TA advice

[anon199900]

Hi all - I am seriously considering a career change and becoming a part timeTA. I know the pay is rubbish but I am lucky that’s not an issue and this is more something I have wanted to do for a while.
I haven’t worked in schools before but I have volunteered on many school trips with my boy’s primary, I know that doesn’t count as experience but I feel it’s given me a feel of what the job can be like, I am under no illusions and I know it is hard work.
My question is, for primary, do I need to go and get the level 3 in teaching and learning to give me a better chance, or would it be more beneficial to do some volunteering in school such as reading with the children?
TIA

I would advise volunteering. Don't go paying for qualifications which might not be necessary. Schools are desperate for TAs these days. So many advertised roles go unfilled, as so few people are applying (as you acknowledge, the pay is sadly abysmal).

Most schools would be only too happy to accept a volunteer, and it's often a foot in the door if a TA role comes up in that school. If it doesn't, it's good experience to mention on an application to different schools.

Good luck