Classroom assistants, working in primary or early years, help the teacher in the classroom. They may work in only one class, or spend some time in different classrooms.
The Work
You could be:
helping pupils, individually or in small groups, with reading, writing, maths, computing, digital activities and other classroom work
helping pupils take part in creative activities such as art, music, singing and dance
encouraging pupils to join in activities and work with others
supporting pupils who need extra help with their learning
helping prepare materials and set up the classroom for lessons
accompanying pupils on school trips and helping supervise breaktimes and lunchtimes
helping keep the classroom organised and tidy
carrying out administrative tasks such as photocopying resources and keeping records.
Pay
The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates vary depending on which local authority you work for. Many classroom assistants work part time or term time only, so earnings are usually based on the hours and weeks worked. Full time equivalent salaries are often around £24,000 to £28,000 a year.
Conditions
You would work in a primary or nursery school with children aged 3 to 12.
Your working hours would usually be during the school day, although nursery settings may operate between 8.00am and 6.00pm.
Many jobs are term time only.
A lot of vacancies are part time.
You would be mainly in a classroom or playroom but sometimes outdoors.
You would be active and might have to help move and set up equipment and learning resources.
You need a good general education. Employers often look for qualifications in subjects such as English and Maths.
Many entrants have a qualification such as the Professional Development Award (PDA) Education Support Assistance (SCQF Level 6). Some courses can be taken over 1 year full time. Entry requirements range from no formal requirements up to 4 subjects at National 4 or 5, including English and Maths.
If working in a nursery you may have or be working towards SVQ Social Services (Children and Young People) at SCQF Level 6 or the NC Early Education and Childcare at SCQF Level 6.
A First Aid qualification can be useful.
You usually need experience with children, whether through paid work, voluntary activities or work placements. Some classroom assistants start by becoming volunteer helpers in the classroom.
You will need a satisfactory criminal record check from Disclosure Scotland to show that you are suitable for this type of work. Contact Disclosure Scotland for details on the type you would need.
get on well with children and build positive relationships with them
work effectively with teachers, parents and carers
work as part of a team
keep accurate records
respect confidentiality.
You need to have:
good communication skills, both spoken and written
patience when working with children of all abilities
confidence and accuracy in spelling, punctuation and numeracy
a flexible and adaptable approach
a caring nature
the ability to encourage positive behaviour when necessary
an interest in child development
plenty of energy and creativity.
Training
If you do not have a relevant qualification you may be able to study part time while working. This could include the PDA Education Support Assistance (SCQF Level 6) or a relevant NC (SCQF Level 5-6).
You would also receive trianing on the job.
Getting On
You might take further qualifications and move into a more specialised support role.
You could then apply to train as a teacher or progress into other jobs working with children and young people.
More Information
You can look for vacancies on myjobscotland website.
2026
