Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools - Level 3

Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools - Level 3 Overview

This course will recognise and develop the skills of those who already work with children and young people within an educational setting as well as providing a programme of study to gain a recognised qualification for those or who wish to or already work within an educational setting

You may be employed or volunteering as a teaching assistant, cover supervisor, bilingual support assistant, subject support assistant, special educational needs assistant, or wish to become a volunteer teaching assistant within a school

Prior to this course you will be required to complete a ten-week induction course, Principles in Childcare and Education (PCE) to assess that this is the most appropriate progression route.

Entry requirements

You must be 19 years of age or over and be able to study at Level 3.

You must also be proficient in English and maths at a level 1 or higher.

You must undertake an interview, have two satisfactory references and complete a Disclosure and Barring Service check (criminal record check) if you are not employed in the setting.

Start dates and fees

The cost for this programme varies depending on various factors. Please see below:

Aged 19-23: The cost depends on prior qualifications and personal circumstances. Please see 'how to I apply?' for further details.

Aged 24+: The cost is £1,990 (up to July 2016). Please ask at enquiry or interview for support that may be available through the 24+ Advanced Learning Loan. The induction part of the course has a nominal fee. Please see 'how to I apply?' for further details.

Payment can be made in four consecutive instalments for the main programme if you are not eligible for remitted fees or the 24+ Advanced Learning Loan, or if you wish to pay the full cost yourself.

There are two intakes for this programme during the college year. Specific dates of enrolment can be provided on enquiry.

How long is the course?

The PCE Induction course is a ten-week course where you will be required to attend college each Wednesday evening at the Derby Road site between 6pm and 8.45pm.

The Level 3 Diploma Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools course is an additional 12 month course that follows on from the PCE course. You will be required to attend college on a Wednesday evening at the Derby Road site between 6pm and 8.45pm for the first 13 weeks. You will also attend college to meet with your assessor on mutually convenient dates and times throughout the programme for one-to-one tutorials.

In addition, for both of the above courses you will be required to be employed or volunteer in a school setting Year 1 or above for a minimum of 12 hours a week during the school term throughout the whole of each programme.

Location

• Derby Road

How will I be assessed?

This programme consists of a variety of units which are assessed by being observed in practice in the school or are knowledge-based written assignments.

Evidence for each unit is gathered using a selection of different methods including being observed in practice by an allocated assessor, answering written questions and producing written evidence of practice and knowledge.

What does the course lead to?

A fully-qualified teaching assistant status.

What will I study?

Best practice requirements around supporting children and young people’s learning in an educational establishment including subjects such as:

• Curriculum
• Health and safety
• Individual children's needs
• Teaching and learning strategies
• Equality and diversity
• The development of children and young people
• Behaviour management and positive practice

What can I go on to study?

Foundation Degree in Children and Young People's Services - Teaching Assistant.

How do I apply?

Contact Michelle Cresswell on: 01623 627191 ext 8076 or email michelle.cresswell@wnc.ac.uk