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SOC 6112 Caring personal service occupations

Teaching assistants Salary

Median salary £18,024 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.

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

Supporting learning Communication Patience Behaviour management Adaptability

Common industries

  • Primary schools
  • Secondary schools
  • Special schools
  • Pupil referral units
  • Academy trusts

Data coverage

SOC code 6112
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2021–2025
Estimated jobs 255,000

Median Salary

£18,024

Mean Salary

£17,504

Jobs (000s)

255k

Data Years

5 years

Salary Range (2025)

P10: £9kP25: £14kMedian: £18kP75: £21kP90: £25k

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 (2021-2025)

Nominal growth: +32.5%Real growth: +7.5%

Gender Pay Comparison (2025)

Gender pay gap: 7.3%

Full-time vs All Employees (2025)

All Employees

£18,024

Full-time Only

£21,239

Full-time premium: +£3,215