Teaching Assistant in Schools and Colleges - 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. It will also provide a programme of study to gain a recognised qualification; whether you already work within an educational setting or are someone who wishes to do so.
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 or college. This course can also be delivered as an apprenticeship and you may wish to speak to your employer or the college about this route.
On successful completion of this course students will be awarded the CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning.
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 do I apply?' for further details.
- Aged 24+: The cost is £2,225 (up to July 2018). Please ask for support that may be available through the Adult Learning Loan.
Payment can be made in four consecutive instalments for the main programme if you are not eligible for remitted fees or the 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.
| Start Date | Code | Annual Fee (Age) | Actions |
| over 19 |
| 20/09/2023 | 1869A101 | FREE* to £2225.00 | Apply |
| 17/01/2024 | 1869A104 | FREE* to £2225.00 | Apply |
* If you are aged 19-23 and studying your first Level 3 course then that course may be free. Please contact us for more details. If you are aged 19 or over and either studying a second Level 3 course or qualifying Level 4, 5 or 6 course you may be able to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the costs.
What will I study?
- Personal and professional development
- Child development/transitions
- Schools and colleges as organisations
- Safeguarding
- Health and safety
- Behaviour
- Speech, language and communication
- Supporting learning activities
- English/maths and ICT
- Special educational needs
- Bilingual learners
- Role of play
Entry requirements
- Prior to this course you will be required to complete a ten-week induction course, Principles in Childcare and Education (PCE) unless you are employed in a classroom environment working with children.
- You must be 19 years of age or over and be able to study at Level 3 (16 years or over for the apprenticeship route).
- You will need to have a successful DBS check.
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 6:00pm and 8.00pm.
The CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning 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 6:00pm and 8.00pm 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 or college setting Year 1 or above, for a minimum of 6 hours a week during the school/college term throughout the whole of each programme.
How will I be assessed?
This programme consists of a variety of units and evidence for each unit is gathered using a selection of different methods including:
- Being observed in practice by an allocated assessor in the school or college setting
- Answering written questions
- Producing written evidence of practice and knowledge
What does the course lead to?
A fully-qualified teaching assistant status.
What can I progress onto?
Career opportunities