Key Mistakes Schools Make with Teaching Assistants

The Importance of Teaching Assistants

Teaching assistants (TAs) play a crucial role in supporting students, especially those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). As the number of such students increases, TAs help schools maintain inclusivity despite challenges like resource and staffing limitations. However, maximizing the impact of TAs requires careful planning and a focus on high-quality teaching.

Common Missteps in Utilizing TAs

According to the Education Endowment Foundation's updated guidance, schools often make several common errors regarding the deployment of teaching assistants. Below are three key mistakes and suggestions to improve TA effectiveness in the classroom:

• Overreliance on One-to-One Support: Many schools commonly assign TAs to provide long-term one-on-one support for specific students, often referred to as the “Velcro model.” This approach can limit students’ access to high-quality teaching. To address this, TAs should prepare students for learning and reinforce material by engaging in flexible group work rather than sole one-on-one assistance.
• Removing Students from Class Too Often: While delivering interventions outside the classroom can be beneficial, it shouldn't compromise lesson time. Schools need to ensure any intervention is purposeful and at least as valuable as classroom learning. Selecting evidence-based interventions and aligning them with classroom learning will help maintain this balance.
• Overdependence on TA Support: Some students may become overly reliant on TAs, hindering their independence. Schools should encourage TAs to foster self-sufficiency in students by gradually reducing support and prompting self-reflection on learning. This approach builds students' confidence and ownership of their learning.

Building an Inclusive Learning Environment

By implementing structured, evidence-informed strategies and focusing on thoughtful planning and professional development, schools can ensure that TAs contribute effectively to a high-quality, inclusive learning environment. When properly deployed, TAs enhance educational experiences, helping all students to thrive.

Emily Yeomans is the co-CEO of the Education Endowment Foundation.