Supporting Teaching & Learning in Schools Level 2
The Supporting Teaching & Learning in Schools Level 2 Certificate is the perfect starting point if you want to work as a Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, or Special Educational Needs (SEN) Assistant. Delivered on-campus with a choice of study schedules to accommodate adults, this course equips you with the knowledge and practical skills required to support teachers and pupils effectively in a primary, secondary, or specialist school setting.
You will learn about children and young people's development, how to safeguard their welfare, and the practical methods used to support positive behaviour and engaging learning activities. The programme combines classroom learning with a mandatory work placement in a school, ensuring you graduate with the hands-on experience employers look for.
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Sector Overview
The education sector is essential to society, and schools constantly require dedicated support staff to ensure pupils achieve their full potential. Teaching Assistants (TAs) and Learning Support Assistants play a vital role in classrooms across the UK, offering an incredibly rewarding career path with term-time working hours that are highly sought after by parents and career changers.
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Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for this course are:
- A reasonable standard of English and maths (Level 1 or above recommended)
- An enhanced DBS check will be required prior to undertaking the work placement
- Assessment and interview
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What will I study?
This course consists of mandatory units covering the essential aspects of school support:
- Child and young person development
- Safeguarding the welfare of children and young people
- Communication and professional relationships with children, young people, and adults
- Equality, diversity, and inclusion in work with children and young people
- Support children and young people's health and safety
- Support children and young people's positive behaviour
- Support learning activities
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How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed via:
- A portfolio of evidence
- Direct observation of your practical skills in a real school environment during your placement
- Tutor-marked assignments
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Enrichment
As an adult learner, you will be offered opportunities to actively engage with industry-related professionals to increase your personal and career development. This includes access to key industry guest speakers, such as experienced teachers and SEN coordinators, who will deliver insights to help you build your industry knowledge and expand your professional network.
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Work Experience
You must complete an external work placement/industry placement which is an essential part of the programme. Some of the opportunities will include placements with employers such as local primary, secondary, or specialist schools.
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Progression Opportunities
The completion of this course will allow you to progress onto:
- Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning
- Higher skills development programmes in education or special educational needs
- Higher level of Apprenticeship
- Employment as a Teaching Assistant, Learning Support Assistant, or SEN Assistant
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Alumni
Waltham Forest College is a vibrant and aspirational college and will support you to reach your career aspirations. Last year 90% of adult learners progressed onto a positive destination either to higher levels of study, employment, or an Apprenticeship.
