Teaching Assistant level 3

[zainabs]

Hi everyone! I hope its ok to post this on this forum.

I completed my level 3 teaching assistant qualification in 2014. And due to personal circumstances could not work straight after gaining my qualification. I am now in a position to start work in September, I have been applying to level 3 and 2 vaccancies that are advertised on the councils website. But I am having no luck what so ever. What is the best way to get a job as teaching assistant in a school?

Is worth trying to apply for a lunchtime supervisor role at a school and then applying for a TA at same school??

Sorry for long post and THANK YOU in advance

[toomuchicecream]

Yes, definitely work applying for a lunchtime supervisor job as a way in. Also volunteering at a school - you'll not only be able to get a current reference from them, but you'll be at the front of the line to be interviewed if a paid job does come up. But be aware, school budgets are increasingly tight and I'm hearing of lots of schools that are either making TAs redundant or not replacing ones that leave.

[LollipopViolet]

I've just qualified and am in the same boat. I think with me it's lack of experience. I currently have a part time retail job so could volunteer more next year but I'm currently looking to get involved with an agency and see what they can do to help.

[ZainSam]

I think lack of experience is also the reason why i am not getting offered any jobs!! But surely a whole year doing a placement counts as experience?? I can't afford to jist volunteer

[JOEYDOESNTSHAREFOOD]

I'm Inclusion manager in a secondary. We've made all our TA3s, mentors etc redundant. Our TA2s that leave aren't being replaced. Budgets have been slashed. Prior to the current restructure we got over eighty applications for one TA role.

[whatamidoinghereanyway]

It's such a shame as teaching assistants are a huge asset in school.

It's interesting at the moment there is a thread about parent helpers-I'd have thought schools and teachers would be begging for good helpers if staffing is being reduced. It seems it more difficult to help in schools, Both for helpers and for teachers.

[GraciesMansion]

Do some supply. Good way to get the experience and often leads to more permanent positions.