Portsmouth school staff showcase support roles at information event

An urgent call for Portsmouth to support their classrooms was answered as 50 people from across the city joined a group of school staff at an information event at Central Library on Tuesday 5 July.

Teach Portsmouth, a Portsmouth City Council initiative designed to recruit the best teachers, head teachers and learning support staff invited experts from the sector to talk about becoming a teaching assistant.

Working in a school is a rewarding experience for many. While there are challenges in supporting Portsmouth’s classrooms, those who work in support roles cite the flexibility of school life as their reasons for joining the workforce.

Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said:

“Becoming a teaching assistant requires patience and perseverance. The rewards are huge but there are also challenges. While the impact an individual can make on a child’s life is transformational, it is important the right person is recruited.

“The event is a great starting point for those who are unsure about joining the sector. Those who attended now have the certainty they need to decide whether the profession is for them. We hope those who attended will go on to support children and young people in Portsmouth.”

Becoming a teaching assistant will require individuals to be qualified up to level 2 in English and maths. If people do not have those qualifications, adult education provider, The Learning Place can support those to complete them.

Cheryl Head, programme lead for apprenticeships and community learning at Portsmouth City Council said:

“Supporting pupils in Portsmouth’s schools is a unique and rewarding experience for those wanting to progress in education.

“If you’ve had time away from work, looking to change careers or trying to find a role that offers more flexibility, an apprenticeship is a good option that enables you to earn while you learn.”

Those in attendance were able to ask questions to a panel of local experts and learn more about vacancies during the event.

To learn more about becoming a teaching assistant in Portsmouth, visit www.teachportsmouth.co.uk/supporting.