We also extend this spotlight to all the employees in our Trust who provide classroom-based support to pupils, including Learning Support Assistants, Progress & Achievement Coaches and Nursery Nurses / Nursery Practitioners.

Teaching Assistants are often described as the ‘backbone’ of the classroom - and for good reason. They provide expertise, care, and creativity, providing essential support to Teachers and children alike. Whether it’s helping to deliver tailored interventions, supporting pupils with additional needs, covering class for short periods or simply being a reassuring presence during the school day, TAs make a big difference every day.

In all our schools, TAs demonstrate our core values of Collaboration, Support and Challenge. They are champions of inclusion, ensuring that every pupil, regardless of their starting point, has the opportunity to Step into their Greatness. Their work supports academic learning and nurtures confidence, independence, and wellbeing.

Our Teaching Assistants are also invaluable partners to Teachers. By collaborating together, they create classrooms where learning is engaging and accessible, enabling teachers to focus on delivering high-quality teaching whilst knowing that every child is receiving the support they need.

Most importantly, the relationships TAs build with pupils often go far beyond the curriculum. They celebrate successes, challenge pupils to persevere to reach their potential, and provide comfort in moments of difficulty. These connections leave a lasting impact, shaping not just pupils’ education, but also their sense of self-belief and aspiration.

On this National Teaching Assistants’ Day, we want to say a wholehearted thank you to our Teaching Assistants across the Trust. You are an extraordinary asset to our schools, our staff teams, and most importantly, to our pupils. Every day, through your commitment and care, you help our young people Step into their Greatness.

Our TAs in Their Own Words

As part of today’s celebrations, we asked some of our Teaching Assistants and HLTAs about their experiences. Here are some ‘interview’ questions we asked, with inspiring answers to each, highlighting the passion and purpose they bring to our schools every day.

 

What first drew you to becoming a TA / HLTA?

My journey to becoming a TA was inspired by own experience as a former Pupil of Reigate School, where I felt consistently supported and motivated. I was drawn to the job as a way of giving back to the school that played such a positive role in my own development pushing me to my full potential and ultimately, being the foundation for my law degree. I understood first-hand the impact that a supportive learning environment can have on a student's growth and I wholeheartedly believe that every child deserves to feel encouraged and safe at school in order to meet their full potential.”

Nayana Brathwaite – Progress & Achievement Coach (Reigate School). Started September 2025

 

I am a retired children’s nurse used to a long commute. I knew I loved working with children and in my retirement wanted a local job that would continue to give me the opportunity to do this.

Penny Holmes – SEN TA (Horley Infants School). Started January 2025

 

How do you think TAs/HLTAs make a difference in the classroom?

I would say to people thinking about becoming a TA - be yourself, enjoy the experience while forming trust and happiness with the children, it’s a job I love so would recommend being a TA, the rewards within make it all so worthwhile.

Sally Clark – TA (Dovers Green Infant School). Started November 2012

 

Anyone coming into this role would need to be flexible and adaptable as things can change very quickly in a class setting. Also, they should know it's a very rewarding and enjoyable job albeit challenging too at times and you definitely need a sense of humour.

Shirley Foulger – TA (St John’s Primary School). Started December 2007

Can you tell us about a moment with a pupil that made you smile or reminded you why you love this job?

I am legitimately reminded every day of why I love this job, from students' "yes!" when they know you're in their class, to working on something for months and finally seeing that lightbulb moment.

Joseph Hutchinson – PAC (Reigate School). Started September 2019 – September 2020, then left to attend University, returned January 2024

 

I’m constantly reminded why I love my job because I get very excited when children become independent. 

Caroline Green – TA (Dovers Green Infant School). Started November 2002

 

What’s something about being a TA that people might not realise?

How long your impact can last on a child. You truly become part of their story; the connection you build can stay with them for a lifetime. I got stopped by a year 10 student last week who recognised me and remembered some of the silly songs we used to sing in reception!

Caroline Drennan – Nursery Nurse (Wray Common Primary School). Started September 2009.

 

As a TA you are not just in class to assist in children's' learning but have so many other hats to wear, a parent, nurse, hairdresser, counsellor and a lost property hunter too!

Shirley Foulger – TA (St John’s Primary School). Started December 2007

 

If you could give one piece of advice to someone thinking about becoming a TA, what would it be?

I would say to people thinking about becoming a TA - be yourself, enjoy the experience while forming trust and happiness with the children, it’s a job I love so would recommend being a TA, the rewards within make it all so worthwhile.

Sally Clark - TA (Dovers Green Infant School). Started November 2012

 

Anyone coming into this role would need to be flexible and adaptable as things can change very quickly in a class setting. Also, they should know it's a very rewarding and enjoyable job albeit challenging too at times and you definitely need a sense of humour.

Shirley Foulger – TA (St John’s Primary School). Started December 2007