Teaching Assistant Jobs London and What a Typical Day Looks Like

What Is It Like to Work as a Teaching Assistant in London?

If you’re searching for Teaching Assistant jobs London, you’re likely wondering: What exactly does the job involve, and is it the right fit for me? A Teaching Assistant (TA) plays a critical role in classrooms, offering support to teachers, helping children with individualised learning, and building a safe, structured learning environment. Whether you’re working in a primary school, supporting SEN children, or assisting with speech and language therapy, no two days are alike.

The job is very rewarding, especially when you see a child go from confusion to confidence. Many TAs describe it as the perfect blend of child-centred learning and real progress you can see every day. If you’re considering TA jobs in London, this guide offers a full breakdown: from job types to qualifications, salary expectations to the actual daily schedule.

Table: Quick Snapshot of Teaching Assistant Roles in London

Understanding the Core Role of a Teaching Assistant

A Teaching Assistant is not just a helper in the classroom; they are often the difference between a child falling behind and keeping up with the class. Their job includes everything from guiding reading groups to managing challenging behaviour and even offering verbal development exercises or homework help.

The work is hands-on, responsive, and often deeply fulfilling. In London, the demand for Classroom Assistants, Federation Teaching Assistants, and Higher Level Teaching Assistants has been growing not only in state schools but also in academies and private schools.

Many TA roles in London also serve as a gateway into teaching, speech and language therapy, or child psychology. For graduates of education studies or professionals switching careers, it’s a highly respected starting point in the education sector.

Types of Teaching Assistant Jobs London Has to Offer

Graduate Teaching Assistant: A Foot in the Door to Teaching Careers

Graduate Teaching Assistant jobs in London are ideal for those who have recently completed a university degree, particularly in education studies, psychology, or child development. These roles often involve:

• Grading papers
  
• Supporting guided lessons
  
• Helping with classroom behaviour
  
• Running discussion groups
  

Such roles offer excellent career progression into teaching, especially if you’re planning to pursue a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education). Many university graduate jobs in education begin here.

Primary Teaching Assistant: The Heart of Early Years Education

Primary Teaching Assistants are embedded within the early learning environment. You may work one-to-one with a Year 3 or Year 5 child or provide general classroom support across a wide group.

A typical day might include:

• Morning phonics and spelling groups
  
• Helping with creative writing
  
• Supporting a child with verbal delays
  
• Managing break time and transitions
  

The job allows you to apply child-centred approaches and see tangible growth in your students.

Higher Level Teaching Assistant: A Step Above

The Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) role offers more responsibility and often involves:

• Leading small group sessions without a teacher present
  
• Assisting with lesson planning
  
• Conducting assessments and progress reports
  

Many full-time TA roles evolve into HLTA jobs once experience is gained. If you’re looking for TA career progression, this is a strong path.

Classroom Assistant: Entry-Level With Real Impact

A Classroom Assistant role is perfect if you’re exploring entry-level school jobs. You’ll help with:

• Marking essays
  
• Handing out classroom materials
  
• Supervising during field trips
  
• Providing emotional support for students
  

No teaching qualification is strictly needed, but experience in childcare, babysitting, or even being a scout leader can boost your application.

Federation Teaching Assistant: Working Across Multiple Schools

Federation Teaching Assistants often serve across multiple schools within the same educational trust. These professionals experience a variety of school cultures and classroom styles, ideal for those looking to broaden their pedagogical skills.

You may be asked to:

• Cover lessons in different buildings
  
• Join special education sessions.
  
• Offer individualised education support where needed.

Daily Responsibilities: What Does a Teaching Assistant Do?

Let’s walk through a typical day in the life of a TA, based on real insights from London-based Teaching Assistants.

Morning Duties (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

• 8:00 AM: Arrive and prep the classroom. Review lesson plans with the teacher.
  
• 8:45 AM: Greet students, settle them in, and assist with the register.
  
• 9:00 AM: Support one-to-one English work for a Year 5 student with learning needs.
  
• 10:00 AM: Short break may involve a quick game of football or a walk with an SEN student.
  
• 10:30 AM: Conduct guided reading with a small group.
  
• 11:30 AM: Support in maths class, often using visual aids or tactile learning methods.

Afternoon Duties (12:00 PM – 3:30 PM)

• 12:00 PM: Lunch break, sometimes supervising students during play.
  
• 1:00 PM: Conduct a speech and language therapy group for verbal development.
  
• 2:00 PM: One-on-one reading with a Year 3 child needing additional support.
  
• 3:00 PM: Assist with end-of-day wrap-up and preparation for dismissal.

Key Skills Every Teaching Assistant Needs

To thrive in a Teaching Assistant job in London, you’ll need more than just patience. Essential skills include:

• Strong communication
  
• Emotional intelligence
  
• Adaptability
  
• Understanding of SEN
  
• Team collaboration
  
• Student engagement tactics
  
• Ability to manage challenging behaviour
  

Many TAs mention developing patience and interpersonal skills that translate well into careers like child psychology, speech therapy, or teaching.

Entry Paths: Do You Need Qualifications to Be a TA?

One of the best parts of TA jobs in London is the flexibility in entry routes. While formal qualifications help, they’re not always necessary.

You may start with:

• A degree in education studies, childcare, or psychology
  
• Level 2 or 3 certificates in supporting teaching and learning
  
• On-the-job training, if working via a Teaching Assistant agency
  

If you’re wondering, “Do I need qualifications to be a TA?” the answer is: not always. Experience, attitude, and a passion for working with children matter just as much.

