This unit looks at how the role has developed across the UK over time and particularly in Wales. It explores the skills and attributes that teaching assistants use to provide effective support and contribute to productive teamwork.

Course learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

• Discuss how the UK’s teaching assistant workforce came into being
• Be developing your understanding that teaching assistants are part of a wider assistant workforce in the public services of health, social services and education
• Have insights into the diverse roles and distinctive contributions of teaching assistants across the UK
• Be able to identify some of the skills that teaching assistants use to provide effective support and that contribute to productive teamwork
• Be reflecting on the value of the work of teaching assistants and on the support skills involved, and thinking about your future role.