About this qualification
This qualification provides learners with an in-depth understanding of the knowledge and skills needed when working directly with children and young people in school and college environments. It covers all aspects of specialist support, including planning; delivering and reviewing assessment strategies to support learning alongside the teacher; bilingual support; special needs support, and personal development and reflective practice. This qualification is mapped against the following occupational standard ST0454: Teaching Assistant (Level 3) Version 1.1.
Who is it suitable for?
This qualification is aimed at learners working in roles that offer specialist support for pupils’ learning in primary, secondary or special schools, as well as colleges and alternative provision.
What are the entry requirements?
Registration is at the discretion of the centre in accordance with equality legislation and should be made on the NCFE Portal. However, learners must be aged 19 or above to undertake this qualification.
There are no specific prior skills/knowledge a learner must have for this qualification. However, learners may find it helpful if they have already achieved a level 2 qualification.
Centres are responsible for ensuring that all learners are capable of achieving the learning outcomes (LOs) and complying with the relevant literacy, numeracy, and health and safety requirements.
Learners registered on this qualification should not undertake another qualification at the same level, or with the same/a similar title, as duplication of learning may affect funding eligibility.
How is this qualification structured?
This qualification consists of 16 mandatory units.
How is it assessed?
This qualification is internally assessed and externally quality assured.
How many credits are required to complete it?
53.
How long will it take to complete this qualification?
The qualification can usually be completed in 12 to 18 months.
Do you need to be working to take this qualification?
As learners need to show competence in both skills and knowledge, they will need to be working or be on a practical placement for the of the taught programme of study. This placement or work will need to be in a learning environment (school or college). It is recommended that the learner undertakes 200 hours of placement in a real work environment, to be completed throughout the duration of the qualification before certification.
The hours above are recommendations, not mandatory minimum placement hours. They are therefore not part of the TQT calculation.
What related qualifications can you progress to?
Learners can progress onto higher education qualifications in teaching and learning, early years education or special educational needs.
Which type of job roles can you apply for on completion?
On completion, learners can progress onto the following job roles:
- teaching assistant
- assistant teacher
- classroom assistant
- learning support assistant
- specialist curriculum support
Funding for our qualifications
This qualification may be eligible for funding. For further guidance on funding, please contact your local funding provider.