Supporting your classroom
in Portsmouth

Options for becoming a teaching assistant

What does a teaching assistant do?

Teaching assistants help support children and young people in a classroom alongside a teacher. This may also include supporting children with special educational needs and or disabilities.

The role is varied and may change over time as you progress in your career. This could include working on a 1:1 basis with pupils or becoming a higher-level teaching assistant. If you would like to start an exciting career in the classroom supporting children and young people, Teach Portsmouth will help you understand your options.

Starting out as a classroom assistant

Becoming a classroom assistant isn't just a steppingstone into teaching. Many people enjoy long careers and later specialise in the role. If you are thinking about becoming a classroom assistant, many schools will require people to meet a set of minimum requirements.

  • Level 2 qualification in English and maths
  • Some classroom experience (not always necessary)

If you need to complete a level 2 qualification in English or maths, The Learning Place can help you achieve these qualifications. To view their courses, click the link below.

Benefits of the role

Becoming a teaching assistant is a rewarding experience as you play your part in shaping future generations. Not only will you be making a difference, but you'll also enjoy the benefits of the role.

  • Work around your commitments - the role offers flexibility to meet your needs
  • Specialise in your role - become a higher-grade assistant or provide 1:1 support
  • A job like no other - see the impact you make on the lives of pupils daily
  • Training opportunities - develop your skills through courses and progress in your career

This list is far from exhaustive as many schools will offer bespoke benefits that are unique to them.

Meet our award-winning teaching assistants

Analiese, Beth and Anita won awards for their work supporting children and young people at the Teach Portsmouth Awards 2023. Learn more about their work in primary schools in the city.

Teaching and learning support award

Sponsored by: University of Chichester Academy Trust

Winner: Analiese Campbell - Langstone Junior Academy

Analiese has a passion for mental health and wellbeing which is evident in her role but also her availability to parents when they need advice and support. She runs an after-school club called ‘mindful me’ that enables pupils to learn relaxation, meditation and self-care techniques. As part of the holistic care team, she regularly meets after school with the mental health lead to create special resources. She has also forged links with the infant school community and runs ‘The Friends of Langstone’ (PTA), organising fundraising opportunities such as school discos and a summer fayre.

Shortlisted in this award...

Beth Park

Cliffdale Primary Academy

Beth joined Cliffdale Primary Academy in 2015, when she was only 18 years old. She has grown to become an exceptional teaching assistant with highly specialised skills and endless enthusiasm. She continues to support families outside of school through Enable Ability. Beth is a first aid leader and always stays calm in a crisis. All the staff in the school rely on Beth to give advice and support whenever this is needed. Her attitude has influenced other staff and families to stay composed in a crisis.

Anita Tozer

Penbridge Infant School & Nursery

Anita forms relationships quickly with children to ensure they feel safe and secure. She has become a midday supervisor, reminding children about the importance of table manners and how they treat each other with kindness and respect. She has played and interacted with children through activities that include skipping and using the parachute to promote staying active. Anita is a well-respected, valued member of staff who is well loved by pupils across the school.

Upcoming information events

If you want to become a teaching assistant in Portsmouth, attend one of our information events to learn more about joining the profession. Becoming a teaching assistant is a rewarding job that offers opportunities to progress in education or develop in a support role. At our information events, you can…

  • Meet schools and colleges who have teaching assistant vacancies
  • Speak to training providers about short courses and qualifications
  • Sign up to taster sessions at participating schools

Teach Portsmouth Support and Teaching Assistant Jobs Fair

Get the job you want supporting children, young people and families in Portsmouth

Tuesday 23 April Central Library (Third floor) 1:30pm - 3:30pm / 4pm - 6pm

Join us for one of two identical sessions at Central Library on Tuesday 23 April from 1:30pm.

Watch short presentations on how to become a teaching assistant and hear from school staff about careers in the classroom.

Meet nine different exhibitors from across the city including adult education providers and schools who will be showcasing a range of support and teaching assistant jobs.

Sign up to taster sessions with participating organisations to build confidence and experience before applying for a job.

For more information and to get your ticket, visit the event page today!

Apply for classroom assistant vacancies

If you're classroom ready and meet the minimum requirements, schools and colleges are looking for qualified people just like you.