RU
Being a Teacher Assistant (TA) is more than just a job or a title. It’s a commitment to passion to help students succeed. This role is very active and often requires the TA to adapt to the various needs of students, whilst assisting the teacher in creating a stimulating and positive learning environment.
Here is a peek into a typical day of a TA, focusing on their passion and their key role in supporting both teachers and students.
Morning: Preparing the stage for the show. As the sun rises, the day begins early for TAs. Arriving at school before students gives them the opportunity to prepare the classroom for the day ahead. This may involve arranging furniture, organising learning materials and making sure all necessary supplies are ready and available. A quick talk with the teacher helps the TA’s build a clear focus for a day and allows them to understand which student may need extra help or motivation.
Classroom Activities: Engaging and Empowering students. Once the students arrive, the TA is locked and loaded towards aiding a supportive and enjoyable learning environment.
Here is how they complete their mission.
Assisting with instruction: During lessons, TA’s work closely with students by constantly moving around the classroom and making sure that everyone is assisted when needed. They may read with students, explaining meaning or facilitate students so they can complete their tasks. The TA’s presence allows more individual attention, making sure that each student has the opportunity to succeed.
Encouraging Participating: Many students may struggle with confidence and the TA takes a critical role in encouraging them to participate by creating a friendly environment and allowing them to express and be reassured of their answers on a 1:1 basis, before explaining to the rest of the class.
To summarise, TA’s are an important gear in a class engine. The day of a TA is filled with opportunities to help students. TA’s wear many masks and hats – mentors, tutors or simply a friend, whose goal is to support both teachers and students all the time.
Mr Maxim, Year 2 and 3 Teaching Assistant
