Teaching Assistant’s Pocketbook

As Teaching Assistants and their contribution to schools, classrooms and pupil attainment fall increasingly under the spotlight, so does the fact that - just like teachers - TA’s need proper induction, training and career development. The second edition of the Teaching Assistant’s Pocketbook supports these needs by exploring the role of the TA, offering practical ideas for effective classroom support and highlighting professional development opportunities. Using cartoons, diagrams and visual prompts to support the text, this Pocketbook is aimed at teaching assistants in primary and secondary schools in the UK but will be relevant to those working overseas. It starts by focusing on the position of the TA within a school and identifies the personnel, policies, procedures and practices to look for in an induction programme. Subsequent sections deal with how to work in partnership with teachers; effective ways to support pupils; and how, in a broader context, to assist the school. Topics include recording, reporting and evaluating; SEN; diversity in learning and how children learn; behaviour; and strategies for overcoming barriers to learning. The nuts and bolts of child protection and safeguarding, getting on with the teaching staff, contracts of employment, where to get support and how to further your career are all helpfully covered. Author Dot Constable has over 30 years’ teaching experience, including several years as a SENCO and deputy headteacher. Now working as an educational consultant she provides support, guidance and training to schools, LAs and teaching agencies