Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Level 3

This qualification is for those who are employed, or are working voluntarily, in schools as teaching assistants and have experience of directly supporting the teaching and learning of pupils. The role of teaching assistant has developed and become professionalised in recent years; therefore greater breadth and level of responsibility are required in order to gain the Level 3 qualification. Applicants will normally have achieved the Level 2 Certificate or a similar qualification (eg; Childcare) and be an effective member of the school team. A placement in school of 2 days (12 hours) a week is required as well as DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance and attendance at one sessioin at college for the duration of the course. You will be responsible for obtaining and paying for your own DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, which has replaced the CRB check, in negotiation with your school placement.

Level 3 learners will be expected to work independently on research, school related tasks and assignments. Learners should be aware this will form a large part of the course.

Applicants will be required to attend an induction session (date to be confirmed). They are also required to take an initial assessment in literacy and numeracy, or produce proof of a recent qualification such as Adult Literacy Level 2, prior to enrolment on the course. Candidates will also be encouraged to improve literacy and numeracy skills where necessary. For further information or to request an application form contact stlsadmin@gloscol.ac.uk

Diploma in Specialist Support for Teaching & Learning in Schools. Opportunity to access Higher Education. Eg. Foundation Degree. Tutor will give advice.

Of the 2011-2012 cohort, all but 3 candidates had secured paid work by September 2012.

Becki Gleeson left Gloscol in 2010 she said; "I was working at an insurance company and felt that I was not being stretched enough so gained a voluntary placement in a local primary school which I loved. I enrolled on the level 2 course in Gloucester which I completed and this inspired me to a change in career direction. I decided that I would like to undertake teacher training so I enrolled on the level 3 course to continue my school experience while applying to university. I was successful in gaining a place at a university in London but this was dependent on my level 3 being completed successfully. I completed in the summer and that September took my place at university, which was hard but enjoyable work. I have just finished my degree and I'm hoping to gain employment at a school in Bristol in the near future."

Please contact the College on 0845 155 2020 for further details