Supporting your classroom
in Portsmouth
What does a teaching assistant do?
Teaching assistants help support children and young people in a classroom alongside a teacher. This may also include supporting children with special educational needs and or disabilities.
The role is varied and may change over time as you progress in your career. This could include working on a 1:1 basis with pupils or becoming a higher-level teaching assistant. If you would like to start an exciting career in the classroom supporting children and young people, Teach Portsmouth will help you understand your options.
Starting out as a classroom assistant
Becoming a classroom assistant isn't just a steppingstone into teaching. Many people enjoy long careers and later specialise in the role. If you are thinking about becoming a classroom assistant, many schools will require people to meet a set of minimum requirements.
- Level 2 qualification in English and maths
- Some classroom experience (not always necessary)
If you need to complete a level 2 qualification in English or maths, The Learning Place can help you achieve these qualifications. To view their courses, click the link below.
Benefits of the role
Becoming a teaching assistant is a rewarding experience as you play your part in shaping future generations. Not only will you be making a difference, but you'll also enjoy the benefits of the role.
- Work around your commitments - the role offers flexibility to meet your needs
- Specialise in your role - become a higher-grade assistant or provide 1:1 support
- A job like no other - see the impact you make on the lives of pupils daily
- Training opportunities - develop your skills through courses and progress in your career
This list is far from exhaustive as many schools will offer bespoke benefits that are unique to them.
Meet our award-winning teaching assistants

Teaching and learning support award
Winner: Analiese Campbell - Langstone Junior Academy
Analiese has a passion for mental health and wellbeing which is evident in her role but also her availability to parents when they need advice and support. She runs an after-school club called ‘mindful me’ that enables pupils to learn relaxation, meditation and self-care techniques. As part of the holistic care team, she regularly meets after school with the mental health lead to create special resources. She has also forged links with the infant school community and runs ‘The Friends of Langstone’ (PTA), organising fundraising opportunities such as school discos and a summer fayre.
Shortlisted in this award...

Beth Park
Beth joined Cliffdale Primary Academy in 2015, when she was only 18 years old. She has grown to become an exceptional teaching assistant with highly specialised skills and endless enthusiasm. She continues to support families outside of school through Enable Ability. Beth is a first aid leader and always stays calm in a crisis. All the staff in the school rely on Beth to give advice and support whenever this is needed. Her attitude has influenced other staff and families to stay composed in a crisis.

Anita Tozer
Anita forms relationships quickly with children to ensure they feel safe and secure. She has become a midday supervisor, reminding children about the importance of table manners and how they treat each other with kindness and respect. She has played and interacted with children through activities that include skipping and using the parachute to promote staying active. Anita is a well-respected, valued member of staff who is well loved by pupils across the school.
Upcoming information events
If you want to become a teaching assistant in Portsmouth, attend one of our information events to learn more about joining the profession. Becoming a teaching assistant is a rewarding job that offers opportunities to progress in education or develop in a support role. At our information events, you can…
- Meet schools and colleges who have teaching assistant vacancies
- Speak to training providers about short courses and qualifications
- Sign up to taster sessions at participating schools
Become a teaching assistant information event 2023
If you attended our information event at Paulsgrove Community Centre, we'd like to thank you for joining us. We understand there will be much to consider before you decide on becoming a teaching assistant. We want to reassure you that we are here to support you. Here are four top tips on what to do next…
What can you do?
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You can contact Teach Portsmouth directly using the form on our contact us page, if you have any questions.
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Take a look at the exhibitors who attended and contact them directly
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View the presentation slides from the session for information on courses and apprenticeships
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Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to be the first to hear about future recruitment events
Save the date!
Join us at the south's largest event for jobs and opportunities inside schools and colleges on Monday 26 February 2024 at Portsmouth Guildhall.
- Speak to schools and colleges who have teaching and support vacancies
- Talk to teacher training and adult education providers about apprenticeships and courses
- Enrol on taster sessions with participating primary and secondary schools
- Watch short presentations on trending topics inside the Opportunities Room
Be the first to get your ticket
Subscribe to the Teach Portsmouth monthly newsletter to be the first to hear when tickets are released in January.
Apply for classroom assistant vacancies
If you're classroom ready and meet the minimum requirements, schools and colleges are looking for qualified people just like you.