So you want to become a teachers aide, but have no idea what to do or what the job entails. This article is for you.
Before we look at the steps involved in becoming a teachers aide, lets look at what its like to actually work as one. After all you want to be sure it’s the right career for you!
As a single parent the thought of pursuing a meaningful career can be confronting and a real challenge. You have to be able to find a suitable job that you can juggle around your responsibilities. However, there is a potential career choice that is right in front of you ... becoming a teachers aide. A role that has family friendly hours and flexibility, but also is incredibly rewarding while making a positive impact on the lives of children.
Why to become a teachers aide
You may have seen two teachers in your child’s classroom. Chances are one of them is a teachers aide and they play a vital role in supporting children and the lead educator.
The role of a teachers aide is varied and you may find yourself doing many different things. These include but are not limited to:
- Preparing teaching materials
- Providing support to students in small groups or one to one
- Helping the lead educator with classroom management
- Supervising students both in class and out in the playground
Flexible Hours
As a single parent, it can be incredibly hard to find that sweet spot of work/life balance.
Most jobs these days require you to work before and after school. However working as a teachers aide you would be working during school hours. This means you will be available for school drop off and pick up.
A perfect way to still be a awesome parent while pursuing a meaningful career.
Use your skills
Parenting is a skill within its self. These skills that you use every day, can be incredibly valuable in a classroom setting.
As a parent you are always multi tasking and juggling many things at once. This skill is something that translates well into a classroom setting. As a teachers aide you are always juggling children’s needs. Every child that you work with is different and as such so are their needs.
Being a parent you naturally have patience and empathy. You are able to see things in a different light. These soft skills are incredibly valuable in the classroom. As a parent you understand that children can be challenging and as such adapt to their needs.
Making a meaningful impact in the lives of children
The role of a teachers aide is a special one.
As a teachers aide, you become a guiding light for those students who need the most support. Your involvement in shaping the educational experiences for children can help to create a positive learning environment and thus making the child feel valued and supported.
The most amazing thing is when you witness the positive effect of your support on the child, you start to see a real difference in their life in the classroom.
A sense of community
Being a part of a school community as a staff member can be very different then as a parent.
As a staff member you are part of a team of educators who are all aiming for the same goal. Being a teachers aide can bring you closer together with your fellow teachers as you all share your experiences and support each other. When people come together with a common goal and support each other, this can further strengthen the well being of the students.
If this all sounds like you then these are the steps you need to take to become a teachers aide.
How to become a teachers aide
Step 1: Train
Enrol in an approved nationally recognised qualification. I recommend the Certificate 4 in School Based Education Support. This course will equip you with the necessary skills.
Step 2: Build relationships
What does this mean for you?
While you are on your teachers aide placement, it’s the ideal time to build a relationship with the school. Try your best to get involved in the community.
If you already have an existing relationship with a school due to your children, use this to your advantage.
Step 3: Get experience
While you are studying to become a teachers aide, use this time to do some sort of work that is related to your course.
Think: Disability support work with children or working in outside school hours care.
You will be amazed how this experience can help your career in the long term.
Step 4: Apply for work
Put in the applications, and make sure you follow all the instructions if there is a key selection criteria.
Final words: Becoming a teachers aide
Becoming a teacher's aide is a great career for single parents.
It’s a career that aligns with parenting responsibilities and offers personal fulfilment. There are flexible schedules, work is meaningful, and you have the opportunity to make community connections.
Your role as a teacher's aide goes beyond the classroom – it contributes to shaping the future, one child at a time.
