Today it is common for other adults to be in the classroom alongside the teacher. This can seem daunting: you may feel you are under scrutiny. You must not forget that this support is for the children. Find out the name and the role of any assistants who work with you.
Assistants may be there to support children as directed by you; they may be there to support a particular child. It’s good practice to share the learning objective of the lesson with assistants. They should know exactly what you expect of them. Try to speak to assistants before the start and at the end of the lesson and listen to any feedback from them. But remember that you both are entitled to a break time.
Try to give them notice if you expect them to do something that veers from the norm. For example, if they are helping with artwork, let them know beforehand so that they can come suitably dressed.
Classroom management should not be harder with an assistant present. Make sure pupils know who is in overall control, but insist they show assistants respect. The latter need to feel confident you will support them should they need to admonish a child.
Your assistant may not be a qualified teacher and may have no formal qualifications, but this does not mean that he or she is not skilled. Assistants are a valuable resource. Make friends with yours - it will make the learning environment happier for everyone. Look after your classroom assistant and your classroom assistant will look after you.
Elizabeth Johnson
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