Level 3 Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You train while working in a school, supporting teachers and pupils in real classroom settings. The course typically takes 14 months to complete. You'll need GCSEs at grades 4 to 9 (A* to C) in maths, English, and science to enrol. Some experience in a school support role, or a Level 2 Supporting Teaching and Learning qualification, is also useful. The specialist support for teaching and learning in schools qualification covers teaching support, classroom assistance, and learning support across a range of responsibilities.
Who this course is for
If you are passionate about supporting pupils, parents, and colleagues in schools, then this Level 3 Teaching Assistant course may be the right fit for you. This course is designed for Learning Support staff who require competency across a broad range of responsibilities, and will provide you with training for teaching, classroom, and learning support. If you are interested in pursuing job titles such as Teaching Assistant, Classroom Assistant, or Learning Support Assistant, then this qualification is definitely worth considering. With this certification, you will gain the skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the lives of pupils and the school community.
Entry requirements
You must have GCSEs grades 9-4 (A*-C) in maths, English and science. You may already have experience or have completed L2 Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools.
What you will learn
You'll develop skills in supporting teaching and learning activities in a school setting.
You'll learn how to assist teachers with whole-class, group, and one-to-one work.
You'll understand how to support pupils with different learning needs.
You'll build knowledge of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities.
You'll learn how to communicate effectively with pupils, parents, and colleagues.
You'll understand school policies, procedures, and your role within them.
You'll develop the competence to work across a broad range of learning support responsibilities.
How you will learn
This is a work-based qualification. You build evidence of your competence through your day-to-day role in a school. Assessment includes observation of your practice in the workplace, a portfolio of evidence, and professional discussion. You'll be assessed against the requirements of the Diploma while working under the direction of a qualified teacher.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Chelmsford College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Teaching assistant: support teachers and pupils in primary or secondary schools.
Classroom assistant: help manage classroom activities and resources.
Learning support assistant: work with pupils who need additional academic or pastoral support.
Higher level teaching assistant (HLTA): take on greater responsibility under teacher direction.
Special educational needs (SEN) support assistant: work with pupils with identified SEN needs.
What you could study next
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) status: a natural next step if you want to take on more responsibility in the classroom.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training: useful if you're considering adult or further education teaching.
A degree in Education or a school-based initial teacher training route: for those who want to qualify as a teacher.
