Research School Network: Intentional deployment of Teaching Assistants; an integral component of inclusion Ensuring a strategic approach to the effective deployment of Teaching Assistants

Teaching assistants (TAs) are crucial to the work of schools and colleges across England. Their contributions are invaluable, particularly for those pupils most in need of additional support. The latest guidance report from the EEF, ​‘Deployment of Teaching Assistants’ provides an update to a previous guidance report on the deployment of teaching assistants utilising a new review of the evidence and consultation with an expert advisory panel. 

The guidance report places the emphasis on deployment of teaching assistants as a strategic issue. In particular, recommendation 5 highlights the complex nature of TA deployment which can be dependent on a wide range of factors. To embed effective practices school leaders need to focus on implementation and engage all staff in the process of implementing effective deployment. 

West Vale Academy is a small school with big ambitions for our children. We have a high percentage of SEND/​disadvantaged children and therefore we are united around inclusion, nurture and success as key values. Our incredible Teaching Assistants (TAs) are an integral part of our school and this culture, together we are able to work collaboratively to provide a bespoke personalised approach to learning, ensuring that all our children receive targeted support to ensure they experience success and achieve their full potential.

As a small staff team, I know the importance of engaging all members of the school community to unite understanding around what effective TA deployment will look like and how this fits with our approach to high quality teaching and inclusion. I ensure that in making decisions about TA deployment, we consider factors such as classroom dynamics, specific SEND needs and also staff skill set, this strategic approach ensures that our TAs are placed where they can exert the greatest positive impact. 

In a small school with mixed age classes, we recognise that TA deployment changes and our TAs undertake a variety of important roles, from pastoral, to fostering independence, to supporting learning.Preparation for TAs is paramount; we identify areas of need within our cohorts and provide comprehensive training programmes linked to this which equip our TAs with essential pedagogical skills, SEND training, behaviour management strategies, and an understanding of the curriculum. It is important for TAs and teachers to have a voice, every member of staff is valued and I want to ensure that I understand any difficulties around deployment and areas where levels of confidence may be lower so that we can provide the appropriate training and support. 

Furthermore, we foster a culture of collaboration between TAs and teachers through regular communication and team meetings, ensuring that both roles are aligned in their objectives and end goals, this synergy not only benefits staff but, crucially, enhances the educational experience for all our children.