Teacher Assistant Internship Program

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What is a classroom teaching assistant?

A classroom teaching assistant, often referred to simply as a teaching assistant (TA), is a person who supports a classroom teacher in their position. Their role may vary depending on the level of education (e.g, elementary, middle, high school, or college) and the specific needs of the students and teacher.

Common responsibilities of a classroom teaching assistant:

1. Supporting Instruction: Teaching assistants may help prepare educational materials, set up equipment for lessons, and assist with the delivery of lessons.
2. Supervising Students: They may monitor students during class, ensuring that they are on task and following classroom rules.
3. Providing One-on-One Assistance: Teaching assistants often work with individual students or small groups who may need extra help or have specific learning needs.
4. Grading and Record Keeping: Depending on the educational level, teaching assistants may help grade assignments, tests, exams, and assist in maintaining student records.
5. Managing Classroom Behaviour: They may help manage classroom behavior and provide support in maintaining a positive and respectful learning environment.
6. Assisting with Special Needs Students: In inclusive classrooms, teaching assistants often work with students who have special educational needs, providing extra support.
7. Offering Language Support: In bilingual or ESL (English as a Second Language) programs, teaching assistants may help students with language skills.
8. Providing Feedback to Teachers: They often communicate with teachers about the progress and challenges of individual students.
9. Administrative Tasks: Teaching assistants may assist with administrative tasks such as photocopying, organising materials, and setting up classroom displays.
10. Supervising Activities: They may assist with extracurricular activities, excursions, or other school-related events.

It’s important to note that the specific duties of a teaching assistant can vary widely based on factors such as the educational level, subject matter, and individual classroom needs. Additionally, the level of responsibility given to teaching assistants may vary between schools.

What skills and experience will I gain?

Completing a temporary experience as a teacher’s assistant can provide you with a range of valuable skills and experiences that can be applicable in various aspects of your professional and personal life. Here are some of the skills and experiences you may gain:

Communication Skills

• You will develop strong verbal and written communication skills as you interact with both teachers and students on a regular basis. This includes effective listening, clear pronunciation, and the ability to explain information in a way that is easily understood.

Teamwork and Collaboration

• Working closely with teachers, students, and potentially other teaching assistants will teach you how to operate effectively within a team to achieve common goals.

Problem-Solving Skills

• You’ll likely have challenges in the classroom, from individual student needs to finding creative solutions to classroom issues. This can help develop your problem-solving abilities.

Adaptability and Flexibility

• Each day in a classroom setting can bring new and unexpected situations. You’ll learn to adapt quickly to changing situations and be flexible in your approach.

Organisational Skills

• You’ll be involved in organising classroom materials, managing student records, and possibly helping with administrative tasks. This will enhance your organisational abilities.

Time Management

• Balancing various tasks and responsibilities within a classroom environment will teach you how to manage your time effectively and prioritise tasks.

Empathy and Patience

• Working with students of different abilities and backgrounds requires a high degree of empathy and patience. You’ll learn how to be sensitive to the needs of
  others and how to offer support in a patient and understanding manner.

Instructional Skills

• Depending on your level of responsibility, you may have opportunities to assist in delivering lessons. This can give you experience in presenting information in an engaging and effective manner.

Conflict Resolution

• You may encounter conflicts or disagreements among students. Learning how to handle these situations and find a resolution is a valuable skill.

Cultural Competency

• If you work in a diverse classroom, you’ll gain experience in understanding and appreciating different cultures and backgrounds.

Classroom Management

• You’ll learn techniques for maintaining a positive and productive learning environment, which can be useful in various leadership or supervisory roles.

Understanding of Education Systems

• You’ll gain insight into the functioning of educational institutions, policies, and procedures.

Networking Opportunities

• You’ll have the chance to connect with educators, administrators, and potentially other professionals in the field of education, which can be valuable for future career opportunities.

Experience for Future Education or Teaching Roles

• If you’re considering a career in education, this experience will be particularly valuable as it provides a firsthand look at the classroom environment and teaching practices.

These skills and experiences gained as a teacher’s assistant can be transferable to a wide range of professions beyond education. They demonstrate qualities like teamwork, communication, adaptability, and leadership that are highly valued in many workplaces.

How do Australian classrooms differ?

Australian school classrooms share many similarities with classrooms in other countries, but there are also some notable differences. Here are a few key distinctions that set Australian classrooms apart:

1. Education System and Curriculum:

   • Australia follows a national curriculum framework known as the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA), which provides guidelines for what students should learn in various subjects at different grade levels.
   • The Australian education system is divided into primary education (from Year K (Foundation) to Year 6) and secondary education (from Year 7 to Year 12).

