Embracing the Professional Identity of Teaching Assistants with A Statement of Commitment
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.
Built on the Statement of Commitment to the Profession of Teaching, created by the Queensland Executive of the Australian Council for Educational Leaders (2015), this statement provides teaching assistants with a set of statements that capture the deep-set values of supporting learning and teaching, to inspire teaching assistants to take pride in their profession, and the value they add to the lives of those they work with.
Why a Statement of Commitment Matters
It affirms professional identity
Sometimes the role of teaching assistant is seen as ‘just supporting’. Having a formal statement helps to elevate the role and explain to others that teaching assistants belong to a profession with its own values, theory, and responsibilities.
It anchors core values in words
A statement built around core values of the role provides teaching assistants with direction and purpose for the daily support they give to young people and teachers. When challenges come, the statement remains, providing a reminder of the core commitments of the role.
It fosters ownership and agency
This statement is intended to be something that teaching assistants can “claim as their own.” It encourages reflection, discussion, and adaptation within local contexts.
A Statement of Commitment to the Profession of Teaching Assistant
I acknowledge that I am a member of a profession that extends to me the opportunity and the privilege to make a positive difference in the lives of young people.
- I bring to the profession my unique talents to support learning and teaching, and I commit to nurturing and developing these talents throughout my career.
- I understand that supporting learning and teaching is a deeply human endeavour. While I support learning and teaching, above all I support young people.
- I support learning and teaching by working alongside teachers, recognising their role as classroom leaders.
- I recognise and respect the body of distinct theory and knowledge which I strive to learn from and apply to my practice.
- I recognise that young people learn in different ways and at different rates and strive to help every young person succeed.
- I work alongside teachers to support the evaluation of student achievement.
- I recognise that supporting learning and teaching is a collaborative process.
- I acknowledge the contribution of parents, caregivers, teaching assistants, and teachers past and present.
- I offer a spirit of optimism, resilience, and hope.
- I commit to continuous learning throughout my professional career.
In committing to this statement, I accept the responsibilities of being a teaching assistant, and acknowledge the deep trust placed in me by young people, teachers, parents, care-givers, and society.
What This Means for Teaching Assistants
- Claim it and make it your own: Use it in staff rooms, goal-setting sessions, and induction.
- Use it for reflection: Revisit it weekly, monthly, or annually.
- Embed it in performance and PD: Integrate it into role descriptions and professional learning.
May this statement become a guiding light in your daily work, your career growth, and your view of the value and vital contribution you make to young people’s learning and lives.
This is more than a symbolic gesture. It’s a moment to celebrate the heart, skills, and purpose of those who stand shoulder to shoulder with teachers every day.
Download the Statement
