WIREDGOV

The Welsh Government yesterday published Professional Standards for Assisting Teaching which focus on developing teaching assistants (TAs) and higher level teaching assistants (HLTAs); part of wider plans to strengthen the entire teaching profession in preparation for the new curriculum.

This includes the biggest ever investment of £24 million in teachers’ professional learning and a proposed additional INSET day to give them more time for training.

Teaching assistants, head teachers, regional consortia and other key partners, have tested and contributed to the standards, which reflect the importance of collaboration for a highly-skilled, well-supported teaching community.

A Cardiff Metropolitan University research report was also published yesterday, commissioned by the Welsh Government, on the roles and responsibilities of classroom based support staff in primary schools.

Working with partners to address the recommendations of the report, the Welsh Government is supporting those who assist teaching by providing opportunities to increase their skills, and helping them identify a clear career pathway and commit to professional learning.

The standards will also help those who wish to become HLTAs or go on to become fully qualified teachers.

Minister for Education, Kirsty Williams, yesterday said:

We know that the world’s highest performing education systems have vibrant, engaged teachers and support staff who are committed to continuous learning.

Our classroom support staff are highly valued by schools, and these new standards will help strengthen their skills and support those who wish to progress their teaching career.

This is in addition to our package of support for the teaching profession, to help them deliver the new Curriculum for Wales - our first ever made in Wales curriculum.