Any teachers decided to be a TA?

[peebles32]

Just that really! I have been out of schools for 2 years but need to go back for TTO. I have my QTS but thinking of applying as a TA. I jut don’t want the stress of teaching but not sure whether a TA role is much less stressful. Just better hours. Anyone made the change and not regretted it? I think it would suit my work life balance more and although it is less money I can settle for that for less stress.

I am also interested in the responses here. I have taught for 20 years, had periods of stress leave, seen it all. Happy doing supply at the moment, but similar to you wondered about doing TA work, as something more secure and settled. Love being with the kids, making a difference but love having evenings free, weekends free and little stress. Being a TA can be stressful too, if you're in a tough class, not supported etc but had the same thoughts as you.

You may end up doing the work of a Teacher (in the classroom) and paid the wages of a TA. I have seen it happen.

I know and that is what worries me that they may use me as an unpaid teacher

As you have QTS - if you stepped into a TA role in a school and they needed supply cover - then it’s more than likely that they will use you as a teacher. Have you considered a Cover Supervisor role where you are paid slightly more than a TA - have teaching ‘responsibilities’ but not the workload and planning that goes with it.

A friend took early retirement and now works as a TA for three days a week and does TA supply on the other two days. She's very happy.

It varies wildly according to the TA role. I have QTS but didn't want to return to teaching. When I was a primary TA I did a lot of cover for not a lot of extra pay. Ioved to secondary as a department TA and my job is really nice. I never cover and I never worry about work after school.