few cons to keep in mind. For starters, this role comes with no option for remote work; physical attendance is required at all times. The job can also be emotionally demanding, particularly when working with children who have complex emotional or behavioural needs. Adapting quickly and maintaining patience in challenging moments is essential, as the school environment can be fast-paced and unpredictable. Not everyone may be comfortable with such levels of responsibility without prior experience, so a strong support team is essential.

Independent Verdict

The Unqualified Teaching Assistant position is well-suited for individuals looking for meaningful work without formal teaching experience. It’s a solid step for those seeking entry to the education sector and wishing to build skills with exceptional on-the-job support. The flexible working pattern and continuous training make this a compelling opportunity. However, resilience, adaptability, and a genuine passion for helping children are vital. If you meet those qualities, this could be a truly rewarding move for your next career step.