5 Strengths for Every Teaching Assistant
When we think of schools, we often imagine teachers at the front of the classroom. But there’s another group of staff quietly playing a huge role in students’ learning: Teaching Assistants (TAs). Whether it’s a one-on-one reading session, counselling a nervous child, or helping to adapt lessons for different needs, TAs are always an integral part of the school.
In fact, according to the UK government, there were over 270,000 full-time equivalent teaching assistants in state-funded schools in England in 2023, and that number continues to grow every day. With education evolving and classrooms becoming more diverse, the demand for skilled, compassionate, and flexible TAs is higher than ever.
So, what does it take to succeed in this role? Here are the 5 key strengths every teaching assistant needs – and how OneCall24 Education supports professionals who bring these qualities into schools.
1. Patience
We all need to understand that working with children isn’t always smooth sailing. Some students may struggle to focus, some may need instructions multiple times, and others may be dealing with challenges at home. That’s why patience is one of the most important strengths a TA can have.
It’s not just about waiting—it’s about staying calm, listening, and giving students the time they need to learn at their own pace.
At OneCall24 Education, we know that teaching assistants have a huge impact on students’ lives, especially in SEN (Special Educational Needs) settings. We match TAs to roles where they are calm and collected.
A 2022 survey by Tes showed that over 60% of teachers believe TAs play a critical role in improving student behaviour and engagement.
2. Communication
Communication in teaching is one of the important parameters that creates a huge difference in students’ minds. It isn’t only about speaking clearly. It’s about listening, using body language, adapting tone, and knowing how to explain things in ways children understand.
Good TAs know how to talk to a 5-year-old having a meltdown, a 15-year-old revising for GCSEs, and a teacher juggling 30 students – all in the same day!
Being able to communicate effectively also builds trust. It makes students feel safe, heard, and supported.
At OneCall24 Education, we look for professionals who can build strong relationships with students and staff alike. If you’re applying for teacher jobs or TA jobs in the UK, communication will always be a key part of the role.
3. Flexibility
If you’re someone who enjoys flexibility and makes proactive decisions, the TA role might be perfect for you. This role gives you diverse options to learn, explore & grow. As a TA, you might be helping a student with reading, covering a class while a teacher is called away, or supporting a PE lesson outdoors & many more.
Classrooms have dynamic environments, and schedules change quickly. So being flexible and able to adapt things quickly is essential. This is especially true in roles involving SEN support, where TAs often tailor approaches to meet different emotional or educational needs.
OneCall24 Education works with schools that appreciate adaptable staff. We offer long-term and short-term placements, giving TAs the flexibility they need to grow and thrive.
4. Teamwork
Education is a team sport. TAs work side-by-side with teachers, parents, SENCOs, and other professionals to support students. That means being a team player is non-negotiable. You need to understand your role in the classroom, contribute ideas, follow plans, and always keep the shared goal in mind: helping students succeed.
A report from the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) shows that when teachers and teaching assistants plan together, it leads to better learning outcomes for students.
At OneCall24 Education, we support this by placing candidates in schools where collaboration and respect are part of the culture. It’s not just about finding jobs- it’s about finding the right fit for professionals and organisations.
5. Empathy
Last but certainly not least – empathy. This is the strength that helps TAs truly connect with students. Whether a child is feeling anxious, facing personal difficulties, or just having a rough day, a kind and understanding TA can make all the difference.
Empathy allows you to support emotional well-being, not just academic progress. And in today’s world, where children face rising mental health concerns, this has never been more important.
The NHS reports that one in five children aged 7 to 16 had a probable mental disorder in 2023. TAs are often the first to notice when something’s wrong.
At OneCall24 Education, we believe that emotional support is just as important as educational help. That’s why we value teaching assistants who bring heart and skill to their work.
Why These Strengths Matter in Education Recruitment?
When schools partner with OneCall24 Education, they’re not just looking for a pair of helping hands; they’re looking for professionals with the right mindset and qualities.
By understanding and championing these five strengths, we make better matches between schools and teaching assistants, which means better outcomes for students, staff, and the wider school community.
Whether you’re an experienced TA or someone looking to start a new journey in education, knowing what matters can help you stand out.
Looking for Teaching Assistant Jobs in the UK?
If you’ve got these strengths and a passion for education, we’d love to hear from you.
At OneCall24 Education, we specialise in education recruitment across all age ranges, including nurseries and EYFS, placing dedicated TAs, EYFS, SEN, Nursery teachers, cover supervisors, and other staff in schools nationwide.
We offer:
- Flexible placements – long and short-term
- Supportive recruitment consultants
- Schools that value your strengths
- Opportunities to grow and make a difference
Start your journey with OneCall24 Education today – where your skills are seen, and your impact is felt.
Conclusion
Teaching assistants are the backbone of many classrooms. They don’t always wear capes – but they do carry a lot of responsibility, compassion, and skill.
If you’re considering a career in education or looking to grow in your current role, remember: it’s not just about qualifications. It’s about who you are. And these five strengths – patience, communication, flexibility, teamwork, and empathy – can take you far.
Ready to make your move?
Explore our current TA jobs in the UK and join a team that puts people first.
Visit www.onecall24education.co.uk or speak to one of our education recruiters today.
