Best way to train as a teaching assistant?

[MistressMerkin]

What is the best route to training as a TA? There seems to be a lot of different courses and qualifications - are they all much of a muchness or are some better respected than others? It looks like you're expected to do a placement, is that voluntary or do you find a job that will take you on knowing you're still training? Are the online courses ok or just a scam?

Trying to work out if this could be a viable option!

Thanks in advance for any and all advice

Have you got any relevant experience to date? The school I'm in, the TAs range from qualified teachers to cleaners and kitchen staff who showed themselves being great with the kids.

The courses without any placements are generally not considered valuable by most schools. Experience in schools is most valued, in my experience.

I volunteered at a school, then did supply TA work for them and then secured a full-time position with them.

I started as an MTA so an hour at lunchtimes .. then I offered to do some volunteering which I did for 6months! Then I secured my contract when I said if you need me to stay you'll have you start paying me!
I do have a level 3 in childcare and development