Exciting news for training providers and employers in the education sector was announced in October, when the much-anticipated Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant apprenticeship standard was approved for delivery by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (pending approval of an Ofqual regulated EPAO). In what is seen within the sector as a vital progression route for Level 3 qualified Teaching Assistants, the new Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistants will have the opportunity to choose a specific pathway in which to specialise in. This will allow the provision of focused, specific support to fulfil the needs of educational settings and the learners within them.
There are three pathways of expertise which can be chosen from, which are:
- special educational needs and disability (SEND)
- the social and emotional well-being of learners
- area of specialist curriculum provision such as forest schools, EAL, subject-based interventions or music education
Dame Alison Peacock, Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered College of Teaching and part of the trailblazer group for the new standard, highlighted the importance of the role of teaching assistants play and the need for professional evolution: “Teaching assistants play a critical role in supporting teachers, making a significant contribution in supporting the education of young people, particularly those with diverse, and often challenging, special needs and behaviours. It is vital that there are clear opportunities for professional development for support staff, and an apprenticeship route offers exciting possibilities for career enhancement and progression.”
With strong levels of interest evident from both employers and training providers alike, enrolments are expected to commence in December 2024.
If you would like to talk to us about this EPA, please give us a call on 01775 513056 or send us an email at enquiries@steadfastepa.co.uk
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