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NESA NETWORKED LEARNING

Empowered Teaching Assistants: Building Connection, Confidence & Cooperation

Applying Positive Discipline and Brain-Based Learning Principles to Support Engagement, Belonging, and Student Success

WITH JOY MARCHESE

Dates: Oct 13, 20 & 27, 2026 Open To: All Schools
Type: 3-Part Certificate Program For: Teaching Assistants
Delivery: Online (Synchronous) Registration: School Teams

REGISTER NOW

Program Overview

What if Teaching Assistants had practical tools to strengthen relationships, reduce power struggles, increase engagement, and create calmer, more connected learning environments, while also feeling more empowered and valued in their role?

Teaching Assistants play a vital role in shaping the emotional climate, engagement, and success of students throughout the school day. Whether supporting individuals, small groups, or entire classrooms, TAs are often at the heart of connection, co-regulation, and student encouragement. Yet many are asked to manage increasingly complex student needs without enough practical training or collaborative support.

This interactive three-part series is designed specifically for Teaching Assistants working in international and diverse school settings. Grounded in the principles of Positive Discipline in the Classroom and Teaching from the Back of the Room, participants will explore proactive, relationship-based strategies that support belonging, cooperation, emotional regulation, and student engagement.

Each session will include:

  • Interactive activities and collaborative discussion
  • Practical strategies, tools, and brain-based approaches
  • Opportunities to personalize learning and plan for implementation.

Through active participation, reflection, discussion, and experiential learning, Teaching Assistants will deepen their understanding of student behavior, strengthen communication and encouragement skills, and learn practical tools they can immediately apply in classrooms and support spaces.

Outcomes

  • Develop practical strategies to build respectful and encouraging relationships with students
  • Strengthen understanding of trauma informed practices through a Positive Discipline lens
  • Learn brain-based engagement strategies that increase participation and retention
  • Build confidence in supporting emotional regulation and student success
  • Explore practical tools for communication, co-regulation, and collaboration
  • Reflect on their role as key contributors to classroom culture and belonging

Participants will earn a Certificate of Completion.

WHO IT'S FOR

Teaching Assistants, Learning Support Assistants, Inclusion Assistants, Classroom Support Staff, Student Support Personnel, and educators interested in strengthening relational and proactive support practices.

SCHEDULE

The three one-hour sessions will be held live at the same time on each date:

Tuesdays, 4:00-5:00 PM (Athens, Greece time)

  • October 13, 2026 (GMT+3)
  • October 20, 2026 (GMT+3)
  • October 27, 2026 (GMT+2)

Each session will be followed by an optional 15-minute Q&A and coaching conversation, for participants who wish to stay and continue the discussion.

REGISTRATION

School Registration Fees
  • NESA Member & Affiliate Schools: US$595
  • Non-Member Schools: US$795

Fees quoted are per school, and include unlimited attendance and access to session recordings for your school's TAs for the three sessions.

Please review the Cancellation Notice before registering.

About the Speaker

Joy Marchese
Joy Marchese

Founder & Director, Positive Discipline UK
LinkedIn

JOY MARCHESE is a leading global educational consultant, author, keynote speaker, and emotional architect with over 25 years of experience in education and wellbeing. As the Founder of Positive Discipline UK, she has empowered thousands of children, parents, and educators, creating environments where everyone can thrive.

Joy specializes in Social Emotional and Ethical Learning, developing courses and resources that foster social-emotional wellbeing. She is the co-author of Positive Discipline for Today’s Busy (& Overwhelmed) Parent, a Lead Trainer for the Positive Discipline Association, and a trainer for Training from the Back of the Room. Additionally, Joy serves as a facilitator and assessor for the Bridge Model.

Passionate about positive psychology, neuro-education, parenting, and organisational wellbeing, Joy offers valuable insights into modern parenting, education, and relationships, helping individuals cultivate a sense of belonging and significance in their lives.

Learn more at  joymarchese.com.

2026-2027 NESA NETWORKED LEARNING