Through poor pay and conditions and high workload, there has been a systematic undermining of the teaching assistant role. Julian Stanley looks at the work of these vital professionals and the challenges they face

Last Wednesday (September 16) was National Teaching Assistant’s Day, so I was reminded of an inspirational woman I met this summer.

Barbara (not her real name) was in her late-40s and for most of her adult life had worked in catering, latterly in a school canteen. Here, her natural way with children was spotted by the headteacher so she was invited to change career to become a teaching assistant.

She leapt at the chance and for five years helped look after a Foundation Stage class in a busy east London primary school. Her story could equally apply to a secondary setting.

Barbara loved her new job. Yes, the pay was low and the responsibility was often high, but she had never felt happier than when helping the class teacher with the children.

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