Swift TA: Raising the Profile of Teaching Assistants Through Training, Support, and Recognition

A recent report from NCFE has highlighted a worrying reality for the teaching assistant (TA) workforce. With 72 per cent of TAs surveyed saying they had considered leaving the profession, and only a small fraction feeling that their role is highly respected, there is no doubt that urgent action is needed.

At Swift TA, we believe that TAs are not only vital to the smooth running of schools and colleges but also play a life-changing role in supporting learners, especially those with additional needs. That is why our mission is to ensure TAs are given the recognition, training, and confidence they deserve.

Why Teaching Assistants Are Essential

Teaching assistants are often the quiet strength of classrooms. They are the ones providing one-to-one support, ensuring learners with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) can access education, and offering emotional reassurance to those who need it most.

For teachers, TAs are essential partners who help manage the day-to-day challenges of teaching, giving them more time to focus on delivering high-quality lessons. Removing or undervaluing TAs is not only a blow to those in the profession but also a disservice to the learners who rely on them.

Going Beyond the Minimum Standards

The NCFE report calls for improved access to training and development. At Swift TA, this has always been our foundation. Our training programmes go far beyond the minimum standards to ensure TAs are not just adequate but exceptional.

Our programmes include:

• Specialist SEND training – equipping TAs with practical skills and strategies to support learners with a wide range of needs.

• Confidence-building workshops – empowering TAs to lead learning, not just assist it.

• Practical classroom strategies – covering behaviour management, differentiated learning, and adaptable resource use.

• Career development pathways – supporting TAs to progress, gain qualifications, and build long-term, fulfilling careers in education.

Our approach focuses on both technical expertise and professional confidence, building resilience and leadership, areas often overlooked in traditional training.

Supporting Schools and Colleges

We recognise that schools and colleges are under immense financial strain, often facing difficult budget decisions. That’s why Swift TA works directly with educational leaders to provide cost-effective, high-impact training solutions that build long-term value.

By investing in TAs, schools don’t just retain dedicated staff, they raise overall standards. Well-trained, confident TAs create stronger teaching teams, improve learner outcomes, and enhance the overall quality of education.

Building a Culture of Value and Respect

Training is only part of the solution, changing perceptions is just as vital. At Swift TA, we advocate for TAs as skilled, professional educators whose work deserves respect and recognition.

By raising the profile of the role and creating growth opportunities, we help shift the narrative from seeing TAs as “the first resource to be cut” to acknowledging them as central pillars of educational success. This cultural shift benefits not only TAs but also teachers, learners, and the wider school community.

A Call to Action

The NCFE findings confirm what many in the sector already know: TAs are undervalued and under-supported, yet their contribution is indispensable. At Swift TA, we are committed to reversing this trend.

Through training that exceeds national standards, close partnerships with schools, and advocacy that celebrates the profession, we aim to ensure that every TA feels respected, capable, and proud of the work they do.

Explore our infographic demonstrating the value of teaching assistants and see the difference TAs make every day.

Book a free consultation with our team to discuss how Swift TA can help your school or college maximise the impact of your TA workforce.

Download our Funding Guide for Schools and Colleges to find out how to access and allocate funding effectively to support staff development.

Because when teaching assistants thrive, schools thrive — and most importantly, learners thrive.