Written question WQ92864

The responsibility for the employment of teaching assistants in schools lies with local authorities and governing bodies as the employing bodies. The employer must ensure that sufficient, suitable staff are employed or engaged to work at the school, to provide education appropriate for the ages, aptitudes, abilities and needs of all pupils.

Vocational qualifications (including apprenticeships) are available to encourage people into the profession and to develop the skills of existing teaching support staff.