Teaching Assistant Level 3

Teaching Assistants play a vital role in education settings, including primary and secondary schools, special schools, alternative provision, and further education institutions such as sixth forms and colleges. They work across all age ranges, supporting learners at every stage.

The main purpose of this role is to support the class teacher in helping learners progress and develop, whether in small groups or one-to-one. Teaching Assistants:

• Ensure learners understand their work and learning objectives
• Encourage positive learning behaviours to help learners succeed
• Deliver individual and small group teaching under the guidance of a qualified teacher
• Use a range of strategies to support learners of different abilities

They may also work with learners who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) or those with social, emotional, and mental health challenges.

Qualification

On successful completion, apprentices will achieve a Teaching Assistant Level 3 Apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship details

The Teaching Assistant Level 3 Apprenticeship equips apprentices with the core skills, knowledge, and behaviours required for a successful career in childcare.

Knowledge

• How children and young people learn and develop
• Effective teaching strategies and learning interventions
• The curriculum, assessment, and feedback cycle
• Safeguarding, Prevent, and health & safety requirements
• Supporting learner wellbeing and mental health
• Using technology to enhance learning
• Equality, diversity, and inclusion in education

Skills

• Support and encourage independent learning
• Adapt communication and resources for different learners
• Apply behaviour management strategies
• Deliver learning activities and interventions
• Observe, assess, and provide constructive feedback
• Use technology safely and effectively
• Build positive relationships with learners, teachers, and professionals

Behaviours

• Act professionally and respectfully
• Be a positive role model
• Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion
• Work collaboratively with the school community
• Commit to reflective practice and continuous improvement

Delivery 

This apprenticeship blends on-the-job experience with structured off-the-job training, giving your employee practical skills and knowledge to excel in their role.

Key elements include:

• Completing the required off-the-job training hours
• Attending mandatory monthly tutor-led sessions
• Recording independent study in a reflective learning log, capturing experiences, progress, and achievements
• Receiving regular support from a Skills Development Tutor, who works closely with the workplace mentor to monitor progress

Entry requirements 

Apprentices aged 16–18

• If your apprentice does not hold Level 2 English and maths, they will need to achieve these qualifications as part of their apprenticeship.

Apprentices aged 19+

• Functional Skills is no longer mandatory.
• If your apprentice chooses to opt out of Functional Skills, employer approval is required.

Industry Requirement

• An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is mandatory for anyone working in this sector.

Progression

On successful completion, apprentices can progress onto higher-level apprenticeships, supervisory roles or covering classes within childcare.