Specialist teaching assistants can be found in primary, secondary, special schools, alternative provision, further education institutions such as sixth forms and colleges, and a range of other education settings such as music hubs.

In the Early Years, specialisms are achieved through continuing professional development opportunities subsequent to staff achieving a recognised qualification which enables them to work in a setting in accordance with the Early Years qualification requirements and standards. The broad purpose of the occupation is to support the education of learners by providing specialist support. Specialist teaching assistants plan, implement, and adapt activities in order to advance learning. They draw on research to develop a critical understanding of their specialist area. They establish relationships with learners, families, other professionals and external agencies to support the education of the learners they work with. They contribute to developing a sense of inclusion and belonging for the benefit of the learners within the communities that they serve. They draw on their specialism to contribute to the evaluation of learning and assessment activities, sustainability in their educational context. Specialist teaching assistants both reflect on their own practices and support the training and development of others within their specialist area.