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Training and qualifications for teaching assistants |
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The DCSF is aware that a large and diverse number of training courses already exist for teaching assistants at both national and local levels. They usually include some elements of school-based training but vary considerably in content.
Over the last four years the Department has introduced high-quality induction programmes for teaching assistants who work in primary and secondary schools, so that newly recruited assistants are well-informed about the context in which they are working, and know how to support teachers in the key areas of behaviour, literacy and numeracy. These training materials can be viewed by clicking on to the appropriate links in the left window.
Visit the Employers' Organisation for local government website to view and download the National Occupational Standards for teaching assistants. Standards have been agreed across the UK for TA work.
National Vocational Qualifications at levels 2 and 3 for teaching assistants based on the National Occupational Standards became available from September 2002. These are now being offered by some schools, LEAs and colleges. The advantage of these new qualifications is that they involve demonstrating competence in performing the job, rather than just learning the theory.
Revised guidance on the NVQs for teaching assistants entitled 'Qualifications for Teaching Assistants' is available; aimed at LEA officers responsible for the training and qualifications of teaching assistants but it may also be of interest to teaching assistants themselves and training providers.
Some teaching assistants take higher-level courses, for example in some areas, the Specialist Teaching Assistant Course (STAC) is available which combines higher education with practical study.
In addition, those who choose to do so, and have the relevant skills and experience, will in the future be able to access training to meet the new higher level teaching assistant (HLTA) Standards. Details about the standards and training routes for the HLTA role and frequently asked questions are available on the Teacher Training Agency HLTA page.
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