What Is The Average Teaching Assistant Salary In The UK?

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London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – salary for a teaching assistant in the UK can vary depending on many factors. It includes location, level of experience, and the type of school they are working in. As of September 2021, the national minimum wage for an apprentice in the UK is £4.30 per hour. However, the rate of pay for a teaching assistant may be higher than this. In general, teaching assistants working in primary schools tend to earn slightly less than those in secondary schools or special schools.

What Is The Average Salary For A Teaching Assistant in The UK?

According to the National Careers Service, the average salary for a teaching assistant is around £15,000 to £20,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the region, level of experience, and type of school. It also depends on whether the position is full-time or part-time, and whether it is permanent or temporary.

What Is The Highest Salary For A Teaching Assistant In The UK?

The highest teaching assistant salary in the UK can vary depending on several factors. Generally, the highest-paid teaching assistants are those with several years of experience and advanced qualifications.  Moreover, they are working in higher education institutions or private schools.

According to the National Education Union, the pay scale for teaching assistants in England and Wales ranges from £13,000 to £19,000. It is the per year salary for those on term-time contracts. However, those in higher-level teaching assistant roles or with additional responsibilities can earn up to £25,000 per year.

In Scotland, the pay scale for teaching assistants ranges from £18,000 to £28,000 per year. While in Northern Ireland, the pay scale ranges from £17,000 to £24,000 per year. It is important to note that these are just general figures, and the actual salary of a teaching assistant can vary.  It depends on the experience, qualifications, and location of the assistant.

What Is The Median Salary For A Teaching Assistant In The UK?

The salary of a teaching assistant is available on the website of the UK government’s Department for Education. Usually, the median salary for a teaching assistant in the UK is approximately £17,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and qualifications. Some teaching assistants may earn more than this.

It is particularly those with specialized skills or experience in certain areas, while others may earn less. You need to know that the salaries for teaching assistants can also vary depending on the type of school or education setting they work in. Many independent schools and special educational needs (SEN) schools pay higher salaries than others.

How To Become A Teaching Assistant In The UK?

Do you want to become a teaching assistant in the UK? Here are some steps that you need to follow:

1. Obtain the Necessary Qualifications

There are no specific qualifications required to become a Teaching Assistant. You must have a relevant qualification such as a Level 2 or Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools. Or a Level 3 Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools can be beneficial.

2. Gain Experience

Experience working with children or young people can help you in your role as a Teaching Assistant. You can gain experience through volunteering or working as a support worker.

3. Apply for Jobs

 You can apply for Teaching Assistant jobs directly with schools or through recruitment agencies. Look for job vacancies on school websites, job boards, and recruitment agencies.

4. Attend Interviews

You may be invited for an interview, where you will need to demonstrate your understanding of the role. Moreover, you need to know your suitability for the position.

5. Complete Safeguarding and Other Relevant Training

 As a Teaching Assistant, you will need to undergo safeguarding training. It will help you understand how to keep children safe in school. You may also need to complete other relevant training, such as first aid or health and safety.

6. Get Started

 Once you have secured a job as a Teaching Assistant, you will need to work closely with the teacher. It is to support the pupils in their learning. This could involve helping with lesson planning, and preparing resources.

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What Are The Working Hours For A Teaching Assistant?

The working hours for a teaching assistant can vary depending on the specific job requirements. It includes the level of education, term time and the school or institution they are working for. In general, teaching assistants are expected to work during regular school hours. It can typically range from 8 am to 4 pm or 9am to 5 pm, depending on the school or institution.

Beth Malcolm

Beth Malcolm is Scottish based Journalist at Heriot-Watt University studying French and British Sign Language. She is originally from the north west of England but is living in Edinburgh to complete her studies.