Summary
The Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship with Best Practice Network is designed for those who want to start or develop a career supporting children in schools. The programme combines paid work in a school with structured training, allowing apprentices to gain real classroom experience while working towards a nationally recognised qualification.
What you will do at work
As a Teaching Assistant apprentice, you will work in a school setting supporting teachers and pupils on a day-to-day basis while completing your apprenticeship training.
You will:
- Support pupils during lessons, individually or in small groups
Help children with their learning, including reading, writing, and maths activities - Assist pupils with additional needs, following guidance from the teacher or SEN team
- Prepare classroom resources and help set up learning activities
- Support behaviour and encourage positive learning attitudes
- Help create a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment
- Supervise pupils during activities, break times, or school events when required
- Observe and learn from experienced staff to build confidence and skills
- Complete apprenticeship coursework and training as part of your role
- Work closely with teachers and other school staff to support pupils’ progress
- Throughout the apprenticeship, you’ll receive support from your school and tutor, helping you develop the skills, knowledge, and experience needed for a future career in education
Training
Teaching Assistant Level 3.
Requirements and skills
Skills
- Communication skills
- Customer care skills
- Problem solving skills
- Team working
- Initiative
- Non judgemental
- Patience
About this employer
Welcome toSt Bartholomew’s Church of England Primary School
We are a two-form entry church school set in the heart of Sydenham, South East London, where we serve a diverse community.
We are passionate about learning and enjoy challenging our children to think creatively in lots of different ways. Our children are supported by a fantastic staff team, who are all dedicated to educating the whole child. Based firmly on Christian values, the school prepares children for lifelong learning and for the ever-changing society we live in.
Our school values underpin everything we do in school:
Kindness, Respect and Perseverance
After this apprenticeship
After successfully completing the Teaching Assistant apprenticeship, there are several progression routes available within education, depending on experience and interest.
Possible next steps include:
- Teaching Assistant (qualified role) – continuing in the same setting with increased responsibility
- Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – supporting whole classes and leading learning activities
- Specialist support roles – such as SEND support or one-to-one pupil support
- Further apprenticeships or qualifications – including higher-level education or childcare pathways
Many apprentices go on to build long-term careers in education. The apprenticeship provides a strong foundation of classroom experience, confidence, and practical skills needed to progress within a school environment.
Things to consider
Applicants must:
- Be fully committed to completing the apprenticeship programme
- Have a genuine interest in working as a Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant
- Be willing and able to support children with additional needs in a school environment
- Be prepared to pass a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
- Be reliable, punctual, and able to work term time only
- Be happy to combine work with coursework and training requirements as part of the apprenticeship