Free Level 3 Teaching Assistant Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Matthew Boulton College, with daytime sessions that fit around other commitments. You'll build the knowledge and practical skills needed to support learning across primary, secondary, and further education settings. The course runs over 41 weeks part-time, giving you time to apply what you learn in your school role as you go. To enrol, you'll need at least 19 years old, four GCSEs at grade 3 or above (including English and maths, or Level 1 Functional Skills), a DBS check, and at least one year of school-based experience at 12 or more hours per week.
Who this course is for
This course is ideal for anyone working as a Learning Support Practitioner or
looking to progress in that role. It provides a strong foundation of knowledge
and practical skills that can be applied in classrooms and learner support roles
across primary, secondary and further education settings.
Entry requirements
You must be at least 19 years old with a minimum of four GCSEs at grade 3 (D)
or above, including English and maths, or Level 1 Functional Skills. A DBS check
is required. You�ll also need at least one year of experience working in a
school setting for 12+ hours per week, either employed or voluntary.
What you will learn
You'll develop strategies to support pupils with a range of learning needs in classroom settings.
You'll learn how to assist teachers in planning and delivering lessons across different subjects.
You'll understand child development and how it shapes learning at different ages and stages.
You'll explore how to promote positive behaviour and wellbeing in school environments.
You'll learn how to communicate effectively with teachers, pupils, and parents or carers.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep learners safe.
You'll develop skills for supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
How you will learn
Learning takes place in the classroom at Matthew Boulton College, with daytime sessions across 41 weeks. You'll be assessed through a combination of written assignments, observations in your school placement, and a portfolio of evidence drawn from your workplace experience. Assessment is ongoing throughout the course rather than through a single end exam.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Matthew Boulton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Teaching assistant: supporting pupils in primary or secondary school classrooms.
Learning support assistant: working one-to-one or in small groups with pupils who need extra help.
SEND support assistant: specialist support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
Higher level teaching assistant (HLTA): taking on greater responsibility in lesson delivery and planning.
Cover supervisor: managing classes in the short-term absence of a teacher.
Early years teaching assistant: supporting learning and development in nursery or reception settings.
Further education learning support worker: assisting learners in colleges and adult education settings.
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training: a step toward teaching roles in further education and adult learning.
Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training: a fuller teaching qualification recognised for FE teaching posts.
HLTA Status Assessment: formal recognition as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, with increased responsibility and pay.
Undergraduate degree in Education or Primary Teaching: for those considering a move into qualified teacher status (QTS) routes.
