Jersey teaching assistants complete training

Teaching assistants support teachers by providing one-to-one support for pupils

Another 28 people have started work as teaching assistants in primary schools in Jersey after finishing training.

It is the third cohort of teaching assistants to have been recruited and trained through the Teaching Assistant Trainee Programme in 2023.

The programme was launched by the government to encourage a broader range of suitable candidates to come forward.

Previously, potential teaching assistants only had the option of applying directly to schools.

Their role is to support teachers by providing one-to-one support for pupils, as well as working with small groups.

Teaching assistants also provide dedicated support for students with additional needs, and offer supervision at lunch times.

Deputy Inna Gardiner, Minister for Children and Education, said: "I'm pleased that the Teaching Assistant Trainee Programme has been successful in attracting people from a range of backgrounds that more represent our island communities, including our Portuguese, Polish, Romanian and Ukrainian communities.

"I wish all our new teaching assistants the best of luck in the new roles."