2. School Year Structure:

   • The Australian school year typically starts in late January or early February and ends in December. There are four terms, with breaks in between, and a longer summer holiday.

3. Uniforms:

   • Many Australian schools have a uniform policy, though this can vary. Students are often required to wear specific clothing items in school colours.

4. Multicultural Environment:

   • Australia is known for its cultural diversity, and this is reflected in its schools. Many classrooms have students from various cultural backgrounds, which can influence the curriculum and teaching methods.

5. Outdoor Education:

   • Due to Australia’s climate and geography, outdoor education is often emphasised, particularly in extra curricular activities. This may include activities like camping, bushwalking, and environmental studies.

6. Emphasis on Indigenous Studies:

   • Australian schools place a strong emphasis on teaching about the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous Australians. This is an important part of the curriculum.

7. Emphasis on Physical Education and Sports:

   • Physical education is a significant part of the curriculum, and many schools encourage participation in sports and outdoor activities.

8. Religious Education:

   • Australia has a diverse religious landscape, and many schools offer religious education programs, though participation is usually optional.

9. Teaching and Learning Style:

   • Australian classrooms often focus on student-centered learning, where students are encouraged to take an active role in their education. This may include group work, discussions, and independent research.

10. Assessment and Evaluation:

    • Assessment methods can include a combination of written assignments, projects, presentations, and exams. Australia also uses a system of standardised testing, such as the NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy).

11. Technological Integration:

    • Australian schools tend to be well-equipped with technology, and there is an emphasis on digital literacy. Students often use computers and other devices as part of their learning.

It’s important to note that while these are some general characteristics of Australian classrooms, there can be significant variation among schools. Factors such as location (urban vs. rural), school type (public vs. private), and specific educational philosophies can all influence the classroom experience. Additionally, educational practices can evolve over time, so there may be ongoing changes in how education is delivered in Australia.

Our school classroom teaching assistant internship program

Internships Down Under offers a comprehensive teaching assistant internship program in Australia, providing an opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the education industry of the country. Participants in our education internships gain invaluable hands-on experience in Australian classrooms, working closely with teachers/educators to support and inspire students. Through this program, interns develop a wide range of skills, from classroom management to curriculum support, personal growth and professional development. The internship program hosted by the schools offers interns a chance to engage with Australia’s diverse student population and gain insights into inclusive teaching practices. This immersive program not only provides interns with practical teaching skills but also offers a deeper understanding of the Australian education system and culture. With Internships Down Under, interns embark on a rewarding journey that combines education, cultural exchange, and personal enrichment.

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Requirements

• Aged 18-35.
• Sufficient English level to listen, speak and understand instructions and training.
• Visa that permits work and/or training without any hourly restrictions.
• All participants must complete a working with children check. This is an essential legal requirement for anyone who works or volunteers in child-related work. It involves a National Police Check (criminal history record check) and a review of reportable workplace misconduct. Results can take up to 4 weeks to be received.
• Enjoy being around children, high level of patience, being able to follow instructions, and work as part of a team.

Start dates and duration

The internship program operates during school terms dates only.
Minimum duration for an internship at a school is 4 consecutive weeks completed within a single term.
Maximum duration is 22 consecutive weeks. This may be completed over multiple terms with a minimum of 4 consecutive weeks completed within a single term.

Locations

Teaching assistant internships available in Sydney.
Intern at a school in Melbourne.
Education placement in Brisbane / Gold Coast.
Teaching support internships available in Adelaide.
Intern as a teacher assistant in Perth.

We also have teaching assistant internship opportunities available in regional towns throughout Australia.
Contact us for further information.

About the schools

The Australian primary schools we partner with provide a supportive environment for our teaching assistant internship program. The students at the schools aged between 5 to 12, and there’s a focus on subjects like English and Mathematics while promoting important life skills. The primary schools encourage community involvement and a warm family atmosphere. This setting offers interns a memorable, educational and enriching experience.

We also provide teacher support internships at schools for students with special needs.

Accommodation

We have two accommodation options for the school based internship that we provide;
Homestay (AHN)
Student Accommodation (Cozzy)

Insurance

All participants must hold comprehensive insurance which covers them throughout the duration of the internship.
Internships Down Under provides and recommends the following insurance cover.

Next steps…

Click the apply now button below to complete the enquiry form. We will then respond to you via email with further information.

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