How to Become a Teacher Assistant: Australian Careers in Education Support

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CHC30221

Certificate III in School Based Education Support

If you enjoy working with children and are looking to start a career that focuses on assisting teachers in an educational setting, then this CHC30221 Certificate III in School Based Education Support qualification from Foundation Education could be an ideal qualification to get you started.

This course will enable you to engage with roles in schools and other educational facilities that support teachers in administrative functions, provide educational support to individual students, implement lesson plans and facilitate learning while complying with legislative policy and industrial requirements. By teaching you crucial and relevant skills such as how to support the development of literacy, numeracy and oral language skills, how to contribute to the planning and implementation of educational programs, how to contribute to student education in all developmental domains and how to provide support to students with autism spectrum disorder, this course will ensure that you have the knowledge and confidence needed to commence building a highly rewarding career in education.

Workplace component

While the course is conducted online, it does include 100 hours of practical work within Australian primary and or/secondary schools, which will ensure that once you have obtained the qualification you can hit the ground running in one of many available roles providing support to teachers.

Assessments

Assessments will include a range of quizzes, knowledge questions and case studies. Students will also need to undertake workplace projects and observations and will be required to submit video evidence of their learnings.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service program.

Online, Workplace

Online

Education Support Worker, Teacher Assistant, Teacher's Aide

Price may vary

Self-paced, up to 12 months

CHC40221

Certificate IV in School Based Education Support

If you’re looking to start a rewarding career in helping children get the best education possible, then this CHC40221 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support qualification from Foundation Education could be just what you’re looking for. The qualification will ensure that you have the right set of skills to enable you to effectively perform in a range of education support jobs by teaching you in-demand skills such as how to assist students with special needs, how to provide and manage a stimulating, safe and meaningful learning environment and how to assist teachers in a range of administrative functions.

This flexible, online course with a practical component covers all essential areas required for education support roles such as how to assist in facilitation of student learning, support students in improving their literacy and numeracy skills, facilitate learning for students with disabilities and support implementation of behaviour plans.

Workplace component

The course also involves 100 hours of practical work within a primary and/or secondary school setting that will give you the opportunity to put your newly acquired skills to practice and provide you real life classroom experience.

Assessments

Start studying today and you will be able to commence your new career in the field of education support within 18 months.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service program.

Online, Workplace

Online

Education Assistant, Education Support Worker, Teacher Assistant, Teacher's Aide

Price may vary

Self-paced, up to 18 months

CHC30221, CHC40221

Certificate III in School Based Education Support and Certificate IV in School Based Education Support

If you enjoy working with children in a classroom setting and are looking for a course that will allow you to start a rewarding education career, then this dual CHC30221 Certificate III in School Based Education Support and CHC40221 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support qualification is an excellent choice. This dual qualification will give you a solid educational base that will enable you to work in a range of education support roles across Australian primary and secondary schools by teaching you how to assist teachers and support student learning, provide support to individual students with special needs, complete general administrative and operational tasks in a classroom setting, as well as how to coach and supervise other educators.

By learning essential education support skills such as how to contribute to student education in all developmental domains such as numeracy and literacy, how to set up and sustain learning areas, how to identify and respond to children and young people at risk, how to support students with additional needs in the classroom and how to provide support to students with autism spectrum disorder, you will gain all the knowledge and confidence required to be a top performer in any education support role.

Workplace component

In addition to the online theoretical component, this course also involves 100 hours of practical work in a classroom setting within primary and/or secondary schools which will ensure that you can practice your new skills and gain real life classroom experience before graduating.

Assessments

Please note: This is a fee-for-service program.

Online, Workplace

Online

Education Assistant, Teacher Assistant, Teacher's Aide

Price may vary

Self-paced, up to 24 months

CHC40221

Certificate IV in School Based Education Support (VIC only)

Melbourne College of Further Education is only accepting 2025 enrolments for this course.

If you possess a love of working with children in an educational setting and are considering turning this into a fulfilling career, then this CHC40221 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support qualification from Melbourne College of Further Education (MCFE) could be just the thing to get you started. This course is designed with the needs of the contemporary education industry in mind, and covers essential subjects such as classroom support, behaviour management, communication and collaboration with teachers and other professionals, planning and implementing educational support programs, and legal and ethical considerations in the field of education support.

The course also features 100 hours of practical work placement at an approved primary or secondary school which will give you the experience you need to hit the ground running in any education support role nationally.
This course is covered by the Victorian Government’s Skills First Funding Program and eligible students will be able to study this course with low fees. Please enquire to see if you qualify for government funding.

Delivery

This course is delivered over 26 Sessions, average duration is 10 months to include practical experience in a workplace. There are:

– 22 x 5-hour theory sessions (Online or On Campus)
– 3 x 6-hour practical skills classes (On Campus)
– 1 x 8 hour First aid class (On Campus)
– 2 x Assessor workplace visits and 100 hours of work placement at an approved primary or secondary school
– Recommended 15 hours of self-paced learning per week

Assessments include theory question online via our learning management system, oral questions, projects, and observations of skills.

Blended, Classroom, On Campus, Workplace

VIC

Education Support Worker, Home Tutor, Teacher Assistant, Teacher's Aide

Price may vary

10 months on average

On this page

What is a Teacher Assistant?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Teacher Assistant?

