Duration
Typical duration to gateway - 18 months (this does not include EPA period).

Occupation Profile
The programme allows the apprentice to develop a solid understanding of the supporting role in schools and provides a recognised qualification for employees within the sector. Assessment is through submission of evidence to demonstrate requirements are met to the expected standard followed by End Point Assessment (EPA). Teaching Assistants work in Primary, Special and Secondary education across all age ranges encompassing special educational needs and emotional vulnerabilities. The primary role of the Teaching Assistant is to support the class teacher to enhance pupils' learning either in groups or individually, ensuring pupils understand the work set, know their learning objectives and stay on task in order to make progress. Programme content includes: Understanding how pupils learn and develop The use of technology An appropriate knowledge of the curriculum and context you are working in Keeping Children Safe in Education Communication and team work Problem solving / ability to motivate pupils Adding value to education Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion

Entry Requirements
Applicants must: Be working within a teaching / learning support role Achieve the required level of Maths and English as part of the apprenticeship if a recognised qualification is not already held Be employed and have the support of their employer to undertake the programme

Commitment
6 hours a week (based on a 30 hour week) of a learner's contracted hours must be given to support the completion of their programme. Tutor led sessions are a mandatory part of the course along with any other learning activities set by the assessor or tutor. Maths and English may need to be undertaken in addition to the main qualification depending on previous attainment in these areas. It is likely that the learner will be required to undertake research, reading and write ups to support their learning. The programme requires 100% commitment from the learner & employer to ensure successful completion.

Delivery
Our blended approach means that our programmes are flexible and enable apprentices to experience a range of learning and support opportunities in a variety of formats such as online or at a local ACL centre. The apprentice will have a dedicated tutor who they will meet (online or face to face) once a month who will guide them through their apprenticeship and prepare them for their End Point Assessment. Reviews of progress are carried out every 12 weeks with the learner, their line manager and the tutor. Additional workshops and seminars will be available to all learners to support additional learning and the off job learning requirement.

Benefit to Learner
1. Develop a range of essential skills they can apply in their work place 2. Understanding of theories to support their practice 3. Improved confidence in their ability and role

Benefit for School
1. Cost effective staff training and development programme 2. Strong team players that support the needs of students and teachers

End Point Assessment (EPA)
End Point Assessment takes place at the end of the apprenticeship programme and is a comprehensive holistic assessment of the skills, knowledge and behaviours required as laid out in the apprenticeship standard. It is made up of: Practical observation followed by questioning Portfolio of evidence Professional discussion led by the appointed End Point Assessor and supported by your portfolio of evidence Learners will receive a pass or distinction upon the successful completion of the apprenticeship.

Progression
Progression Routes Once you have completed this qualification at Level 3, there are several progression routes available, dependant on your industry and job role: Level 5 Learning and Skills Teacher, Level 6 Teacher or higher education.