How to Apply for Teaching Assistant Vacancies in London Now
If you've been thinking about working in a school, now is a good time to take that next step. January is just around the corner, and schools across the city are getting ready for new term planning. Many are already looking to bring in support staff before the holidays end so things are settled and running smoothly in the new year.
There are plenty of teaching assistant vacancies in London right now, and applying in December can give you a head start. It’s often a busy time, but getting your name in early puts you ahead of others who wait until term starts.
Understanding the Role of a Teaching Assistant
Teaching assistants are there to keep the classroom running well. They help the main teacher with lessons and give pupils the extra support they need throughout the day. In some schools, this means working with small groups. In others, it might be more one-on-one time with pupils who need a little more help focusing or keeping up.
There’s no one single way the job looks. It can shift depending on the teacher, the class, or the type of school. But no matter where you are, the goal is the same, help pupils learn and feel confident in the classroom.
• You might get the classroom ready before the day starts.
• You may help pupils stay on task during group work or quiet time.
• Some TAs work closely with children with learning differences or behavioural needs.
What matters most isn’t having all the answers. It’s being willing to pitch in and be part of a team that puts pupils first. Patience is useful, flexibility helps, and being calm when days get busy will take you far in this role.
What Schools in London Look for in a TA
Every school has its own way of doing things, but there are a few qualities we know they look for when filling support roles. Some schools might ask for specific certificates or training if you’ll be working with children with additional needs. Others are open to those with a background in childcare or even classroom volunteering.
A few things go a long way no matter which school you’re applying to:
• Experience working with kids, even outside school, like clubs or camps.
• Being organised and ready to follow routines.
• A friendly but steady approach when managing behaviour.
As we move into the new term in January, schools want people who are ready to get going without much delay. If you’re reliable, not afraid to ask questions, and able to jump in and help keep lessons on track, you’ll be a great fit.
Swift Education often places teaching assistants in both primary and secondary schools, working closely with pupils who require additional support, including those with special educational needs or English as an additional language.
How to Prepare Your Application
Getting your application ready doesn’t need to take much time, but it should show who you are and where you’d fit. Start with a short, clear CV. List any experience working with children, even part-time, and include anything that shows your ability to stay calm under pressure.
Your personal statement or short cover note is where your tone really counts. Be honest but confident. You don’t need to write a long essay. Just a few lines showing your interest in helping pupils and being a helpful part of a team can make a difference.
Here are a few tips that might help keep your application clear and focused:
• Stick to one or two pages for your CV.
• Add any training or qualifications if you have them, even first aid or safeguarding.
• Mention the age group you’d most enjoy working with, if you have a preference.
Sometimes it’s not about having every box ticked, but more about showing that you’re ready to learn, listen, and join in.
Swift Education supports candidates through every step, from submitting your CV to preparing you for interviews in local schools.
Where to Find Teaching Assistant Vacancies
There are a number of places where teaching assistant jobs might be listed, but during busy times like December, it really helps to focus on the ones that move quickly. Schools often work with trusted agencies that help find people who are already pre-checked and ready. That’s especially useful when a school needs someone to start right after break.
You can also check directly on school websites or local council job boards, but those roles often take longer to fill. If you’re hoping to start soon, finding a quicker route can make all the difference.
December is one of those months where jobs open up quickly and then close just as fast. Right now, there are a lot of teaching assistant vacancies in London as schools look to line up cover before classes begin again. Having your paperwork ready and being easy to reach makes it much easier for schools to bring you in when something opens up.
What to Expect After You Apply
Once you’ve sent in your application or shared your interest, the process may move faster than you think. Schools often work with tight timelines, especially before term starts. Here's what usually happens after you apply:
• You may be invited to a short interview, in person or over the phone.
• Schools or agencies will need to run background checks like a DBS.
• Some roles might involve a trial day or short visit to the classroom.
December and January are busy months for schools, but they’re also full of changes. Teachers may still be out sick, pupils could need extra support, and timetables might shift as the term begins. If you’ve applied early and are prepared to respond quickly, there’s a good chance you'll hear back sooner than expected. And if you ever feel unsure, no question is too small to ask along the way.
Starting the New Term with Confidence
Applying in December gives you the chance to start January ready and excited. By the time classes begin again, you’ll already know what to expect, and where you’re most likely to thrive. Schools are welcoming places for staff who want to do their best and help each day go smoothly.
Even though the holidays are a busy time, taking a few quiet hours to apply for classroom roles could set you on a whole new path. A new year brings new chances, and this one might just begin in front of a whiteboard, helping pupils learn and grow.
We know how important timing can be, and starting early really makes a difference. Supporting a classroom in the spring term isn’t just about showing up. It’s about making each school day feel steady, warm, and ready for learning.
Ready to Take Your Next Step?
A new year is the perfect opportunity for a fresh start, and schools across London are actively searching for dedicated support staff to help make a difference in their classrooms. At Swift Education, we specialise in matching you with roles that fit your strengths, and this is an ideal time to explore new opportunities. Discover current teaching assistant vacancies in London and reach out to our team, we’re here to support your next career step with confidence.