Introduction to Teaching Assistant Level 5 Apprenticeship

This webinar was hosted by our Curriculum Manager - Emma Reading, CPD Lead - Dean Boyce, Funding Co-ordinator - James Steward, and Michael Fennessy from our sales team.

The webinar introduced the Specialist Teaching Assistant Level 5 Apprenticeship, designed for experienced teaching assistants aiming to advance in specialist areas such as SEND, Social and Emotional Well-being, or Curriculum Provision. 

 

 

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Questions from the webinar:

 Who is eligible for this apprenticeship?

Candidates must be working in a suitable role relevant to their chosen specialism, have UK residency for over three years, and complete Level 2 maths and English on programme before Gateway assessment if not already qualified.

 What are the specialisms offered?

The apprenticeship includes SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), social and emotional well-being, and curriculum provision. Each specialism has tailored group sessions to support targeted development.

 What are the progression routes after this apprenticeship?

Pathways include moving towards HLTA (Higher Level Teaching Assistant) status or considering a Level 6 Teacher Apprenticeship if teaching is a goal.

 What are the employer responsibilities for this apprenticeship?

Employers need to provide six hours of off-the-job training per week, offer a mentor, and facilitate the apprentice’s monthly virtual sessions and overall development.

 How is the programme funded?

It’s fully funded for those working in local authority schools or those paying into the apprenticeship levy. For non-levy payers, the government offers co-funding, covering 95% of the cost, or levy transfers are available for additional support.

 What’s the difference between HLTA and the Level 5?

HLTAs may cover whole classes under appropriate supervision of a qualified teacher, while our Level 5 apprentices become specialists in SEND, Wellbeing or curriculum, depending on their chosen pathway.

 Do I need HLTA to enrol in the Level 5 programme?

No, HLTA is not required for enrolment. However, HLTA can be a complementary next step after completing the Level 5 apprenticeship.

 Is the Level 5 qualification equivalent to a foundation degree?

It is not a Foundation degree and different universities will have their own policies as to whether they consider it equivalent. We will update this information when we have clear guidance of universities that will accept it for progression onto a level 6.

 What are the benefits of completing the Level 5 apprenticeship?

It enhances career progression, boosts skills in a specialised area, builds confidence and communication skills, and provides a fully funded qualification valued at £12,000.

 Can multiple staff members from the same school enrol?

Yes, if the apprenticeship levy pot allows, multiple apprentices can be supported. Alternatively, levy transfers are an option for additional funding.

 Is the SEND specialism designed for mainstream or specialist schools?

It’s suitable for both. The programme tailors support to each apprentice’s individual needs, whether in a mainstream or specialist setting. And we are constantly working with schools to improve the course for the next cohort. 

Adidtionally your learning will be applied to your situation throughout the duration of the course. If you work in a specialist school, your teaching will be applicable to your situation. 

  Do I need to choose my specialism before starting?

Yes, as each specialism is a separate track with tailored content, apprentices need to confirm their chosen specialism at the outset.

  Are virtual classroom sessions scheduled during school hours?

Yes, sessions are scheduled within typical school hours, with options for morning or afternoon to align with off-the-job training requirements.

  Can Curriculum Provision be a subject-specific specialism, like maths?

Yes, curriculum provision allows for subject-specific focus, such as maths, music, PE, etc. Apprentices will engage in group sessions with diverse specialisms but receive individualised support.

  If I work full-time, how much time is dedicated to off-the-job training?

Full-time apprentices are required to have six hours per week of off-the-job training, while part-time apprentices must allocate 20% of their working hours for this purpose.

 What does off-the-job training include?

This can involve activities like shadowing, mentoring, attending training events, interactive online learning, and completing tasks that build new skills and knowledge relevant to the apprenticeship.

 Do I need to complete Level 3 before joining Level 5?

Not necessarily. Those with extensive experience may qualify directly for Level 5, while Level 3 is recommended for those new to the teaching assistant role.

  If I work full-time, how much time is dedicated to off-the-job training?

Full-time apprentices are required to have six hours per week of off-the-job training, while part-time apprentices must allocate 20% of their working hours for this purpose.

 Can I switch specialisms during the programme?

No, specialisms need to be decided at enrolment since the curriculum and sessions are specialised from the start 

 How does the apprenticeship benefit my current role?

The apprenticeship develops practical skills, deepens knowledge in specialist areas, and enhances communication, confidence, and effectiveness in supporting students and colleagues.