Specialist Support Teaching & Learning in Schools Level 3 Diploma

This qualification provides learners with an in-depth understanding of the knowledge, behaviours and skills needed when working directly with children and young people in school and college environments. It covers all aspects of specialist support including planning, delivering and reviewing assessment strategies to support learning alongside the teacher; bilingual support; special needs support; and personal development and reflective practice. You will learn about topics such as schools and colleges as organisations, safeguarding and keeping children safe in education, positive behaviour, supporting English and Maths, ICT in the learning environment, and supporting language and communication development.

Before you start this course, you must be employed or be volunteering in the role of a Teaching Assistant for a minimum of 12 hours per week for the duration of the course. You  must also have a letter or email from your employer confirming that they agree to support you, and will give permission for the assessors to observe you in the classroom. There are no specific entry requirements for this course. However, your employer may require you to have a Level 2/Grade 4 or equivalent in Maths and English. To start this course you must be 19 years old on the 1st August in the academic year in which to commence your learning.

From September 2026 all employed and volunteer applicants will need to have an Enhanced Children's Workforce DBS that is approved by their employer or placement host before starting in placement. If this is not in place you will not be able to start the course. You will also need a letter/email from the employer/placement host, confirming their support for the duration of the course and permission for the assessments to take place.