This Level 3 S.E.N course is designed for people who either are, or wish to become a Specialist Teaching Assistant.

S.E.N Teaching Assistants carry out a wide range of practical and administrative tasks under the direction of the class teacher and in the supervision and support of pupils’ learning. In doing so they are helping to make more time available for the teacher to teach.

There is a huge demand for S.E.N Teaching Assistants around the country but also many thousands of applicants for these positions. Most Local Education Authorities (L.E.As) will ask new Teaching Assistants to undergo some form of induction training. This helps to ensure they are familiar with the school and are clear about how to support teachers in the vital areas of numeracy, literacy and behaviour. Having this qualification will help you stand out from other applicants. As a Teaching Assistant you will be expected to support the teachers with their daily tasks in the classroom so that they can concentrate on teaching the children.

Your job title could also be a Classroom Assistant or Learning Support Assistant. Your specific duties would vary depending on the school and the age of the children, but would typically include:

• Preparing the classroom for lessons
• Listening to the children read, reading to them or telling them stories
• Assisting children who need extra support to complete tasks
• Helping the teacher to plan learning activities and complete records
• Supervising group activities and displaying work
• Looking after children who are upset or after an accident
• Playing educational games with the children
• Encouraging younger children to learn through play
• Helping with outings and sporting events
• Carrying out routine administrative tasks

You would also support children with particular individual needs, working one-to-one or in small groups. With experience you may lead some classes.

In some schools you could have a special skill, such as literacy, numeracy, special educational needs or music. Bi-lingual Teaching Assistants are often employed in schools where many of the children’s first language is not English.

Our Level 3 S.E.N course is the official government Level 3 course and Brighter Learning is very proud of the fact that schools around the UK have funded their Teaching Assistant on our courses.

Teaching Assistants work under the direction and supervision of teachers in order to help promote effective learning and teaching. They carry out tasks delegated to them by teachers and refer back to teachers on issues requiring professional expertise. The Teaching Assistant is able to contribute in four main areas:

• Supporting the teacher
• Supporting the pupil
• Supporting the school
• Supporting the curriculum

There is no experience or previous qualifications required for enrolment on this course, you will be taught the full level 3 syllabus once you are enrolled. You may enrol at anytime of the year.

What can I expect to earn?

• London fringe: £16,856–£26,052
• Outer London: £18,789–£27,992
• Inner London: £19,893–£29,088
• Rest of England and Wales: £15,817–£25,016

The figures above are for ‘unqualified teachers’, including T.As, but to get an exact figure you need to contact your local council directly.

You do not need to be in a work placement within a school to complete this course.

This is a fully supported S.E.N Teaching Assistant: Supporting Teaching + Learning in Schools Level 3 home study course. All the printed course materials have been expertly written in a clear and concise manner to ensure you understand each module and the college staff will be available to help and advise as needed.

If you are serious about becoming a Teaching Assistant we hope that you will agree that this Level 3 course with all the tutor, student, and career support will be the very best way of entering into this rewarding profession.