Part 1 Background to the development of the Good Practice Guide: recent developments in the work of teaching assistants; the origins of the Good Practice Guide; managing developments and review in practice; defining responsibilities clearly; providing clear deployment within a flexible framework; creating partnerships with teachers; working with others involved in education; developing assistant teams; reviewing performance and promoting development. Part 2 Strategies drawn from experiences in schools and LEAs: developing clear job descriptions and accountabilities; exploring flexible strategies; planning for teamwork with teachers; drawing parents, governors and others into the work of assistants; creating opportunities for team development; devising induction, professional development reviews and records of achievements; working effectively with teaching assistants - the next steps.