Level 3 Sport Teaching Assistant | PE Career & Training Guide

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Level 3 Sports Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship: Empowering Students Through Physical Education and Sports

Join the Level 3 Sports Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship, an 18-month programme designed to provide the skills and knowledge needed to excel in educational settings with a focus on physical education and sports. This apprenticeship prepares you to assist teachers, promote physical activity, and make a meaningful impact in the classroom and on the field.

Gain expertise in child development, sports coaching, safeguarding, and educational technologies, all while gaining hands-on experience. With structured learning and end-point assessments (EPA), you’ll be ready for a rewarding career, fostering both the physical and academic growth of students.

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Duration

18-Months

Qualification

Level 3 CPD in SEND, Sports and Physical Education

Level 3 Teaching Assistant Standard

Learning Style

Live online training, Face-to-face and Online content

Modules

The following modules have been carefully crafted to ensure that every learner masters the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required by the Level 3 Sport Teaching Assistant apprenticeship standard. The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to provide a strong foundation in essential educational support practices, progressing to more specialised and advanced concepts as the programme unfolds.

Pupil Development

Technology

Understand & Support Assessment for Learning

Curriculum Planning

Health & Safety

Keeping Children Safe in Education

Supporting Children with SEND

Professional Development

Sport Setup

Sports Engagement

Sport Partnership

End-Point Assessment

Professional Discussion

Observation

Learning Journey

Months 1–3: Foundation Knowledge

Learners begin by building a strong foundation in the role of a Sports Teaching Assistant. This phase includes an introduction to safeguarding in physical education, understanding child development within a sporting context, and professional conduct. They will also explore how to establish a safe and inclusive sporting environment, ensuring all students can participate. Learners will also begin to understand the impact of school policies on physical activity and sports programmes.
Months 4–6: Supporting Learning and Development

In this phase, learners focus on the fundamentals of supporting sports-based learning. They will gain practical experience assisting with physical education lessons, lunchtime sports clubs, and extracurricular activities. Key modules include Sports-Specific Child Development and strategies to support individualised sports coaching. Learners will also study how to help students set and achieve physical fitness goals in line with the school's overall educational objectives.
Months 7–9: Behaviour Management and Communication

This phase emphasises managing groups during sports activities and PE lessons. Learners will develop strategies for maintaining discipline in larger classes and promoting teamwork through sportsmanship and communication. They will also explore techniques for motivating less active students, using positive reinforcement and coaching strategies to build confidence in physical skills.
Months 10–12: Advanced Teaching Support

As learners progress, they will focus on advanced skills to support physical education. Key areas include coaching techniques, managing sports equipment, and assisting with fitness assessments. Learners will also learn how to adapt sports sessions for students with different physical abilities, ensuring inclusivity in every session. They will continue to provide individualised support during sports and physical activity sessions, working closely with PE teachers to enhance student engagement.
Months 13–15: Preparation for Professional Practice

In preparation for their professional role, learners will focus on refining their skills in sports coaching, preparing for end-point assessments, and supporting students in both group and individual sports settings. Learners will complete a Sports-Specific Continuing Professional Development (CPD) module to expand their knowledge in areas such as fitness programming and injury prevention, ensuring they are fully equipped to support student well-being through physical education.
Months 15–18: End-Point Assessment (EPA)

The final phase includes a comprehensive EPA, where learners will demonstrate their ability to apply sports coaching principles in real-world school settings. Assessors will observe their skills in action, including managing a sports session and ensuring student safety. Learners will also participate in a professional discussion to showcase their understanding of sports teaching assistant practices, alongside their portfolio of evidence documenting their learning journey.

Level 3 Sport Teaching Assistant Standard