Call for Portsmouth to 'support their classrooms' at special event
If you are interested in becoming a teaching assistant in Portsmouth, a new initiative to inspire people to 'support their classroom' has launched with a special information event at Portsmouth Central Library on Tuesday 5 July from 10am - 12pm.
Teach Portsmouth have organised an event that brings together a group of learning support assistants, a head teacher and a training provider who will give advice and information on becoming a teaching assistant.
The event is a first step towards encouraging those interested in joining the profession at a time when many schools are experiencing challenges in recruiting support staff. Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:
"Since the pandemic, it has become clear that schools across the city have struggled to recruit teaching assistants. The reasons vary from people retiring from their roles to less people applying for vacancies.
"By working with key partners, Portsmouth can raise awareness of the need and address the shortfall in staff. The information event is an opportunity to hear about the rewards and challenges of the role, giving those in attendance a realistic picture of what to expect when they step into the classroom and to understand the transformational impact they can have on a child's life."
by Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education
"Many people who become a teaching assistant join for different reasons. They may have children attending the school or live close to one. Others will join because they want to progress in education.
"At the centre of these reasons, everyone who applies for this type of role will want to help children and young people become the best versions of themselves. By shining a light on this career, we hope more people will apply and support pupils locally."
by Mike Stoneman,
Adult education provider, The Learning Place will be on hand to talk about training and apprenticeships for those who require a level 2 qualification in English and maths.
Become a teaching assistant
Join us at Portsmouth Central Library on Tuesday 5 July from 10am - 12pm where you can learn more about becoming a teaching assistant in the city. The first session begins at 10am with the second at 11am. Attendees will have the chance to ask questions during the event as well. There is no need to register for a ticket - just turn up. Find out more on the events page today!
Callum Murphy