A small monthly boost to your income can go a long way. For many teaching assistants, that could soon become a reality. The Teaching Assistant Pay Rise 2026 brings a 3.3% increase for eligible school support staff in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

The new pay offer applies from 1 April 2026 and includes NJC pay points and allowances. It also takes the lowest baseline hourly rate to £13.28. Depending on the pay point, full-time staff could gain around £805 to £1,007 more each year. Term-time TAs will receive the increase on a pro-rata basis. But when will the money arrive? Who will get the rise? And how much could your pay increase? 

Let’s break down everything you need to know in simple terms.

What Is the Teaching Assistant Pay Rise 2026?

What Is the Teaching Assistant Pay Rise

The Teaching Assistant Pay Rise means TAs will get more money for their work. For 2026/27, the pay increase is 3.3% for eligible school support staff. The new pay rates start on 1 April 2026. So, staff should get the extra money from this date. Some TAs may also get back pay for the months they waited. The rise mainly covers TAs in local government-backed schools. However, some academies and other schools may use different pay rules.

A pay rise is also different from a promotion. A pay rise means you earn more in your current job. A promotion means you move to a higher role. It often comes with more duties and higher pay.

How Much Do Teaching Assistants Earn After the Pay Rise?

Teaching assistant pay can vary quite a lot. Your salary depends on your pay point, hours, and experience. The new pay rise can also give your earnings a useful boost.

A typical full-time teaching assistant may earn around £23,000 to £27,500 a year. However, many TAs work only during school terms. Their actual yearly pay may sit around £15,000 to £21,000. Your experience can also affect your pay. New TAs often start near the lower end of the scale. With more skills and experience, you can move to higher pay points.

It also helps to understand FTE salary. FTE means full-time equivalent. It shows what you would earn if you worked full-time all year. However, your actual pay could be lower if you work part-time or only during term time. So, always check your working hours before you compare TA salaries.

How Much Do Teaching Assistants Earn Per Hour?

In the UK, teaching assistants usually earn around £12.50 to £16.50 per hour. Your pay can change based on your experience, location, qualifications, and SEN duties. New TAs often start near £12.71 per hour. However, many schools use NJC pay scales, so new staff may earn around £12.80 to £13.50 per hour.

Teaching Assistant Pay by Role

Role Hourly pay Main duties
Level 1 / Entry-Level TA £12.26–£13.00 Help teachers and support pupils in class.
Level 2 / Experienced TA £13.00–£14.00 Support small groups and take on more tasks.
Level 3 / Advanced TA £13.70–£15.00 Lead activities and give extra lesson support.
SEN / SEND TA £13.00–£15.00 Give extra support to pupils with special needs.
Higher Level TA (HLTA) £15.00–£18.00 Cover classes, help with planning, and take on more duties.

Your qualification and experience can make a real difference. For example, an experienced HLTA can earn much more than someone starting their first TA job.

Does the Pay Rise Apply to All Teaching Assistants?

The pay rise does not work the same way for every TA. Your school and work contract can make a difference.

  • Local council contracts: The proposed 3.30% NJC pay rise applies to eligible TAs who work for local council schools in England and Wales. However, if your school uses the NJC pay scale, you may get the rise.
  • Full-time and part-time staff: Full-time, part-time, and term-time TAs can get the rise. Moreover, Part-time staff get the rise based on their working hours.
  • Your contract matters: Your contract can affect your pay. So, check your contract or ask your school about the pay scale.

Who May Not Get the Same Rise?

Some TAs may get a different rise or no rise at all. This often depends on the type of school, job role, and location.

  • Academy schools: Academies can set their own pay rules. Some follow council pay scales, but others may not. So, the rise can vary between schools.
  • Job level: Your job level also affects your pay. Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and HLTA roles can have different pay rates.
  • SEN duties: TAs who support pupils with SEN may earn more. Extra duties can also affect pay.
  • Location: Your location can affect your pay too. For example, London TAs may get extra London weighting.

So, not every TA gets the same pay rise. Your school, contract, role, duties, and location can all affect your pay.

What Is the Teaching Assistant Pay Scale?

The TA pay scale shows how much teaching assistants can earn. Your pay can change with your skills and experience. Your job duties also matter.

Role Salary Range Hourly Pay
Teaching Assistant £23,000–£27,500 £12.50–£16.50
Level 2 TA £18,000–£26,000 £13.00–£14.00
Level 3 TA £22,000–£30,000 £13.70–£15.00
HLTA £25,000–£34,000 £15.00–£18.50

As you gain more experience, your pay may go up. HLTAs often earn more because they have more duties and take on greater responsibility.

How Does the New Pay Compare With the Previous Rates?

Yes. According to our latest research, we should use the agreed 3.3% pay award, not “proposed 3.3%”. It applies from 1 April 2026 to eligible NJC/Green Book support staff, with back pay where applicable.

  • Previous salary: Suppose you earned £25,000 a year before the rise.
  • New salary: After the 3.3% rise, you could earn about £25,825 a year.
  • Percentage increase: Your pay goes up by 3.3%.
  • Yearly difference: You would get £825 more each year before tax.
  • Monthly difference: You would get about £69 more each month before tax.

The exact rise depends on your pay and working hours. Part-time TAs may get a smaller amount. Your school also needs to follow the NJC pay scale. So, the rise may not look huge each month. However, the extra money can still help over the year.

How Much Extra Will Teaching Assistants Get?

Teaching assistants under the National Joint Council (NJC) pay agreement will get a 3.3% pay rise for 2026. The rise starts on 1 April 2026. Eligible TAs can also receive back pay for the earlier months.

