Level 1 Teaching Assistant Course in Leicester – Leicester Adult Education College

Cost£810.00
Duration7 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start28 Oct 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Teaching Assistant Course Level 1 in Leicester. Classes run at Leicester Adult Education College, part-time during the day. You'll have an initial assessment, including a vocational and English assessment, to confirm this is the right level for you. A minimum of Entry Level 3 English is required to enrol. The course runs over 12 weeks and covers the foundations of teaching and learning in a school setting. It suits anyone fitting study around other commitments, as classes are daytime and part-time. The qualification is completed online, so confidence with digital skills is essential.

Who this course is for

The Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Schools is an accredited, recognised qualification, which is designed to provide you with a foundational understanding of the teaching and learning environment within schools. Perfect for those exploring a career in education, this qualification offers an excellent starting point for roles such as teaching assistant, office staff, or other positions within a school setting.

Entry requirements

To enrol, you will need to undertake a vocational and English initial assessment to ensure this course is suitable for you. Confidence using digital skills is essential, as the qualification is completed online.

A minimum of Entry 3 level English is required.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how teaching and learning works in a school environment.
  • You'll develop an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of school support staff.
  • You'll learn about safeguarding and the duty of care schools have toward children.
  • You'll gain knowledge of how schools are organised and how staff work together.
  • You'll build awareness of professional behaviour and conduct expected in a school setting.

How you will learn

Classes are delivered in the classroom at Leicester Adult Education College. The qualification itself is completed online, so you will need confidence using digital tools to submit your work. Assessment is based on the online qualification tasks and activities. Your tutor will support you through the course in class and guide you through the online elements.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Leicester Adult Education College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need access to a device and confidence using digital skills, as the qualification is completed online.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Teaching assistant. Support pupils in primary or secondary school classrooms.
  • Learning support assistant. Work one-to-one with pupils who need extra help.
  • School office administrator. Handle admin and communications in a school setting.
  • Cover supervisor. Supervise classes under teacher direction during short absences.
  • Nursery assistant. Support early years learning in a school nursery.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools. The natural next step after this Award, and a recognised teaching assistant qualification.
  • Level 3 Award or Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning. Moves you toward a more senior teaching assistant role.
  • Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma. A fuller qualification for those aiming to take on greater responsibility in the classroom.