What makes a TA job applicant stand out?

[piinkrug]

I am applying for a TA job after recently qualifying, I already work in the school at lunchtime and have placement experience.

Is there anything you would say makes an applicant stand out?

Anything that is a big no no?

Anything that is an absolute must to include?

I've already been working on something but because I'm so new to this there's probably bits I've missed or having thought of.

If there is anyone with experience employing TAs or is a TA that might have some words of wisdom it would be must appreciated!

Anyone ?

Some experience with children and a well written application would get you an interview with me. In the interview itself, I am looking not only for someone who shows an understanding of what students may need in terms of approach, but also someone who will fit within the team.

There is a national shortage though, so I tend to interview everyone at the moment because some of my best TAs didn’t have previous experience with children.

You write well so that will go in your favour already to be honest. Which age group are you applying for? Do you get on well with the other members of staff in school?

Some examples of how you have helped children e.g. I believe that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and in my role at lunchtimes have .....insert example. Or "When a child I know was struggling with reading Ihelped them by...."

Or examples of how you are a reliable colleague who can take constructure feedback, or how you are a team player etc.

Try to talk with passion about why you think the role is important and how you feel you would be great for the job.

Check and double check your application for spelling or grammatical errors.
Mention you are aware of safeguarding responsibilities ie Keeping Children Safe in Education legislation.
Attendance is a big issue right now so maybe refer to that.
Also mention that you’re aware via media that poor behaviour (children and parents) is an issue in schools at the moment and how you are prepared to support with that, with the right training and support yourself.
A number of applications I’ve seen recently have been written by AI so make yours stands out by NOT using it, however tempting.

Include how much you've enjoyed working in the school already and reasons why.
You would be surprised how many applicants don't even think to mention this! Flattery goes a long way 😉good luck!

Make sure you have detailed how you meet the requirements of the job specification, including examples.
Elaborate on the experience you have had around different ages, types of SEND and interventions you have run.
At my school, TAs/LSAs are all working with children with a high level of SEND who often have challenging behaviour - evidence of experience and confidence in this are is essential.
Ensure your grammar and punctuation are spot on.
If you want to impress, have a look at the EEF research in teaching assistants and include some of that (that you know the importance of scaffolding and not being a Velcro TA etc).
As a pp has said, there is a real shortage of TAs so this is in your side!

Decent spelling, grammar and punctuation. So many applications are badly written.
Safeguarding knowledge including issues like CSE and FGM.
Any SEN knowledge/ experience.
Knowledge/ experience of positive behaviour strategies.
Examples of where you have applied knowledge/skills rather than just a list of your attributes.
Read the job spec carefully and make sure that you cover all points. Each application will need to be unique to the school.

Overall I am looking for someone who seems to actually like children (so many applications don't come across this way), someone that doesn't need directing constantly and who can just crack on with what needs doing and someone who can manage minor disruptions so that the flow of teaching doesn't always have to be disrupted.

Good luck

Thank you so much

Does the school expect you to apply? Speak to someone involved informally and let them know you’re excited for a new role. Make sure to speak to teachers/ other TAs and let them know you’re planning on moving into a TA role. They might offer some advice or just generally be rooting for you.

I have often given feedback to my head that someone has worked well in my department (when we have agency TAs) or that someone who interviewed was particularly good. They definitely respect the opinions offered as they want a cohesive team where there is ‘buy-in’ on new hires.