10 Things Every New Teaching Assistant Should Know

Starting as a Teaching Assistant? Here are 10 practical tips, from safeguarding to classroom routines, to help you step in with confidence.

Introduction

Your first day as a Teaching Assistant (TA) can feel daunting. You’re about to step into a busy classroom, support children you’ve never met, and work alongside teachers who are juggling a thousand tasks at once.

But here’s the good news: being prepared makes all the difference. Whether you’re starting in a Derbyshire primary, a PRU, or a secondary SEN unit, these 10 tips will help you walk in confident and ready.

1. Learn the Routines

Every classroom has its own rhythm. Observe how the teacher starts lessons, manages transitions, and wraps up at the end of the day. Children thrive on consistency — and the quicker you adapt, the quicker they’ll trust you.

2. Understand Safeguarding Basics

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Know who the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) is, and never ignore concerns. Even if something feels small, report it. It’s better to over-share than to miss something important.

3. Build Relationships Early

Smile. Learn names quickly. Show interest in pupils as individuals. For children with SEN, trust can take longer — but your consistency is what will make the breakthrough.

4. Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask the teacher or SENCO for guidance. You’re not expected to know everything, and asking shows you care about doing the job well.

5. Be Patient With Yourself

The first weeks will feel overwhelming. Remember: even experienced TAs were new once. Give yourself permission to learn on the job.

6. Observe Behaviour Strategies

Teachers and experienced TAs often have subtle ways of managing behaviour — a look, a pause, a proximity shift. Watch carefully and learn these techniques. They’re invaluable in SEN and mainstream classrooms alike.

7. Value Your Role

You’re not “just extra hands.” TAs make a huge difference to children’s progress. Walk in with pride and know that your presence matters.

8. Prepare for Variety

One day you’ll be supporting phonics, the next helping with behaviour regulation, the next supervising lunch. Flexibility is part of the job — embrace it.

9. Look After Yourself

Working with children can be emotionally demanding. Debrief with colleagues, take breaks when you can, and protect your own wellbeing.

10. Remember Why You’re There

At the end of the day, it’s about the children. Whether you’re supporting a child with autism in a mainstream classroom or working in a Derbyshire PRU, your role is to help them feel safe, supported, and capable of learning.

Conclusion

Being a new TA is a steep learning curve — but it’s also incredibly rewarding. By focusing on routines, safeguarding, relationships, and self-care, you’ll give yourself the best chance of success.

Walk into your first day knowing this: you’re not just assisting. You’re shaping futures.