How to Become a Teaching Assistant with No Experience in 2025

Ever thought about working in a school but don’t know where to start? Becoming a teaching assistant (TA) can be the perfect way to step into the world of education—even if you have no prior experience. Teaching assistants play a key role in supporting classroom teachers, helping students with learning activities, and creating a positive school environment. The best part? You don’t necessarily need formal experience to get started. With the right mindset, a few practical steps, and a bit of determination, you can be well on your way to starting this rewarding career.

Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can understand exactly what to do and what to expect on your journey to becoming a teaching assistant with no experience.

“According to a study by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) (2021), effective use of teaching assistants can improve student outcomes, especially when they are well-trained and deployed to deliver structured interventions.”

How Can I Become a Teaching Assistant Without Experience?

So, you’re starting from scratch—no classroom experience, no teaching certificate, maybe even no idea where to begin. That’s okay! Many teaching assistants begin their careers with little or no experience in education. Schools often look for candidates with a positive attitude, a passion for helping children, and a willingness to learn.

Here’s the truth: enthusiasm and effort can outweigh experience in many cases. Schools value individuals who are reliable, empathetic, and flexible. If you show that you’re genuinely interested in supporting teachers and students, many schools will happily give you a chance.

Now, let’s dive into the exact steps you can take to become a TA even if you’re brand new to the field.

Get DBS Checked

If you’re serious about working in a school, your first step should be getting a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. This background check is essential for anyone working with children or vulnerable individuals in the UK. Without it, schools can’t legally hire you.

Why is it important?

The DBS check helps ensure that children are kept safe from potential harm. Even for volunteer roles, most schools will require a valid DBS certificate. It’s a sign that you’re ready to work around children and can be trusted with that responsibility.

How to get it:

Some schools or organizations will help you get one once you apply to them.
You can also apply through an umbrella body if you’re looking to get a DBS in advance.

Cost:

A standard or enhanced DBS check typically costs between £18 and £40.
Volunteers may be eligible for a free check.

By securing your DBS early, you’re signaling to potential employers that you’re serious about entering the field. It also speeds up the hiring process, making you a more attractive candidate.

Apply for Teaching Assistant Roles

Once your DBS is sorted, it’s time to start applying. You don’t need a mile-long CV to get noticed. Many entry-level TA positions are open to individuals without direct teaching experience. What employers really want to see is your attitude, passion, and transferable skills.

Where to apply:

School websites (check their vacancies pages)
Local council job boards
National job sites like Indeed, Reed, and Tes
Educational recruitment agencies

What to include in your application:

A well-crafted CV tailored to education (we’ll cover this more later)
A compelling cover letter explaining why you want to work with children
Any related experience, such as babysitting, mentoring, or helping with youth groups

Even if you don’t meet every requirement in a job listing, apply anyway. Many schools are willing to train the right person if they see potential.

Entry-Level Positions

When starting out, aim for entry-level TA roles. These positions are designed for those without experience and often come with on-the-job training. Titles to look out for include:

Classroom Assistant
Learning Support Assistant
SEN Support Worker
Early Years Assistant

These roles usually involve:

Supporting students one-on-one or in small groups
Helping with classroom activities
Supervising during break or lunch times
Preparing learning materials

Tip: Don’t be afraid to start small. Even a part-time or temporary contract can be a stepping stone to a full-time permanent role. Focus on gaining as much practical experience as possible—every little bit helps build your CV.

Volunteer Work

Volunteering is a fantastic way to get your foot in the door. Schools often welcome volunteers, especially those eager to help in the classroom. While you won’t be paid, the experience you gain is invaluable—and it often leads to paid roles later on.

Benefits of volunteering:

Gain hands-on experience
Build relationships with school staff
Get references for future applications
Learn the ropes of classroom management

How to find volunteer opportunities:

Reach out directly to local primary or secondary schools
Contact your local education authority
Check websites like Do-it.org or Reach Volunteering

A few hours a week can make a big difference. It shows you’re committed and gives you a taste of what the job involves—win-win!

Earning Qualifications

While not always essential, having relevant qualifications can boost your chances significantly. Entry-level courses provide foundational knowledge and show employers you’re invested in your development.

Popular TA qualifications include:

You can find these courses through colleges, adult learning centers, or online platforms. Some are even funded or offered part-time to fit around your schedule.

Pro tip: Start with a short, affordable online course. It can give you a quick boost and help you decide if pursuing more formal training is right for you.

Networking

Let’s be real—sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know. Networking is a powerful tool, especially in education where local schools and word-of-mouth play a big role in hiring.

