The introduction of compulsory time set aside for teacher preparation has meant an increase in the numbers of teaching assistants.

So much so the relationship between teachers and teaching assistants has become an integral part of a lesson.

Courses run by organisations such as Twin Group based in Lewisham are providing the necessary training to supply this increased need.

The Community Languages to the Classroom Programme run by the group is funded by the London Development Agency and is therefore free for students.

With expected earnings when qualified at £20,000 it is unsurprising to hear how popular the course is.

Galia Procopiou, 30, is about to start her training. A single mum of two, she decided to apply after attending a short-taster course run by her daughter's school.

She said: "It was a bit scary going into a classroom for the first time. I was a bit worried about not knowing how things were run but everyone was really helpful."

Galia found the time spent in the classroom helped her with her own children at home.

She explained: "I was a stressed mother but working with the pupils in class gave me practical tips and the skills to help with behaviour management and homework."

"My kids (10 and six) think it's brilliant I am going to be a teaching assistant - they like to call me Miss."

Joy Garner, project manager for Twin Group, says the flexibility of working in a school really appeals to parents. It is a job which lends itself just as well to part-time as it does to full-time.

Joy is keen to stress the opportunity to work in a classroom is open to all.

She said: "We want to encourage people who represent the community to apply. It is important we have a reflection of the ethnic mix of the pupil group in the staff of a school."

After being a stay-at-home mum for the early years of her children's life, Galia is now looking forward to getting back to work.

Courses start soon but there are still places available. For more details, call Gertrude Chinegwundoh on 020 8297 3280.