How to Transition from a Teaching Assistant to a Qualified Teacher
Want to become a teacher? Learn how to progress from a Teaching Assistant to a Qualified Teacher, including routes, qualifications, and career advice.
How to Progress from a Teaching Assistant to a Qualified Teacher
Thinking about becoming a teacher but not sure where to start? Many successful educators begin as Teaching Assistants (TAs) before progressing into full-time teaching. This guide will walk you through the qualifications, training routes, and career progression steps needed to make the transition.
Why Make the Move from Teaching Assistant to Teacher?
Working as a Teaching Assistant gives you valuable classroom experience and a deep understanding of how schools operate. Moving into a teaching role offers:
- Higher Salary & Career Growth – Teachers earn significantly more and have leadership opportunities.
- Greater Responsibility & Influence – Plan and lead your own lessons, inspiring students daily.
- Professional Developmente – Gain specialist skills and expertise in your subject.
- Long-Term Stability –Permanent teaching positions offer career security and progression.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Teacher?
To become a teacher in the UK, you’ll need to obtain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Common training routes require:
A Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent)
– Essential for PGCE and School Direct routes.
GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science (for primary teaching).
Teaching Assistant Experience
– Advantageous but not always required
An Enhanced DBS Check
– Required for all teachers.
What Are the Best Training Routes for TAs to Become Teachers?
Routes to Becoming a Qualified Teacher - There are several pathways to becoming a teacher, depending on your qualifications and experience.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) (One-Year Route)
- Best for graduates with a degree in any subject.
- A one-year course leading to QTS and a PGCE qualification.
- Includes university-led training and school placements.
School Direct (Salaried or Unsalaried Route)
- Work and train in a school while gaining QTS.
- Ideal for Teaching Assistants already working in schools.
- Salaried route allows you to earn while you train.
Apprenticeship Route – Postgraduate Teacher Apprenticeship
- Earn while you train with on-the-job learning.
- Ideal for experienced TAs with a degree.
- Leads to QTS and career progression within your school.
Teach First (For High-Achieving Graduates)
- A competitive two-year paid programme leading to QTS & PGCE.
- Focuses on teaching in areas with higher educational needs.
Undergraduate Degree with QTS
- Best for those without a degree who want to study and train at the same time.
- Takes three to four years but leads directly to QTS.
How to Prepare for Teacher Training
Steps to Get Ready for Teacher Training - If you’re considering transitioning from TA to teacher, here are key steps to prepare:
✅ Gain Classroom Experience– Work closely with teachers to develop your confidence in leading lessons.
✅ Observe Teaching Styles – Pay attention to different teaching methods and student interactions.
✅ Improve Subject Knowledge – If teaching secondary, ensure you have strong subject expertise.
✅ Complete Professional Development Courses – Look into SEN training, behaviour management, or subject-specific CPD.
✅ Speak to Your School – Many schools support TAs through teacher training and may offer work-based training opportunities.
What Support is Available for TAs Becoming Teachers?
- Tuition Fee & Maintenance Loans – Available through Student Finance for PGCE courses.
- Bursaries & Scholarships – Up to £28,000 available for high-demand subjects like Maths, Science, and Computing
- School Direct Salaried Route – Earn a salary while training.
- Apprenticeship Funding – Your school may offer apprenticeship routes.
- Paid Work in Schools – Work as a Cover Supervisor or HLTA while completing training.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Teacher
It depends on your current qualifications. If you already have a degree, one year of training can lead to QTS. If not, an undergraduate teaching degree takes 3-4 years.
Yes! School Direct (Salaried) and Postgraduate Teacher Apprenticeships allow you to train while earning a salary.
Yes, a degree is required for most teacher training routes. If you don’t have one, you can take a degree with QTS or an access course leading to university entry.
Yes! Many TAs transition into SEN teaching. Additional SEND qualifications and classroom experience will help.
Teachers in England earn between £30,000 - £46,000 depending on experience and location.
Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Career?
Moving from a Teaching Assistant to a Qualified Teacher is an exciting career step. Whether you’re interested in primary, secondary, or SEN teaching, Reliant Education can help you find the right pathway. Apply today and start your journey to becoming a teacher!
