Hi. Well done for re-training. It is very difficult to get a job as a TA, or at least it is in Staffordshire & Warwickshire. Lots of people apply for every post. It took me aaaages to get my first job (and I only got that by chance, because the person they appointed didn't stay long and I was 2nd choice!) The main problem seems to be that schools tend to have volunteer parents helping out and if any paid jobs come up they are given to people they know - but they still have to advertise and put everybody through the waste of time and angst of the interview process. It happened to me sooooo many times!
Therefore, and you may already be doing this anyway, I strongly advise you to volunteer in a local school. It will help you get a 'foot in the door' there, but also give you a better chance of getting a paid TA job, as you will have experience and someone to give you a relevant reference. It was the main thing that helped me get my first job!
I've been a TA for 15 years and am now an HLTA. Good Luck. Don't be too disheartened if you have to apply for several jobs before you get one!
Hi Feline
In addition to the support and shared experiences you will soon have here please feel free to call our helpliners to talk your queries and concerns over, our team are here to offer you practical and emotional support on 0808 800 6000, lines are open 9-5 weekdays and 10-2 Saturdays
Take care
Lucy