Learning Development

About the course

Did you know you can work as a teaching assistant and complete an Apprenticeship at the same time? City College Plymouth offers the opportunity to complete Apprenticeships in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools at either intermediate or advanced level. These Apprenticeships are for those who are providing support in the classroom. After all, teachers aren’’t the only ones who make a difference to learning in schools. Learning support staff, such as teaching assistants, play a vital role in today’s classrooms by making sure students get the most out of their lessons. They work with teachers, carry out duties like lesson preparation, and work with small groups or individuals, allowing the teacher to concentrate on teaching the class. Some learning support staff specialise in areas like music or special needs. As an intermediate level apprentice, you will gain valuable experience and occupational competence within your workplace setting. You will be employed and your job role will include working under the direction of a qualified teacher supporting individual or groups of pupils in a primary, secondary or specialist school from the age of four to 19 years. Most of your training/learning will take place within your workplace. On completion of the Apprenticeship, you will have gained the skills to be a great teaching assistant – with a qualification covering a variety of supporting teaching and learning areas. As an advanced apprentice, you’ll work under the close supervision of a class teacher. Your duties will vary depending on how the teachers you work with plan their lessons and handle day-to-day classroom activities – however, you could find yourself supervising arts and crafts activities, helping with outings, or reading to the class.