Teaching Assistant Salary in London: What to Expect

When exploring Teaching Assistant jobs London, one of the most common questions is about salary. The pay scale varies based on experience, type of school, and responsibilities.

On average:

• Entry-level Teaching Assistants earn between £75–£95 per day
  
• Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTA) can earn up to £110–£130 per day.
  
• Full-time TA roles in London typically offer £18,000–£24,000 per annum.
  
• Special educational needs (SEN) roles or those requiring speech and language support training may pay more.
  

Additional pay can include:

• Holiday pay (if you’re on a contract)
  
• Bonuses for covering lessons
  
• Training stipends from local authorities
  

Your salary can also vary by borough. For instance, Teaching Assistant jobs in East London may offer different rates than central London schools due to funding and local pay policies.

Full-Time vs Part-Time Teaching Assistant Jobs in London

Many ask, “Are TA roles full-time or part-time?” The answer: both options are widely available.

Full-Time TA Roles

• Standard working hours (8 AM – 4 PM)
  
• Consistent support for one class or pupil
  
• Better for those seeking structure, progression, or longer contracts
  
• Suitable for applicants aiming to become a qualified teacher or pursue educational qualifications
  

Part-Time TA Roles

• Ideal for students, parents, or career-switchers
  
• Flexible contracts (2–3 days per week or half-day roles)
  
• Often found in primary school settings or through teaching agencies.
  
• May include morning-only classroom support, reading groups, or SEN sessions
  

Searches like “Teaching Assistant jobs London part-time” have grown because of this flexibility. You can work around personal responsibilities while still contributing to the learning environment.

Can You Get Teaching Assistant Jobs in London with No Experience?

Yes, it’s entirely possible to secure Teaching Assistant jobs in London with no experience.

Here’s how to improve your chances:

• Volunteer in a local school to build references
  
• Complete a Level 2 TA certificate or a short child development course.
  
• Highlight transferable skills (babysitting, tutoring, childcare, group leadership)
  
• Apply via Teaching Assistant agencies in London that offer beginner placements.
  
• Emphasise soft skills: communication, patience, teamwork.
  

There are many entry-level education jobs for graduates and career changers, especially in boroughs where staffing is urgently needed. Some ads specifically state: “Teaching Assistant jobs London, no experience needed.”

Is Becoming a Teaching Assistant Worth It?

Many candidates wonder if this role provides real value. The answer lies in what you’re looking for.

You’ll gain:

• A clear understanding of student management systems
  
• Practical classroom support experience
  
• Strong foundations in inclusive education
  
• Deep insight into child-centred approaches and pedagogy
  
• Exposure to individualised learning and emotional development

Those planning to pursue PGCE, speech therapy, or child psychology often use the TA role as their launchpad. It’s one of the most trusted and accessible university careers in education.

Many say they were “inspired by the children”, especially when they saw the difference they made in a student’s progress, whether that was helping a pupil with language development, improving reading fluency, or encouraging confidence in maths.

How much do Teaching Assistants make in London?

Pay varies by borough and role type. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

Career Pathways After Working as a TA

A TA role can lead to many specialised education careers:

• Speech and language therapist
  
• Qualified teacher via PGCE or School Direct
  
• SEN specialist
  
• Education consultant
  
• Learning support coordinator
  

The most successful TAs invest in training requirements, attend workshops, and build up their childcare experience portfolio.

Many mention stories like, “I taught a student a new word, and two years later he still remembered it.” These moments build confidence for both the pupil and the TA.

Final Thoughts: 

London continues to offer some of the most diverse and dynamic opportunities for Teaching Assistants in the UK. Whether you’re applying for a part-time TA job in East London, starting with no experience, or ready to step into a full-time HLTA role, there’s a position that fits your goals.

With schools prioritising inclusive education, child-led learning, and emotional support, the value of Teaching Assistants has never been clearer. You won’t just be another adult in the room; you’ll be the reason a child keeps trying, keeps growing, and begins to believe in their ability.

If you’re ready to start or switch careers, Teaching Assistant jobs London offer a powerful first step. It’s not just a job, it’s a daily opportunity to help students succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to become a Teaching Assistant in the UK?

You don’t always need a formal teaching degree. Most start with:

• A GCSE in English and Maths
  
• A Level 2 or Level 3 Supporting Teaching & Learning qualification
  
• Voluntary experience or TA internships
  
• Applying via a school support staff network
  

If you’re aiming for specific boroughs, look up “Teaching Assistant jobs near me” or target school websites directly.

What skills does a Teaching Assistant need?

Core skills include:

• Patience and empathy
  
• Communication with parents and staff
  
• Managing challenging behaviour
  
• Understanding of learning environments
  
• Confidence to lead small groups or assist in guided reading
  

Interpersonal skills and flexibility matter just as much as formal training.

Can I become a Speech and Language Therapist after being a TA?

Yes. Many TAs working in verbal development or speech support roles pursue a Master’s in Speech and Language Therapy. This transition is common for TAs with SEN experience or those supporting children with communication delays.

What is a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)?

An HLTA is a more senior TA role. Responsibilities may include:

• Running classes without a teacher present
  
• Planning parts of lessons
  
• Providing one-to-one learning for children with complex needs
  
• Supporting Year 3 to Year 6 transition periods
  

You typically need a Level 4 HLTA qualification and at least two years’ TA experience.