Pay Rise Breakdown

The 3.3% rise applies to eligible NJC support staff. It covers basic pay and some allowances. However, your exact rise depends on your pay point and contract.

Schools and councils will add the new pay to staff salaries. Some employers may also add back pay to a later payment. However, the payment date can vary between employers.

Term-time TAs may see a different increase in their actual pay. Schools work out term-time salaries based on working weeks and hours. Therefore, the final amount can vary.

Extra Earnings and Allowances

Your location can also affect your pay. For example, some TAs in London receive extra money through London weighting. This can increase their total earnings.

Extra duties can also affect your pay. Some TAs support pupils with SEN or take on other school duties. First-aid work or after-school clubs may also bring extra pay in some schools.

Overall, the 3.3% rise gives eligible TAs a useful pay boost. However, your school, pay point, hours, and duties will decide your final amount.

How to Become a Teaching Assistant Without Experience in the UK (2026)

You don’t need years of experience to become a teaching assistant. You just need the right attitude, some basic training, and a willingness to learn.

Get the Right Training

A good course can help you understand what the job involves. You can learn useful skills before you start applying.

Look for courses such as:

  • Level 2 Certificate in Teaching and Learning Support
  • NCFE Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges
  • Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning
  • Beginner-friendly online teaching assistant courses

These courses cover important topics like safeguarding, child development, and classroom support. Some courses may also offer funding if you meet the requirements.

Volunteer First: Build Confidence and Your CV

Volunteering is a great way to get started. Many schools are happy to have volunteers. Even one morning each week can give you useful experience.

Working in a classroom helps you learn how schools run. You can also build new skills and get a reference. That can make your CV stronger when you apply for jobs.

A local school, nursery, or youth club can be a good place to start. Any role that gives you time with children can be useful.

Understand the Must-Haves

Before you start working in a school, there are a few things you may need:

  • An enhanced DBS check to help keep children safe
  • GCSEs or equivalent in English and maths
  • Basic knowledge of child protection rules

Your training may cover some of these areas. Schools can also explain what you need when you apply for a role.

Where Can You Find TA Jobs in the UK?

Ready to start your job search? There are several places where you can find teaching assistant roles.

  • Check the UK government’s teaching job website.
  • Look at job pages on local council websites.
  • Try education agencies such as Randstad or Hays Education.
  • Visit school websites to check their latest vacancies.
  • Search job sites like Indeed, TES, and Reed.

Different types of jobs are available. You can find full-time, part-time, and supply TA roles. Many jobs also run during school terms only. This can be helpful if you have children or want more free time during holidays.

How Can You Make Your Application Stronger?

A good application can help you stand out, even without school experience. Focus on the skills and experience you already have.

  • Add babysitting, tutoring, or coaching work to your CV.
  • Mention useful skills such as patience, teamwork, and communication.
  • Keep your CV short and easy to read.
  • Aim for one or two pages.
  • Add a short cover letter with your application.
  • Explain why you enjoy working with children.

Most importantly, let your interest in the role show. Schools value people who genuinely want to support children and help them learn.

Early Starts and Busy Finishes: A TA’s Daily Routine

Teaching assistants often arrive before the pupils. There is plenty to do before the lesson begins.

  • Books and worksheets need to be ready.
  • Chairs and tables may need to be arranged.
  • Classroom materials must be easy to find.
  • The room should feel ready for the day.

Once lessons end, more jobs may follow. Chairs go back in place, papers get sorted, and classroom items get packed away. Some TAs also file work, organise folders, or update pupil records. Every day can look a little different. Still, there is usually something that needs doing.

A Helping Hand for Children’s Feelings

School can bring many different feelings for children. Some pupils may feel worried, upset, angry, or nervous. A TA can offer support when things feel difficult. Sitting with an upset child can help them feel safe. Calm words can also help a child settle after a difficult moment.

The support goes beyond schoolwork. TAs often notice when a child seems unhappy or quiet. They may also spot signs of stress, worry or bullying. Sometimes, a TA becomes someone a pupil feels safe talking to. Having someone who listens can help a child feel less alone. As a result, pupils may feel more supported at school.

Final Thoughts

The Teaching Assistant Pay Rise 2026 gives eligible TAs a 3.3% pay rise. Your exact pay will depend on your pay point, hours, and school. Some TAs may also get back pay from April 2026. If you want to become a TA, this can be a good time to start. Get some basic training and gain experience with children. Then, check local school jobs and apply. By combining the right skills with a caring attitude, you can build a meaningful career in education.

FAQs About Teaching Assistant Pay Rise

1. Will teaching assistants get a pay rise in 2026?

Yes. Eligible teaching assistants will get a 3.3% pay rise. It starts on 1 April 2026. Some staff may also get back pay.

2. What is a TA hourly rate?

A TA usually earns about £12.50 to £16.50 per hour. The rate can change by role, area, and experience.

3. What will the pay rise be in 2026?

The agreed pay rise is 3.3% for eligible staff. It starts on 1 April 2026.

4. Has teaching assistant pay gone up?

Yes. Pay has gone up for TAs covered by the NJC pay scale. The rise is 3.3%.

5. Will teaching assistant pay rise in UNISON in 2026?

Yes. UNISON members covered by the NJC deal will get the 3.3% pay rise. It starts from 1 April 2026.

6. How much do teaching assistants get paid per hour in the UK?

Most TAs earn about £12.50 to £16.50 per hour. Senior TAs may earn more.

7. Do TAs get paid for lunch?

It depends on the school and your contract. Some TAs get paid for lunch. Others do not.