Would you might confirming something for me re TAs?

[LeoTheLateBloomer]

I haven't taught for 3 threes (since having DD) so am out of the loop a little, but have obviously heard about the phasing out of TAs on the news recently.

Some friends of mine have shared a link on facebook which shows a letter written by a teacher to Gove asking him not to take away her TAs. It's a beautifully written letter, written from the heart and her TAs are clearly invaluable. I'd like to share it, but this teacher works in a special school, not mainstream. Is Gove really honestly serious about withdrawing TAs from special schools as well?

I want to know the facts for certain before sharing the link on my page or making horribly rude comments about the man in charge of our children's education. Thank you

[FullOfChoc]

I am a TA and browsing here for more info on this.

There was a report out, some of which I read, saying that TA's mean the children don't do their own work, children fail to learn when they lean on TAs, Teachers let the TA do all work/planning for the SEN child and so the child gets no "teaching". (paraphrasing here)

On that basis Gove is moving to slash budgets and remove many TA posts.

There has been a bit in the press too. schoolsimprovement.net/teaching-assistants-could-lose-their-jobs-under-gove-review/

[KatyDid02]

I have heard of schools getting rid of TAs in the afternoons as a cost cutting measure.

[cocolepew]

Special schools couldn't operate without CAs. In mine there are at least 3 CAs to each class.

[LuvMyBoyz]

Gove has got no powers to do anything with TAs. Heads are the ones who decide who to employ and Heads want TAs. The new funding system for Statements (direct to schools rather than LAs) may mean a period of readjustment as might general funding difficulties and both of these issues are causing TA reductions in some schools in my area. The Sutton Trust Report cites recent research showing that some pupils make less progress when left to TAs (not enough teacher input) and Gove has seized on this. But he cannot tell heads who to employ and who would give up such excellent and very cheap labour?

[FullOfChoc]

That's good to hear Luv, will perhaps relax on re doing my CV!

[LuvMyBoyz]

Go for it. It's a difficult climate for all jobs but TAs are needed in all schools. Best wishes.

[KatyDid02]

They are, but TA hours are being cut due to lack of funding and competition is high for the jobs that are out there.