Teaching & Instruction

Teaching Assistant

SOC 25-9042.00 · ESCO 5312 · OSCA 432231

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Role snapshot

Overview

Supports lead teachers by working with small groups of students, preparing classroom materials, supervising activities, and providing one-on-one help to learners who need extra attention. This role is crucial for fostering a supportive and effective learning environment and ensuring students receive individualized attention.

Helps students achieve their learning goals, improves teacher effectiveness by providing essential classroom support, and contributes to a positive and inclusive educational environment for all learners.

On the job

  • Provide one-on-one and small group instructional support to students.
  • Prepare and organize classroom materials, learning resources, and activity stations.
  • Supervise students during classroom activities, recess, lunch, and transitions.
  • Assist teachers with administrative tasks, record-keeping, and communication with parents.
  • Help manage classroom behavior and reinforce positive learning habits.
Teaching Assistant at work

Tools & technology

Whiteboards and interactive displaysEducational software (e.g., learning management systems)Copiers and laminatorsCraft supplies and teaching aidsTablets and computers for educational activities

Average salary

$35K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$25K Bottom 10%
$50K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

High school diploma, often with an associate's degree or postsecondary certificate in education or a related field.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Lead Teaching Assistant
Elementary School Teacher

CURRENT ROLE

Teaching Assistant

Teaching & Instruction

ADJACENT MOVES

Special Education Aide
High School Graduate
Early Childhood Educator Assistant

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

S

social · SCE

Individuals who enjoy helping and instructing others, thrive in structured environments, and can take initiative within established guidelines often find satisfaction as a Teaching Assistant.

Personality characteristics

Supportive

Naturally inclined to help and assist others, especially students, with empathy and understanding.

Organised

Able to manage classroom materials, follow schedules, and assist with administrative tasks efficiently.

Engaging

Comfortable interacting with students, teachers, and occasionally parents, fostering positive relationships.

Adaptable

Open to new teaching methods and able to adjust quickly to changing classroom needs or student dynamics.

Patient

Remains calm and composed when dealing with challenging student behaviors or learning difficulties.

Best for

  • People who are passionate about education and enjoy working directly with children or students.
  • Individuals who thrive in a supportive, structured environment and excel at following established procedures.
  • Those who find satisfaction in making a tangible difference in the learning journey of others.

Watch out for

  • The work can be highly structured with limited autonomy for independent decision-making.
  • Managing challenging student behaviors or dealing with repetitive tasks might be part of the daily routine.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Teaching Assistant — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Prepare classroom and materials
Assist lead teacher during lesson
Supervise recess
Small group reading support
Lunch supervision
One-on-one math tutoring
Classroom tidying and material prep
Tue
Review daily plan with teacher
Support during science experiment
Supervise outdoor play
Assist students with assignments
Lunch supervision
Prepare art project materials
Data entry for student progress
Wed
Morning work check-in with students
Assist with literacy centers
Supervise recess
Support students with special needs
Lunch supervision
Photocopying and filing
Quick check-in with lead teacher
Organise classroom library
Thu
Set up for morning activities
Assist with social studies lesson
Supervise playground
Guided writing practice with small groups
Lunch supervision
Assist with computer lab activities
Prepare homework packets
Fri
Clean and sanitise learning stations
Support during morning assembly
Review week's learning with students
Supervise recess
Lunch supervision
Pack up student belongings and dismiss
Classroom reset for next week
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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