Teaching assistants Salary
Median salary £18,024 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £18,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For teaching assistants, £21,239 is the typical (median) pay. That is well below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -46% versus the national average. Experienced teaching assistants (top 25%) earn over £21,468.
About this role
Teaching assistants support teachers in classrooms by helping pupils with learning activities, providing one-to-one or small group support, preparing materials and contributing to the management of the learning environment.
Key responsibilities
- Supporting pupils with learning activities under teacher direction
- Providing one-to-one and small group support for pupils who need it
- Preparing classroom resources and displays
- Supervising pupils during breaks, lunchtimes and activities
- Supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities
Qualifications and entry routes
Level 2/3 Teaching Assistant qualifications (e.g., CACHE, NCFE) are standard. GCSEs in English and maths are typically required. DBS check is mandatory. Many progress to HLTA status or teacher training.
Career outlook
Steady demand across all school types. Teaching assistant roles provide a valuable pathway into teaching careers through assessment-only QTS or teacher training.
Key skills
Common industries
- Primary schools
- Secondary schools
- Special schools
- Pupil referral units
- Academy trusts
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£9,046
0-2 years
Mid Level
£13,660
3-7 years
Senior
£21,468
8-15 years
Leadership
£25,152
15+ years
Potential career growth: ▲ +178% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 7.3%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£3,215
Teaching assistants salary: common questions
How much do teaching assistants earn in the UK?
Is £21,239 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for teaching assistants?
How much do the highest-paid teaching assistants earn?
Have teaching assistants salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for teaching assistants?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).