What they do
Teachers’ aides assist teaching staff in schools by preparing teaching materials and with general classroom tasks. They supervise and participate in activities which enhance the social, physical, and emotional development of children in schools and preschool centres. They prepare indoor and outdoor learning areas and provide individual assistance to students, particularly those with learning, physical or behavioural difficulties.
Teachers’ aides are needed throughout Western Australia, from the large schools in metropolitan cities and towns to the small remote schools in isolated country areas.
Working conditions
Teachers aides work mostly indoors in classrooms, libraries and other buildings in public and private schools, although they may also accompany school classes on field trips or outdoor activities. They often work part-time, but may also be employed on an ongoing basis, and they work within school hours, between 8am and 4pm. During their work they meet and connect with children, parents, teachers and other members of school staff. Teacher's aide work is more prevalent in pre-primary and primary education, however opportunities may also be available in secondary education for students with special needs.
Tools and technologies
Teachers' aides are often required to make copies of education resources, and may need to be familiar with photocopying equipment. They may also need to be familiar with word processing and other computer programs.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become a teachers’ aide, you usually need to gain a qualification in education support.
The Certificates III and IV in Education Support are offered at TAFE colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Western Australia. To find a training provider near you, browse the Jobs and Skills WA website or visit the My Skills website.
You can also undertake a traineeship in Aboriginal and Islander education worker. The Aboriginal and Islander education worker (level 3 and level 4) traineeships usually take 12 months to complete.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.
Required registration and licensing
To work as a teachers’ aide in Western Australia, you will need to hold a current Working with Children Check issued by the Working with Children Screening Unit of the Department of Communities and undergo a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) conducted by the Department of Education Screening Unit.