Using Educational Support Staff for Impact in Schools

Educational Support (ES) staff are one of the most underutilised resources in schools. When their roles are clearly defined and strategically aligned, they can transform learning outcomes. But when their work is ad hoc or disconnected, both students and teachers miss out.

This book is a practical, research-informed guide to unlocking the true potential of ES staff in both primary and secondary schools. Drawing on evidence, real-world examples, and reflective insights from classrooms, Using Educational Support Staff for Impact in Schools challenges outdated “helper” models and shows how to position ES staff for genuine impact.

In this book, you will discover how to:

• Embed ES staff in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and planning cycles

• Align timetables strategically so ES staff are placed where they can make the biggest difference

• Support students with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and learning difficulties through proven strategies

• Build effective teacher–ES partnerships that strengthen inclusion

• Move beyond dependency models to high-impact, purposeful support

• Create a culture where ES staff are part of the teaching and learning team, not just “extra help”

• School leaders wanting to embed ES staff into improvement and inclusion frameworks

• Teachers looking to maximise the support available in their classrooms

• ES staff who want to understand their role and advocate for best practice

• System and policy leaders interested in improving school-wide structures for diverse learners

Inclusion is not an optional extra. With disability reforms and multi-tiered systems of support reshaping schools, the way we position ES staff is more important than ever. This book provides the roadmap, practical, positive, and grounded in real school contexts.

Written in a clear and conversational style by Teresa Deshon, an experienced principal and educational leader, this book combines evidence, professional insights, and reflections from ES staff themselves.
Whether you are a principal, teacher, or ES staff member, Using Educational Support Staff for Impact in Schools will give you the clarity, strategies, and inspiration to unlock the full potential of this vital workforce and improve outcomes for every student.