Level 3 Teaching Assistant (SEND) Standard

Portrait of teacher assisting little boy with homework in the classroom

Realise Your Potential

Empowering Education: The Level 3 Teaching Assistant (SEND) Apprenticeship

Join the Level 3 Teaching Assistant (SEND) Apprenticeship, an 18-month programme designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to excel in educational settings, including supporting students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This apprenticeship prepares you to assist teachers, promote inclusive education, and make a meaningful impact in the classroom.

Gain expertise in child development, 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, making a real difference in students' lives.

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Duration

18-Months

Qualification

Level 3 Certificate in SEND

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 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

End-Point Assessment

Professional Discussion

Observation

Learning Journey

Months 1–3: Foundation Knowledge

Learners begin by building a strong foundation in their role as teaching assistants. This phase includes an "Introduction to the Role of a Teaching Assistant," covering essential responsibilities and professional behaviours. They will also complete modules on "Health and Safety in Educational Settings," focusing on maintaining a safe learning environment, and "Safeguarding in Schools," which covers recognising signs of abuse and understanding safeguarding policies and procedures.
Months 4–6: Supporting Learning and Development

In this phase, learners explore the fundamentals of child development and learning theories, providing them with the knowledge needed to support diverse learners. They will also study "Supporting Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)" and "Inclusive Practices in Education," equipping them with the skills to ensure all students have equal access to educational opportunities.
Months 7–9: Behaviour Management and Communication

The focus here is on managing classroom behaviour and effective communication. Learners will engage with the "Behaviour Management Strategies" module, learning techniques to support positive behaviour and resolve conflicts. Additionally, the "Effective Communication and Professional Relationships" module will help them develop strong communication skills with students, teachers, and parents, promoting positive relationships in the school environment.
Months 10–12: Advanced Teaching Support

As learners progress, they will delve into more advanced aspects of teaching support. This includes "Curriculum Knowledge and Lesson Planning," where they will learn about the national curriculum and how to assist in lesson delivery. The "Assessment for Learning" module will teach them how to assess student progress effectively and provide constructive feedback that enhances learning outcomes.
Months 13–15: Preparation for Professional Practice

In the final structured learning phase, learners will focus on preparing for their professional roles. They will study "Reflective Practice and Continuous Professional Development (CPD)," encouraging ongoing self-assessment and growth. The "Working with External Agencies and Parents" module will teach them how to collaborate effectively with external professionals and build productive partnerships with parents to support student learning.
Months 15–18: End-Point Assessment (EPA)

The last phase is dedicated to comprehensive EPA preparation. Learners will consolidate their learning, engage in revision sessions, and participate in mock assessments to ensure they are fully prepared. They will finalise their portfolios and refine their skills in preparation for the professional discussion and observation components of the EPA, ensuring they meet the required standards for Level 3 Teaching Assistants.