Teaching Assistant Level 3

This apprenticeship (equivalent to A-Level) is designed for those working or wanting to work in primary, secondary or special education. As a Teaching Assistant, you’ll work closely with the class teacher to help pupils understand tasks, stay focused, and make progress in their learning. Some Teaching Assistants also support pupils with special educational needs (SEN) or take on specialist roles in areas like literacy, numeracy or technology.

You’ll learn how to:

• Support teaching and learning across all key stages
• Motivate and encourage pupils in their academic and social development
• Use technology effectively to enhance learning
• Support assessments and track pupil progress
• Adapt support for pupils with SEND or EHCPs
• Promote equality, inclusion and safeguarding

Who is it for?

This apprenticeship is ideal for you if you:

• Have a genuine interest in working with children and young people
• Want to work in a school or educational support setting
• Are keen to develop a long-term career in education

Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll build the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to become a confident and professional Teaching Assistant.

Knowledge

• How pupils learn and how to support their development
• Using technology to support learning
• Curriculum knowledge and assessment for learning
• The importance of safeguarding and keeping children safe

Skills

• Support teachers in delivering engaging lessons
• Work with small groups or individuals to support literacy and numeracy
• Use effective communication and teamwork
• Problem-solve and adapt to pupil needs

Behaviours

• Promote equality, diversity and inclusion
• Build positive relationships and collaborate with others
• Demonstrate a professional and flexible attitude to work
• Embrace change and strive for continuous improvement

Programme details

• Duration: Typically 14 to 20 months
• Delivery: Monthly live tutor-led Zoom sessions, supported self-study, and 1-to-1 tutorials
• Online learning: Interactive modules delivered through our digital platform
• Reviews: Regular 1-to-1 reviews, observations and mock assessments
• Start dates: Flexible, all year round

How Long Does It Take?

• The apprenticeship typically takes 14 to 20 months to complete
• Includes live Zoom sessions, self-study, online learning and tutor reviews
• Ends with an End Point Assessment (EPA), which includes:
  • A practical observation in your workplace
  • A professional discussion supported by your portfolio of evidence

What Happens After?

Once qualified, you’ll be ready to:

• Continue working as a Teaching Assistant in primary, secondary, or special education
• Progress onto a Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant apprenticeship
• Move into senior roles such as Lead TA or Learning Support Coordinator
• Explore routes into teacher training if you want to pursue a teaching career

Hear from a Learner – Max’s Story:

“I work across key stages in a small rural primary school and support two different teachers – one in maths and the other in literacy. I’ve developed a natural talent for working with children with autism and support a key pupil every day. I’ve even started a computer club at school, which the pupils love! This apprenticeship has really helped me grow. – Max”