Emma began her Level 2 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship in 2019 at William Howard School, part of Cumbria Education Trust.
Although she felt unsure at first, she quickly settled into online learning and enjoyed the sessions. She felt well supported by both her tutor and her workplace mentor.
One of the reasons Emma was drawn to the role was her own experience as a parent of a child waiting for an autism diagnosis. She understood how important the right support in school can be.
Emma successfully completed her Level 2 apprenticeship and was kept on by the school to progress onto Level 3.
Progressing Through Challenges
When Emma began her Level 3 apprenticeship, life was busy. During this time, she was managing long Covid and a heart condition, supporting a child awaiting diagnosis, planning her wedding and adjusting to her eldest son moving out for work.
Despite this, she stayed focused on her apprenticeship. With support from her tutor, mentor and colleagues, she met her deadlines and completed the programme, achieving a Distinction in her professional discussion and a Pass in her observation.
She was then offered a full-time permanent position as a Learning Support Assistant with key worker responsibilities – a role she absolutely loves!
Taking the Next Step
A vacancy later became available within the trust to work across primary schools supporting inclusion. The role involved helping schools identify children with additional needs, suggesting practical strategies and supporting referrals where needed.
Emma applied the day before the closing date. She attended the interview and was offered the position the following week.
In this role, she:
- Plans visits around school timetables and key pupils
- Writes observation notes and reports for teachers
- Advises on classroom adaptations
- Signposts professional services
- Supports referrals for children without a diagnosis or EHCP
Emma was initially concerned about leaving her previous team short staffed, but she approached the move with organisation and clear communication.
Continuing Professional Development
Emma understands the importance of ongoing development. Since completing her Level 3, she has undertaken additional training in Autism, Makaton and Adverse Childhood Experiences.
Her role has continued to develop. She now supports referrals for students presenting with ADHD symptoms and works with the Fairfield Centre to triage cases. She stepped into this responsibility to help ensure that students with ADHD receive consistent, individualised support.
In April 2025, Emma began the Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant apprenticeship with System People, continuing her professional growth while working at William Howard School.
Looking Ahead
Emma’s long-term goal is to work within a SENDIASS team, supporting parents through the EHCP process and helping families feel informed and confident in meetings.
Reflecting on her journey so far, Emma says:
“It was all worthwhile. I can already see the difference I am making at work and for my own family. I am balancing life, health, family and work in my own way and I love it.”
For National Careers Week, Emma’s story is a reminder that career progression doesn’t always happen in one big leap. Sometimes it’s about taking the next step, building your skills and saying yes to opportunities when they come up.