While the guideline ratio of adults to children in Reception remains at 1:30, most classes now employ two staff, with a teaching assistant (TA) supporting the teacher. As their numbers have grown, so too has the nature of their job, and with the right training and support there is now the evidence that they can play an increasingly positive role in supporting the learning and development of young children.
Research into the efficacy of TAs has been limited. A major piece of research called The Deployment and Impact of Support Staff (DISS), carried out by the UCL’s Institute of Education between 2003 and 2009, found that teaching assistants actually had a negative impact on children’s outcomes(1).
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
