About the course

This Apprenticeship will enable you to successfully support the learning and development of both Primary and Secondary school children. You may be working in a one-to-one capacity or responsible for groups of children, while working alongside a teacher in the classroom. The primary role of the Teaching Assistant is to support the class teacher to enhance pupils’ learning either in groups or individually, ensuring pupils understand the work set, know their learning objectives and stay on task in order to make progress. Promoting self-belief, social inclusion and a high self-esteem play an integral part to pupils’ well-being; ensuring pupils thrive in a positive, nurturing, safe environment. It is an active role supporting the learner to access the curriculum. Teaching Assistants are good role models, act with honesty and integrity, take part in team meetings; contribute to planning and class activities. Promoting Fundamental British Values through spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and positive behaviours are crucial in contributing to improved pupil progress and development.

Start Date/s

01/08/2025

Entry Requirements

Whilst any entry requirements will be a matter for individual employers, typically an apprentice might be expected to have already achieved 5 GCSEs, including Maths and English, Grade C or above or 4/5 (new grading). Some employers will accept other relevant qualifications and experience, including a relevant Level 2 qualification. However, if you do not hold GCSEs in Maths and English there is an opportunity for you to complete Functional Skills.

Assessment

Full time apprentices will spend typically 18 months on-programme working towards the apprenticeship standard, with off-the-job training. The EPA should only start once the employer is satisfied that the apprentice is consistently working at, or above, the level set out in the standard, the pre-requisite gateway requirements for EPA have been met and that they can be evidenced to an EPAO. The employer may wish to take advice from the apprentice’s training provider(s). As a gateway requirement, apprentices must achieve English and mathematics at level 2 prior to taking their EPA. In addition, they will need to complete a portfolio of evidence to support the professional discussion. The EPA must be completed within a 3 month period after the apprentice has met the EPA gateway requirements. The EPA consists of two distinct assessment methods: · Practical observation with questions & answers · Professional discussion supported by a portfolio of evidence. Performance in the EPA will determine the apprenticeship grade of distinction, pass or fail.

Careers & Progression

On successful completion of this course you may progress to a university course such as the Foundation Degree in Children Young People and their Services, and the BA (Hons) in Children, Schools and Families. Careers that this course may lead to include Teaching Assistant, Higher Level Teaching Assistant or Teacher.

Apprenticeships are an increasingly attractive option for employers of all sizes wanting to bring new talent into their business. An Apprentice can be a solution for your business if you want to: • Develop new talent to meet your needs • Free up existing staff to take on more responsibility • Give your team new skills and energy • Give a young person a career opportunity.