Learning outcomes

By the end of this unit, 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.