Blog

Gardening, Growth, and Great Teaching Assistants!

5 March 2026

Imagine for a moment that the learning of the students you work with is a garden. Full of different plants, some flowering, some giving fruit, others looking a little thirsty, and some wilting in the heat of the day.

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Embracing the Professional Identity of Teaching Assistants with A Statement of Commitment

29 January 2026

This moment is something to mark and celebrate! For the first time, Australian teaching assistants have a formal Statement of Commitment that gives voice to who they are, what they value, and the responsibilities they carry in supporting learning and teaching in schools all around the country.

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Practical Implementation of the 'Guidelines for Optimal Deployment of Teaching Assistants in Australian Classrooms'

11 November 2025

At Australian Teacher Aide (ATA), we are committed to strengthening the capability and impact of teaching assistants in schools through high-quality, evidence-based professional learning.

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I've Got a TA in My Class, But I Don't Know What to Do with Them!

22 October 2025

Have you heard a teacher say this? It's a common phrase, especially from teachers who've had little or no training in how to effectively work with a teaching assistant (TA).

Let's break this down, starting with the big C's: Confidence to Collaborate through Communication!

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Using ATAPS to Reflect, Set, and Grow Professionally

16 September 2025

The Australian Teaching Assistant Professional Standards (ATAPS) framework offers a powerful tool for teacher aides to map their professional growth. Whether you're just beginning your career or already thriving in your role, the ATAPS Professional Growth Map is your guide to deepening your impact in the classroom.

In this blog, we'll walk through each of the ATAPS focus areas, prompt reflection, and help you identify your strengths and areas for development. Then, we'll guide you through how to set SMART goals based on your growth map reflections-so your next steps are purposeful, practical, and achievable.

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