Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 62
62
Accepted in Part
Issue guidance on TA-to-pupil ratios and develop comprehensive recruitment and retention strategy
Conclusion
The Department should issue guidance on teaching assistant-to-pupil ratios and urgently address the worsening crisis in recruiting and retaining TAs and learning support assistants to ensure these ratios can be met. These professionals are vital to the delivery of inclusive education, yet their contribution continues to be undervalued and under-supported. A robust and comprehensive strategy is urgently required. This must include: • A clear career progression framework with opportunities to develop specialist expertise and the opportunity for some TAs to progress to qualified teacher status. • Competitive pay increases that reflect the skill, responsibility, and complexity of their roles. • Expanded and better-promoted apprenticeship pathways to attract new entrants and diversify the workforce. • Clearer communication to schools, multi-academy trusts and stakeholders about the distinct functions, expectations, and career progression routes within TA and LSA roles. (Recommendation, Paragraph 225)
Government Response Summary
The government commits to addressing competitive pay increases for TAs and LSAs through the new School Support Staff Negotiating Body (SSSNB), which will also advise on career progression routes. However, it does not address issuing guidance on TA-to-pupil ratios, expanding apprenticeship pathways, or clearer communication on roles.
Government Response
Accepted in Part
HM Government
Accepted in Part
Teaching Assistants (TAs) play an important role in supporting pupils with SEND. We recognise that training and career progression opportunities for TAs help schools have the skilled staff they need. This Government values and recognises the professionalism of the entire school workforce, which is why the School Support Staff Negotiating Body (SSSNB) is being established through the Employment Rights Bill. The body will mean that in future years the pay rates, pay awards, and terms and conditions for school support staff will be negotiated by school support staff employer and employee representatives, and incorporated into contracts when agreed by the Secretary of State. This will ensure that support staff are properly recognised and rewarded for the work they do. The SSSNB will also advise on suitable training and career progression routes that recognise the varied and vital roles support staff undertake. The body will help address recruitment and retention challenges state-funded schools are facing for support staff.