Billie Said:

training to be a teaching assistant?

We Answered:

In the Uk you don't have to have a qualification in order to be a teaching assistant, though you might like to do one in advance.

Many schools will recruit good assistants, especially if you have some experience of working with children (e.g. even if you have kids of your own) and then you might be able to do some training on the job and get a qualification that way. There is also a Higher Grade teaching assistant qualification which you can do the same way i.e. while working and attending some day-courses.

Most local newspapers have TA jobs advertised and local Education Authorities usually advertise them on their websites too. Another idea is to contact local schools and ask if they have vacancies - they often like people who are pro-active.

Fernando Said:

Becoming a Training Officer/Manager?

We Answered:

To begin with you are going to need work experience before an employer would even recommend you for the position of a training assistant. There are many Jobs that would help you in this way if you offer your services for free.

Jacob Said:

I am almost 40 (ahhhh) do you think i am too old to train as a teaching assistant?

We Answered:

No, not at all. I am a teacher, and I know that many of the best assistants are a bit older. If you are a Mom, you have the experience which makes you able to work with kids. You are also probably not too proud to take directions, and are a hard worker.

And 40 IS NOT OLD!!!!! Please ... it's not like you're 90 years old!

Go for it .... I am sure you would be a great asset. It is a fun job, and very rewarding!