How to network your way into a TA role:

Talk to people: If you have friends, family, or neighbors working in schools, ask if they know of any openings or can refer you.
Engage on social media: Join Facebook groups or LinkedIn communities for education professionals in your area.
Attend events: Local education job fairs, school open days, or training sessions are great opportunities to meet people in the field.

Follow up: If you’ve volunteered or done short-term work, keep in touch with those contacts. A thank-you email or quick check-in can go a long way.

Why networking works:

School leaders are more likely to trust recommendations from someone they know. When a headteacher hears “Sarah was amazing with the kids last week,” that could be your ticket to a job interview—even if you don’t have much experience yet.

Improve Your Computer Skills

Modern classrooms rely heavily on technology. Whether it’s using interactive whiteboards, managing online learning platforms, or helping students with computer-based assignments, being tech-savvy is a big plus.

What to focus on:

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Classroom)
School management software (e.g., SIMS in the UK)
Basic troubleshooting (printers, projectors, tablets)

Where to learn:
There are loads of free or low-cost tutorials online, including:

YouTube videos
Udemy and Coursera courses
Local adult education classes

Even if your role doesn’t require advanced computer use, these skills will make you more efficient, more helpful in the classroom, and more attractive to employers.

Enroll Now: Diploma in Education Management Level 3. Limited Seats Available!

Crafting a Strong CV for Teaching Assistant Roles

Your CV is your golden ticket—it’s your first impression, and it needs to stand out. Even if you have no TA experience, you can still create a compelling CV that shows you’re the right fit.

Key elements of a strong TA CV:

Personal statement: A short, punchy summary of who you are, your goals, and why you want to work in education.
Skills section: Highlight transferable skills like communication, teamwork, organization, patience, and creativity.
Experience section: Include any relevant experience—even informal ones like babysitting, coaching, volunteering, or mentoring.
Education and qualifications: List your academic background and any training or certifications related to education or child care.
References: If possible, include one from a school or someone who has seen you work with children.

Tips for writing your CV:

Keep it clear, concise, and no longer than two pages.
Tailor it for each application—use keywords from the job ad.
Use action verbs like “supported,” “assisted,” “planned,” and “motivated.”
Include a brief cover letter explaining why you’re passionate about the role.

“According to a study published in the International Journal of Business and Management (2015), well-structured CVs significantly influence the recruitment decision, with employers spending an average of just 6–8 seconds initially scanning a CV before making a judgment.”

What to Expect If You Want to Be a Teaching Assistant

Stepping into a TA role can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s also demanding. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare for the realities of the job and avoid surprises down the line.

A day in the life might include:

Setting up activities before the school day starts
Helping students with classwork, especially those who need extra support
Managing behavior and encouraging positive interaction
Assisting the teacher with administrative tasks
Supervising during recess, lunch, or school trips

The emotional side:
You’ll need patience, empathy, and resilience. Kids can have bad days, and sometimes so will you. But seeing students grow and succeed because of your support? That’s the kind of satisfaction money can’t buy.

The physical side:
You’ll be on your feet a lot, moving around classrooms, bending to talk to kids, lifting resources, and sometimes managing messy activities. It’s active, hands-on, and sometimes exhausting—but rarely boring.

Work hours:
Most TAs work during school hours, often from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Some part-time roles may cover only mornings or afternoons. Full-time roles usually follow term-time schedules, giving you school holidays off.

“According to a University College London (UCL) Institute of Education study (Blatchford et al., 2012), teaching assistants are most effective when they support individualised learning and receive clear guidance from classroom teachers.”

Prepare for Job Interviews

Once you land an interview, it’s game time. You’ll likely be asked about your understanding of the TA role, how you’d handle certain classroom situations, and your motivations for applying.

Common interview questions:

Why do you want to be a teaching assistant?
How would you handle a disruptive student?
What would you do if a child disclosed something sensitive?
How do you support children with different learning needs?
What would you do if you didn’t know how to help a student?

How to prepare:

Practice your answers out loud.
Read up on safeguarding, SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), and behavior management.
Research the school’s ethos and values.
Prepare a few questions of your own—it shows interest and initiative.

Bonus tip:
If you can, visit the school beforehand. Getting a feel for the environment can boost your confidence and help you connect better during the interview.

Read Our Popular Blog: The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

What Age Can You Be a Teacher Assistant?

In the UK, you typically need to be at least 18 years old to work as a TA. However, some schools may offer internships or training roles for 16–17-year-olds, especially as part of further education or college courses.

