Can I be a teaching assistant with no experience?

It is completely possible to become a teaching assistant in the UK with zero previous experience. Many people start their careers in education without having worked in a school before. Teaching assistant roles are often designed as entry points into education, especially for school leavers, career changers, or those returning to work.

What matters most is your willingness to learn, your interest in supporting children, and your ability to develop the skills needed in a classroom setting.

What do schools look for if you have no experience?

While experience is helpful, schools understand that everyone starts somewhere. If you have no direct classroom experience, schools often look for:

A positive attitude and enthusiasm for working with children
Strong communication and teamwork skills
Patience, reliability, and a calm approach
GCSE English and maths at Grade 4 or above

Experience from other roles can also be valuable. Working in childcare, customer service, care roles, youth work, or volunteering can demonstrate transferable skills that suit a teaching assistant role.

How to gain experience as a beginner

If you are new to education, there are several ways to build experience and confidence:

Volunteering in a local school or youth setting
Supporting clubs, sports activities, or community groups
Applying for entry-level teaching assistant roles that include on-the-job training
Joining a teaching assistant apprenticeship

School-based training is often the most effective way to gain experience, as it allows you to learn directly in the classroom while being supported by experienced staff.

Becoming a teaching assistant with Catalyst Academies Trust

Catalyst Academies Trust offers a teaching assistant apprenticeship in Essex, designed specifically to support people who may have little or no previous experience in schools.

From April 2026, the wage for an apprentice will be £8 per hour. The apprenticeship is delivered in partnership with Chelmsford College and is open to anyone aged 16 or over with Grade 4 or above in GCSE English and maths. Apprentices spend four days per week working in school and one day completing structured training, delivered on-site at Dilkes Academy, so there is no need to travel to Chelmsford.

Training covers child development, safeguarding, communication, reading support, and the everyday responsibilities of a teaching assistant. With guided mentoring and regular feedback, trainees gain confidence and practical skills in a supportive school environment.

Can you progress without prior experience?

Yes. Many teaching assistants begin with no experience and go on to build long-term careers in education. Some progress into senior support roles such as Higher Level Teaching Assistant, while others later choose to train as teachers.

Starting with structured, school-based training gives you the foundation to explore these options when you are ready.

Taking the next step

You do not need prior experience to become a teaching assistant. With the right support, training, and a willingness to learn, it is an achievable and rewarding way to start a career in education.

If you are considering teaching assistant training in Essex and want a supportive route designed for beginners, Catalyst Academies Trust offers a practical pathway that helps you build experience, confidence, and skills in a real school setting.