Many schools invite Teaching Assistants in for a trial day before offering a long-term role. While experience and qualifications are important, schools are often equally focused on how candidates interact with pupils, staff and the wider classroom environment.

At Ethos Education, we regularly support candidates through Teaching Assistant trial days across London primary and secondary schools. Understanding what schools are looking for can help you feel more confident and prepared.

Teaching Assistant Trial Days and Building Positive Relationships

One of the most important things schools observe during a trial day is how you interact with children.

Schools want to see Teaching Assistants who can:

• Build rapport naturally
• Communicate calmly and positively
• Show patience and empathy
• Encourage participation and confidence
• Respond appropriately to behaviour challenges

For SEN Teaching Assistant roles especially, relationship building and consistency are often just as important as previous experience.

Showing Initiative in the Classroom

Schools also value Teaching Assistants who show initiative and actively engage with the classroom environment.

This could include:

• Supporting pupils without needing constant direction
• Helping to keep children focused and engaged
• Assisting with classroom organisation
• Responding positively to teacher instructions
• Looking for opportunities to support learning

Even small actions can leave a strong impression during a trial day.

The important role Teaching Assistants play in supporting pupils and classroom learning has also been highlighted in recent Department for Education research on the use of Teaching Assistants in schools.

Professionalism and Communication During a Teaching Assistant Trial Day

Teaching Assistants are an important part of the wider school team. Trial days help schools assess how candidates communicate with both staff and pupils throughout the day.

Schools are often looking for candidates who:

• Arrive on time and present themselves professionally
• Communicate respectfully with staff
• Remain calm in busy situations
• Demonstrate reliability and enthusiasm
• Show a genuine interest in supporting children

Positive attitude and professionalism can make a significant difference.

Supporting Children with Additional Needs

Many Teaching Assistant trial days involve supporting pupils with SEND, behavioural needs or children who may require additional encouragement in the classroom.

Schools understand that every child is different. They are often more interested in seeing patience, adaptability and willingness to learn than expecting candidates to know everything immediately.

Preparing for Your Teaching Assistant Trial Day

Before attending a Teaching Assistant trial day, it can help to:

• Research the school beforehand
• Dress professionally
• Arrive early
• Be approachable and positive
• Ask questions when appropriate
• Observe how staff interact with pupils
• Focus on building positive relationships throughout the day

Looking for Teaching Assistant Jobs in London?

At Ethos Education, we support graduates, SEN Teaching Assistants and classroom support staff in finding long-term opportunities across London.

Explore our Teaching Assistant jobs page to learn more about the classroom support and SEN roles we recruit for.