Ten Traits of Great Teacher Aides!

When we think of "teacher quality," our minds often jump to the classroom teacher. Recent research lists attributes that define great teachers – and we think that this list also describes great teacher aides!

In the book What’s the Evidence? An Investigation into Teacher Quality, editors Rachel White and Alyson Simpson highlight ten traits that underpin teacher quality. These traits - reflection, resilience, adaptability, motivation, respect, patience, clear communication, collaboration, ethics, and persistence - we believe, are not exclusive to teachers; they are equally essential for teacher aides who play a vital role in student learning and wellbeing. 

Let’s explore each of these ten traits from the point of view of a quality teacher aide: 

1. Reflection 

Great teacher aides are reflective and think about their practice. They consistently evaluate their interactions with students and colleagues, seeking ways to enhance and improve their support strategies. This reflective approach ensures they adapt to the evolving needs of the classroom. To support reflective practice, we have created the Australian Teaching Assistant Professional Standards (ATAPS) framework - read more about it here. 

2. Resilience 

Classrooms are dynamic and challenging environments. Teacher aides often navigate behavioural issues, learning difficulties, and emotional needs. Resilience enables them to maintain composure, deal with pressure, and continue providing consistent support, even in the face of adversity. Put plainly, they bounce back from challenges! 

3. Adaptability 

No two days are the same in a school setting. Teacher aides must be flexible, adjusting to different teaching styles, student needs, and unexpected situations. Their adaptability ensures they remain effective across various contexts – from individual student support, to working alongside different teachers all day long, to filling in at the front office – adaptability allows them to ‘go-with-the-flow'. 

4. Motivation 

A motivated teacher aide brings enthusiasm and energy to the classroom – and let’s be real, this positive attitude rubs off on the teacher and students too! If you’ve worked with a motivated teacher aide, you know the lift they bring when they come into the room! Their drive to support students and teachers fosters a positive learning environment and encourages students to engage and persevere. 

5. Respect 

Respect is foundational in any workplace – but especially in education. Teacher aides demonstrate respect moment-by-moment by valuing each student's individuality, maintaining confidentiality, and collaborating professionally with teachers and staff. They approach challenges in their workplace from a foundation of respect – they see the person first, and the challenge second. 

6. Patience 

Learning is a journey, and teacher aides often work with students who require additional time and support to reach the same destination as their quicker-paced peers. Patience allows teacher aides to provide consistent encouragement, helping students build confidence and achieve their goals. We all know a patient teacher aide who has had break throughs with students who just needed a little more time, care and support. Patience is the key, and the teacher aide is in a prime position to use it to open the learning door! 

7. Clear Communication 

Effective communication is crucial for conveying instructions, providing feedback, and collaborating for student success. Teacher aides who communicate clearly, and regularly, help ensure that students understand expectations and feel supported, and teachers know what’s going on for students in their learning.  

8. Collaboration 

Teacher aides are integral members of the educational team. They are in a unique position to observe and share what they see with students, providing insights to the teacher that enhance learning and teaching. The teacher aide’s ability to collaborate with colleagues, and teachers enhances the effectiveness of the support provided for students. A teacher aide who knows their role and has the confidence to share and collaborate with teachers, is worth their weight in gold (and more)! 

9. Ethics 

Upholding ethical standards is essential. Teacher aides handle sensitive information and situations; maintaining integrity and professionalism ensures trust and respect within the school community. 

10. Persistence 

Supporting students, especially those facing significant challenges, requires persistence. Teacher aides who remain committed to students' progress contribute significantly to their long-term success. They don’t get discouraged by a lack of progress – they focus on the small wins and achievements, and persist.  

By embodying these traits, teacher aides enhance their effectiveness, contribute to a positive school culture, and, most importantly, support students in reaching their full potential! 

Take a moment to reflect on your strengths and identify one area you’d like to grow. Whether it's building resilience or refining your communication skills, every step counts. Consider exploring ATA's Professional Development library to enhance and support your professional growth today!