Introduction to Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools and the Award in Support Work in Schools - virtual (13RN09NA/21)


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Course details

This virtual course is a perfect starting point for anyone who is interested in either starting or progressing a career in school support work. It is also essential for anyone who wishes to complete one of our Level 2 supporting schools courses.

You’ll learn about the range of responsibilities that might be expected of you in a school environment, and you’ll find out more about the requirements for both the Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and the Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools. This will help you to make an informed decision as to which route is best for you.

You do not need to have a placement in school to attend this intro course.

What do I need to join the course?

Prior to joining this course you will have a one to one discussion with one of our personal advisors to ensure that this course is right for you.

You should have good maths and English skills and an interest in working with children and young people in schools; you do not need any formal qualifications.

Whilst you do not need to have a placement in school to attend this course you will find out the requirements for placement work and DBS checks should you decide that progression to our Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (STLS) level 2 certificate course is the right next step for you.

As the course is being delivered virtually through Microsoft Teams you will need to ensure that you are able to connect to the internet, have a web browser (e.g. Google chrome, Microsoft Edge) and are able to follow the links to take part in the virtual activities. This will include having some basic computer skills, including being able to use a keyboard and mouse.

What do I need to provide for the first session?

This course is delivered via virtual learning on Microsoft Teams. You will not need to attend any classroom delivery but you will need to commit to attending the virtual sessions at the specified dates and times. In order to participate in the virtual sessions you will need access to the following:

  • Computer/Laptop/Tablet
  • Headset/earphones if required, including a microphone (unless you are able to work in an area where you will not be disturbed/disturb others
  • A reliable internet connection
  • An email address to access the virtual classroom
  • A means of using video conferencing e.g. integrated webcam, webcam, tablet with camera
  • Teams app downloaded (free download is available)
  • You may find it useful to have a notebook and pen to make notes and you may be asked to submit work back to your tutor, therefore the ability to produce a text or word document that you can upload or email to your tutor will be beneficial.

If you are unsure about how to join a virtual learning session please contact us as soon as possible, but at the latest 2 working days prior to your course starting.  We will then arrange for one of our Personal Advisors to contact you and talk you through how to access the sessions.

You may also want to attend our Preparing for virtual learning short session, this will help you to get started and feel confident in participating with any future virtual learning courses. For more details on this please search on the course booking system or telephone us on 01482 887670 or email learn@eastriding.gov.uk.

How will I be taught?

You will attend a weekly, interactive virtual online session and will be able to participate in group and one to one discussions in real time.

You will be taught and supported by experienced tutors and will take part in some initial assessment tasks to find out what you already know. The course will include tutor input, small group work and online learning. Attendance at sessions is important to ensure that you are successful. Independent study is essential if you are to successfully complete this course.

What will I learn?

On this introductory course we will explain the full range of the Teaching Assistant role and the main requirements for both the Level 2 Award in Support Work in schools and the Level 2 Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (STLS) level 2 certificate. You will learn how to write a reflective account and match it to course criteria as well as how to write statements of knowledge. We have a range of online induction activities which you will complete during the course. Our tutor will discuss with you your progression routes

What could I do next?

Together with your tutor you will decide which is the right next step for you. You might progress to either the Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools or the STLS level 2 certificate course. Alternatively, your tutor can also give you information about a range of other courses we offer including ICT, English, maths and employability.

Can we help you to learn?

You can find more information on the Financial help and additional support page or you can contact us to talk about this and any other support we can provide.