How to Spot a Great Teaching Assistant: A Guide for Schools

​Recruitment in education isn’t easy, especially when it comes to finding the right Teaching Assistant (TA). On paper, many candidates may look similar. But the difference between a good TA and a great TA is often revealed in qualities that don’t always show up on a CV.

As schools face tighter budgets and rising demand for SEND support, knowing what to look for is more important than ever. Here’s what really matters when hiring a TA.

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1. Reliability Over Everything

Schools need staff they can count on. A TA who shows up consistently, on time, and ready to adapt is worth their weight in gold. Reliability creates stability for pupils, especially those with SEND who thrive on routine.

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2. Safeguarding Awareness

Every adult in a school plays a safeguarding role — but TAs are often the first to spot early signs of concern. A strong TA understands reporting procedures, knows when to escalate, and never overlooks a child’s disclosure. When interviewing, always ask candidates about their safeguarding knowledge and past experiences.

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3. Resilience in Challenging Settings

PRUs, SEN schools, and mainstream classrooms with high needs demand patience and resilience. A great TA doesn’t give up when faced with difficult behaviour — they remain calm, consistent, and solution-focused. Look for candidates who can give examples of how they’ve managed challenges in youth work, coaching, or similar roles.

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4. A Growth Mindset

The best TAs don’t think of themselves as “just support staff.” They’re professionals who want to learn, improve, and contribute to the wider team. Ask candidates about training they’ve completed or skills they’d like to develop. Their willingness to grow often predicts how well they’ll embed in your school.

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5. Communication & Collaboration

A great TA knows how to support without overstepping. They communicate clearly with teachers, give honest feedback, and adapt to different working styles. For SEN support especially, collaboration between teacher and TA is the backbone of effective provision.

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Final Thoughts

Hiring the right TA isn’t about speed — it’s about fit. Schools that take the time to prioritise safeguarding awareness, reliability, and resilience see stronger outcomes for pupils and lower staff turnover.

At Aspira Education, we specialise in finding TAs with the right blend of skills, values, and mindset — people who don’t just fill a gap, but truly add value to your school.