What does a teaching assistant do day to day?

Supporting learning in the classroom

Much of a teaching assistant’s time is spent working directly with pupils during lessons. This can involve:

• Supporting small groups or individual pupils who need extra help.

• Explaining activities and reinforcing key concepts taught by the teacher.

• Helping pupils who have additional learning or emotional needs.

• Encouraging participation and keeping pupils engaged throughout the lesson.
   

TAs often work closely with the class teacher to adapt activities, making sure that every child can access the learning and achieve success.

Helping with classroom organisation

Behind every well-run classroom is an organised teaching assistant. Daily tasks often include:

• Setting up learning materials and resources before lessons.

• Tidying and preparing the classroom for different activities.

• Managing displays or updating pupil work boards.

• Assisting with marking or recording pupil progress.
   

This practical support allows teachers to focus more on planning and delivering lessons, improving learning outcomes for pupils.

Providing one-to-one and small group support

Many TAs work with pupils who need targeted support, such as those with special educational needs (SEN). This can involve:

• Using tailored learning strategies or specialist resources.

• Supporting behaviour and emotional wellbeing.

• Helping pupils build confidence and independence.

• Communicating with teachers and parents about progress.
   

This personalised support makes a huge difference to pupils’ educational experience and development.

Why the role matters

Teaching assistants play a vital role in creating inclusive, supportive classrooms where every child can succeed. Their encouragement, patience, and practical help allow teachers to focus on delivering high-quality lessons while ensuring that pupils receive the individual attention they need.

Become a Teaching Assistant with Catalyst Academies Trust 

At Catalyst Academies Trust, we’re proud to help people begin their careers in education through our teaching assistant apprenticeship, delivered in partnership with Chelmsford College. Trainees spend four days per week working in school and one day completing college-based learning, with all training run on-site at Dilkes Academy, so there’s no need to travel to Chelmsford. Open to anyone aged 16 or over with Grade 4 or above in GCSE English and maths, the programme provides hands-on experience and structured training that prepares you for a lasting, meaningful career in education.

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

If you’re inspired by the idea of supporting children’s learning and becoming part of a school community, a teaching assistant apprenticeship could be the perfect way to start. It allows you to earn, learn, and gain real classroom experience while working towards a recognised qualification.

To begin your journey, explore our teacher assistant courses in Essex and find out how Catalyst Academies in Essex can help you take the first step toward a rewarding role in education.