The Department for Education (DfE) has issued a statement in response to a petition demanding that more than 300,000 teaching assistants (TAs) receive a minimum annual salary of £20,000. The petition, launched on the Parliament website, has rapidly gathered over 26,000 signatures.
Petition Calls for Pay Reform
The campaign argues that the role of teaching assistants has evolved significantly, now involving far greater challenges and requiring enhanced skills, particularly due to the increasing number of children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). In England, more than 1.8 million pupils—over one in five—now receive SEN support or hold an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
If the petition reaches 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for a parliamentary debate, compelling the government to defend its stance and outline any proposed changes.
DfE Response and New Negotiating Body
In its response, the DfE stated it will establish the School Support Staff Negotiating Body (SSSNB) to negotiate minimum standards for pay and conditions for school support staff, including teaching assistants. This body was a manifesto commitment and is part of the government's Plan to Make Work Pay and Opportunity Mission. The Employment Rights Act 2025 provides for the SSSNB's creation.
The DfE said: “Where new minimums are set, those currently below them will see their terms improved, while those already on more favourable terms will retain them. No member of support staff will therefore see a reduction in pay, terms or conditions as a result of these reforms. At the same time, employers will retain the flexibility to offer more than the statutory minimum, enabling them to respond to local needs and labour market conditions.”
Investment in Training
Additionally, the DfE is investing £200 million in a new SEND training offer to upskill staff in every school, college, and nursery. This training will include teaching assistants, supporting them to feel confident when assisting pupils with SEND.
