Teaching Assistant

Teaching Assistant

Main purpose

Work with class teachers to raise the learning and attainment of pupils

Work with therapeutic staff to support the therapeutic needs of pupils

Promote pupils’ independence, self-esteem and social inclusion

Give support to pupils, individually or in groups, so they can access the curriculum, take part in learning and experience a sense of achievement

Duties and responsibilities

Teaching and learning

Demonstrate an informed and efficient approach to teaching and learning by adopting relevant strategies to support the work of the teacher and increase achievement of all pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

Promote, support and facilitate inclusion by encouraging participation of all pupils in learning and extracurricular activities

Use effective behaviour management strategies consistently in line with the school’s policy and procedures

Support class teachers with maintaining good order and discipline among pupils, managing behaviour effectively to ensure a good and safe learning environment

Organise and manage teaching space and resources to help maintain a stimulating and safe learning environment

Observe pupil performance and pass observations on to the class teacher

Supervise a class if the teacher is temporarily unavailable

Use ICT skills to advance pupils’ learning

Undertake any other relevant duties given by the class teacher

To supervise students on trips, visits and other out of school activities as directed.

To provide support at appropriate levels according to the students’ Individual Education Plan (IEP) targets

Planning

Contribute to effective assessment and planning by supporting the monitoring, recording and reporting of pupil performance and progress as appropriate to the level of the role

Read and understand lesson plans shared before lessons, if available

Prepare the classroom for lessons

Use their area(s) of expertise to contribute to the planning and preparation of learning activities, and to plan their role in learning activities

Devise structured activities that interest and motivate learners and advance their learning

Plan how they will support the inclusion of pupils in the learning activities

Working with colleagues and other relevant professionals

Communicate effectively with other staff members and pupils, and with parents and carers under the direction of the class teacher

Communicate their knowledge and understanding of pupils to other school staff and education, health and social care professionals, so that informed decision making can take place on intervention and provision

With the class teacher, keep other professionals accurately informed of performance and progress or concerns they may have about the pupils they work with

Understand their role in order to be able to work collaboratively with classroom teachers and other colleagues, including specialist advisory teachers

Collaborate and work with colleagues and other relevant professionals within and beyond the school

Develop effective professional relationships with colleagues