Teaching assistant

A teaching assistant supports a classroom teacher with instruction, supervision, and the daily work of running a classroom. They help individual students or small groups, prepare materials, supervise activities and transitions, support students with special needs, manage behavior, and handle classroom tasks so the lead teacher can focus on instruction.

The role is hands-on and supportive, providing extra attention to students who need it and keeping the classroom running. Teaching assistants work in schools across all grade levels, often with an accessible entry path.

The job suits patient, helpful, energetic people who enjoy working with children, want to support learning, and may use the role as a step toward becoming a teacher.