Specialist teaching assistant
Level 5 · HigherEducation and early years 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 5 apprenticeship trains specialist teaching assistants to deliver targeted support to pupils with specific learning, social, emotional, or communication needs. Apprentices develop advanced knowledge of special educational needs, working closely with teachers and SENCOs to plan and deliver interventions. It can lead to roles as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, SEN Support Worker, or SENCO.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Special educational needs legislation and the SEND Code of Practice
Theories of learning and child development relevant to SEN
Designing and delivering targeted interventions for specific needs
Communication strategies for pupils with speech and language difficulties
Behaviour support strategies and positive behaviour frameworks
Working in partnership with teachers, parents, and external specialists
Monitoring pupil progress and contributing to EHCP reviews
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Deliver structured interventions for pupils with identified SEN
Support pupils with communication, literacy, or numeracy needs
Contribute to Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) processes
Liaise with SENCOs, teachers, and families about pupil progress
Implement positive behaviour support strategies in class
Adapt resources and activities for individual learner needs
Observe and record pupil responses to inform future planning
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 5 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 6 (Degree) apprenticeship or a senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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