Free Teaching Assistant Level 2 Course. Study online. You study at your own pace, so the course fits around your school hours and home life. It covers how to support teachers and pupils in reception, primary, and secondary settings. You'll need to be working or volunteering regularly in a school to complete the skills-based elements. The course runs to around 108 hours part-time. A level 2 teaching assistant qualification shows schools you have the knowledge and practical skills for the role.
Who this course is for
This course is aimed at people new to the role of teaching assistant or learning support, in reception, primary and secondary education. You can be in a paid or volunteer role, but you will need to have regular hours with your school/placement prior to and during the course. If you are currently in a position that supports teaching and learning, this course can help you learn new skills and achieve a nationally recognised qualification.
Entry requirements
You will need to be over 19, and working or volunteering regularly in a school environment, that allows you to demonstrate the skills-based part of the qualification. There are no formal entry requirements for this course, but you will need an appropriate level of literacy to complete your qualification and up to 2 hours per week study time.
What you will learn
You'll understand the role of a teaching assistant and how schools are organised.
You'll learn how to support teachers in planning and delivering lessons.
You'll develop skills to support pupils' learning across different subjects and age groups.
You'll understand how to help pupils with additional needs or learning difficulties.
You'll learn how to communicate effectively with children, teachers, and parents.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to keep children safe.
You'll build knowledge of child development and how pupils learn.
How you will learn
You study online and complete work-based evidence gathered in your school or placement. Assessment includes written assignments and a portfolio of evidence showing your skills in practice. You'll need up to two hours of study time per week alongside your regular school hours. Devon Adult Education will guide you through the requirements before you start.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Devon Adult Education will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Teaching assistant: support teachers and pupils day to day in school
Learning support assistant: work one-to-one with pupils who need extra help
Special educational needs (SEN) support assistant: assist pupils with additional needs
Classroom assistant: help manage the classroom and resources
Early years teaching assistant: support children in reception and nursery settings
Cover supervisor: supervise classes when the teacher is absent
What you could study next
Level 3 Award in Education and Training: broadens your knowledge of teaching and learning; useful if you want to move into a more senior support role or explore teaching.
Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning: a natural next step that deepens your skills and may open doors to higher-grade TA roles.
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS): the route to becoming a fully qualified teacher if you want to lead a classroom.