No upper age limit:
One of the great things about TA roles is that they’re open to people of all ages. Whether you’re just out of school, switching careers in your 30s, or looking for a part-time job after retirement, teaching assistant work is flexible and accessible.

For younger candidates:

Start with volunteering or work experience placements.
Take part in college courses like CACHE Level 2 or 3 qualifications.

Age isn’t a barrier—it’s your mindset and willingness to learn that count most.

What Is a Teaching Assistant's Salary?

Salaries can vary depending on the location, school type, experience, and responsibilities. But here’s a rough guide for the UK:

Role Type	Salary Range (Annual)
Entry-Level TA	£15,000 – £18,000
Experienced TA	£18,000 – £21,000
HLTA (Higher Level TA)	£21,000 – £25,000
SEN TA (Special Needs)	May earn slightly more depending on needs and funding

Some schools pay by the hour, especially for part-time or temporary roles. The average hourly rate for a TA in the UK is around £9.50 to £12.00.

Keep in mind that salaries can increase with experience, additional responsibilities, or further training.

Do Teaching Assistants Get Paid for Holidays?

This is a common question—and the answer depends on your contract type.

Term-time only contracts (most common): You’ll be paid only for the weeks you work, but this is spread out over the year in equal monthly payments. So while you don’t earn money during the holidays, you still receive a regular paycheck.
Full-year contracts: These are less common but do exist, particularly in private schools or specialist settings. You’d be paid for holidays in these roles.
Hourly or zero-hour contracts: Pay is only for hours worked, so holidays are unpaid.

Holiday perks:
While the pay might not cover holiday periods directly, you still get the benefit of time off during school breaks—ideal for people with families or those looking for better work-life balance.

Teaching Assistant Training

This Teaching Assistant course provides essential skills to support teachers and pupils in the classroom. Learn about child development, safeguarding, SEN support, and classroom management.

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Teaching Assistant

This Teaching Assistant course provides essential skills to support teachers and pupils in the classroom. Learn about child development, safeguarding, SEN support, and classroom management.

Enrol Now

Final Words

Becoming a teaching assistant with no experience is absolutely possible—and often just a few smart steps away. Whether you’re fresh out of school, switching careers, or returning to work after a break, there’s a path for you. Focus on gaining experience (even through volunteering), securing your DBS check, sharpening your skills, and showing genuine enthusiasm. Schools are always on the lookout for kind, reliable people who are ready to make a difference. So go for it—your new career could be just around the corner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a degree to become a teaching assistant?

No, a university degree is not required to become a teaching assistant. Many TAs start with GCSEs or equivalent qualifications. What matters more is your willingness to learn, passion for working with children, and your attitude toward education. That said, having additional training or certifications like a Level 2 or Level 3 TA qualification can improve your chances.

Can I work as a TA while studying for a qualification?

Yes! Many people work part-time or even full-time as teaching assistants while studying. Online and evening classes make it easier to balance both. Some schools may even support your professional development by funding your training or offering study leave.

Are there any age restrictions to becoming a TA?

Generally, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for most paid teaching assistant roles. However, 16–17-year-olds can sometimes volunteer in schools or take part in work placements. There’s no upper age limit, so you can become a TA at any stage of life.

Do I need to pass English and Maths GCSEs?

While not always essential, having at least a Grade C/4 in English and Maths GCSEs is preferred for most TA roles. Some schools might accept equivalent qualifications or consider candidates without them if they demonstrate strong communication and numeracy skills.

Is it possible to become a TA without any classroom experience?

Yes, it’s possible. Many schools value enthusiasm, reliability, and transferable skills from other jobs such as customer service, childcare, or youth work. Volunteering at a school can also help you gain experience quickly and boost your CV.

What skills are most important for a teaching assistant?

The most valuable skills include:

Patience and empathy
Strong communication
Teamwork and flexibility
Organization and time management
Basic literacy and numeracy
Ability to motivate and engage students

Soft skills often matter more than formal experience in TA roles.

How do I stand out when applying for TA jobs?

To stand out:

Write a tailored CV for each job
Include any relevant volunteer or informal experience
Get a DBS check in advance
Show passion in your cover letter
Take short online courses in safeguarding or SEN

Schools are more likely to interview you if they see you’re proactive and genuinely interested.

Can volunteering really help me get a TA job?

Absolutely! Volunteering shows initiative and gives you practical classroom experience. It’s also a chance to make connections in the school. Many TAs are hired after volunteering—even in the same school. It’s one of the best ways to transition into a paid role.