The role of a Teacher Assistant is both rewarding and impactful, providing essential support to educators and students alike. Teacher Assistants work closely with teachers in various educational settings, including primary and secondary schools, to enhance the learning experience. They play a vital role in helping students grasp complex concepts, ensuring that each child receives the attention they need to thrive academically and socially.

In their day-to-day responsibilities, Teacher Assistants assist in preparing classroom materials, supervising students during lessons, and providing one-on-one support to those who may require additional help. They often engage with students in small groups, facilitating discussions and activities that promote collaborative learning. Additionally, Teacher Assistants may help in maintaining a positive classroom environment, encouraging students to express themselves and participate actively in their education.

Beyond direct classroom support, Teacher Assistants also contribute to the administrative side of education. They may assist in grading assignments, tracking student progress, and communicating with parents about their children’s development. This multifaceted role not only enriches the educational experience for students but also allows Teacher Assistants to develop valuable skills in communication, organisation, and teamwork.

Overall, a career as a Teacher Assistant is an excellent choice for those passionate about education and making a difference in the lives of young learners. It offers a unique opportunity to be part of a supportive educational community, fostering growth and learning while building meaningful relationships with students and educators alike.

Career snapshots For Teacher Assistants

The role of a Teacher Assistant is vital in supporting educators and enhancing the learning experience for students. This position is predominantly filled by women, reflecting the nurturing nature of the profession. Teacher Assistants work closely with teachers to provide educational support, often in classrooms with diverse learning needs.

Average Age: Typically ranges from 25 to 45 years.
Gender Breakdown: Approximately 92% female and 8% male.
Hours per Week: Generally between 20 to 40 hours, depending on the employment type (part-time or full-time).
Average Pay: The average hourly wage is around AU$26.53, with annual salaries ranging from AU$42,000 to AU$67,000.
Unemployment Rate: Relatively low, with a strong demand for educational support roles.
Employment Numbers: Approximately 50,000 individuals are employed as Teacher Assistants across Australia.
Projected Growth: The sector is expected to grow steadily, with increasing recognition of the importance of educational support roles in schools.

These insights highlight the rewarding nature of a career as a Teacher Assistant, offering opportunities for those passionate about education and student development.

What will I do?

Teacher Assistants play a vital role in the educational environment, providing support to teachers and students alike. They assist in creating a positive learning atmosphere, helping to facilitate lessons, and ensuring that students receive the attention they need to thrive academically. This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about education and enjoy working closely with children, making a significant impact on their learning experiences.

Assist with Classroom Management – Help maintain a conducive learning environment by managing student behaviour and ensuring classroom rules are followed.
Support Individual Students – Provide one-on-one assistance to students who may need extra help with their studies or have special educational needs.
Prepare Learning Materials – Assist in preparing and organising educational resources and materials for lessons.
Facilitate Group Activities – Help lead small group activities and discussions, encouraging student participation and collaboration.
Monitor Student Progress – Observe and report on student performance and behaviour to the teacher, helping to identify areas where students may need additional support.
Assist with Administrative Tasks – Help with clerical duties such as grading assignments, maintaining student records, and preparing reports.
Supervise Students – Oversee students during recess, lunch, and other non-classroom activities to ensure their safety and well-being.
Implement Lesson Plans – Support the teacher in executing lesson plans and adapting them as necessary to meet the needs of the students.
Communicate with Parents – Assist in communicating with parents regarding their child’s progress and any concerns that may arise.
Participate in Professional Development – Engage in training and workshops to enhance skills and stay updated on educational practices.

What skills do I need?

A career as a Teacher Assistant requires a diverse set of skills that are essential for supporting both teachers and students in the classroom environment. Strong communication skills are vital, as Teacher Assistants must effectively convey information to students and collaborate with teachers to enhance the learning experience. Additionally, patience and empathy are crucial traits, enabling them to work with students of varying abilities and backgrounds, particularly those with special needs. Organizational skills are also important, as Teacher Assistants often help manage classroom activities, prepare materials, and maintain a conducive learning environment.

Furthermore, a solid understanding of educational practices and curriculum planning can significantly enhance a Teacher Assistant’s effectiveness. Skills in behaviour management and conflict resolution are beneficial, as they help maintain a positive classroom atmosphere. Lastly, adaptability is key, as Teacher Assistants may need to adjust their approaches based on the unique needs of each student or the dynamics of the classroom. By cultivating these skills, individuals can thrive in this rewarding role and contribute positively to the educational journey of their students.

Skills/attributes

Strong communication skills
Patience and empathy
Ability to work collaboratively with teachers and students
Organisational skills
Adaptability to different learning styles
Basic understanding of child development
Experience with classroom management
Knowledge of educational resources and tools
Ability to assist with lesson planning and implementation
Commitment to fostering a positive learning environment
Problem-solving skills
Basic computer skills for administrative tasks
Understanding of special needs education
Willingness to engage in ongoing professional development

Resources

NATIONAL

QLD

VIC

ACT

TAS

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How to Become a Teacher Assistant: Australian Careers in Education Support

What is a Teacher Assistant?

Career snapshots For Teacher Assistants

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Skills/attributes

Resources

Career Outcomes