Can you train to be a Teaching Assistant while working?

Flexible routes into teaching assistant training

There are several ways to train as a teaching assistant while maintaining other work or family responsibilities:

• Part-time courses: Many colleges and training providers offer part-time teaching assistant qualifications, allowing you to study in the evenings or at weekends.

• Online learning: Distance learning courses let you complete assignments and study materials from home, at your own pace.

• Apprenticeships: These combine paid work in a school setting with structured training, making them ideal for those who want to earn while they learn.

• School-based volunteering: You can volunteer in a school alongside your job to build experience and confidence before applying for formal roles.
   

These flexible routes ensure that training fits around your lifestyle while still providing practical, classroom-based experience.

Qualifications you can study while working

If you’re balancing work and training, the following qualifications are particularly suitable:

• Level 2 Early Years Practitioner: A great starting point for beginners that can be studied part-time or online

• Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning: A more advanced qualification that can lead to senior TA roles. Unfortunately, Catalyst Academies Trust do not offer this training.

• Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship (Level 3): Enables you to work in a school while completing your qualification, with structured mentoring.
   

Most of these qualifications don’t require full-time attendance, making them achievable for those already employed in other sectors.

Gaining practical experience

Practical, hands-on experience is one of the most important parts of becoming a Teaching Assistant. At Catalyst Academies Trust, this is built directly into our apprenticeship programme, delivered in partnership with Chelmsford College.

Trainees spend four days each week working in school and one day completing college-based learning, with all training delivered on-site at Dilkes Academy. This means there’s no need to travel to Chelmsford, making it a flexible and accessible route for anyone managing work or family commitments.

The apprenticeship is open to anyone aged 16 or over who has achieved Grade 4 or above in GCSE English and maths. This structured, school-based training allows you to earn valuable experience in the classroom while developing the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed as a teaching assistant.

Balancing work, study, and training

Training while working requires organisation, but it’s entirely possible with the right support. Setting realistic study goals, choosing flexible courses, and gaining hands-on experience can make your transition into education both smooth and rewarding.

Many TAs begin their careers this way - gradually moving from part-time study and volunteering into full-time roles within schools.

Interviews are held over the phone with the Chelmsford College Lead. Successful applicants at this stage will be invited to a Catalyst Academies Trust school of their choosing to read an age-appropriate book to a small group of pupils, followed by an interview.

Benefits of working with Catalyst Academies Trust

• Two-week half-term in October and May

• Reward gateway scheme with excellent discounts in many shops

• Loyalty payments for excellent attendance

• Fantastic support in career progression

• Support from a dedicated ITE Manager 

Taking the next step

Training to become a teaching assistant while working is a practical and achievable goal. With flexible courses, supportive schools, and structured progression routes, you can build a fulfilling new career in education at your own pace.

If you’re ready to start, explore our teacher assistant apprenticeships in Essex to find out how Catalyst Academies Trust can support your path into teaching and classroom support.