Part of 1. Questions to the First Minister – in the Senedd at 1:47 pm on 19 October 2021.
Before I start, can I declare an interest, as my wife is employed as a teacher assistant? I'd like to take this opportunity to thank teaching assistants, as well as all school staff, in Monmouthshire and beyond for everything they have done to help children and young people with their learning throughout the pandemic. First Minister, the workload of teaching assistants has increased significantly during the pandemic. Many have had to step in to teach classes due to teacher absences and staff shortages, as well as supporting children with online learning, and this is on top of their usual classroom duties. These extra duties could have a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of many teaching assistants, and it's important that adequate support is on offer. Yet a recent survey carried out by the Education Workforce Council found that just 7.4 per cent of respondents had made use of well-being days, and 8.8 per cent had made use of well-being training courses provided by schools. First Minister, what is the Welsh Government doing to support the health and well-being of teachers' assistants, and what more can the Government and local education authorities do to promote the take-up of the services that are already available to staff? And I appreciate your answer just given.