Course Overview
If you’re passionate about education and want to make a real difference in learners’ lives, this Level 5 apprenticeship will help you develop the skills to specialise in supporting children and young people. Whether you work in a primary or secondary school, a college, or an alternative education setting, this course will equip you with the expertise to inspire, support, and advance learning.
Who is this course for?
This apprenticeship is ideal for Academic mentors, Drama, PE, and music teaching assistants, Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs), Learning mentors, SEND teaching assistants, Social and emotional wellbeing teaching assistants, Specialist education support staff, Subject teaching assistants.
As a Specialist Teaching Assistant, you’ll play a key role in education, supporting learners of all ages and abilities. You’ll develop expertise in one of three specialisms:
- SEND (Special Educational Needs & Disabilities) – Help learners with SEND thrive by implementing policies and tailored support strategies.
- Social & Emotional Wellbeing – Focus on learners’ emotional development, supporting their mental wellbeing and resilience.
- Curriculum Provision – Specialise in a subject or learning approach, such as early reading and maths interventions, English as an Additional Language (EAL), or Forest School.
This qualification enables you to take on greater responsibility within your role, supporting both learners and colleagues and could lead to further career progression.
Duration
It’s anticipated that it will take 24 months to complete this qualification but this will be discussed with you when you start.
Entry Requirements
Requirements for English and Maths will be dependent upon age, previous qualifications, and chosen apprenticeship standard. This will be discussed during the application process. Full support is given to any applicant required or desiring to work towards their Maths and English qualifications.
Requirements for English and Maths will depend on age, previous qualifications, and chosen apprenticeship standard. This will be discussed during the application process. Full support is given to any applicant required or desiring to work towards their Maths and English qualifications.
Fee Information
Your training is fully funded by contributions from the government and your employer.
To receive government funding, you must currently live in England and have lived in the UK/EEA for the last 3 years.
Assessment
The Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship is assessed through a combination of workplace evidence, practical application, and a formal End-Point Assessment (EPA). Throughout the apprenticeship, you’ll build a portfolio showcasing your knowledge, skills, and behaviours in your specialist area.
Assessment includes:
- On-the-job learning – Applying new skills in real education settings.
- Portfolio of evidence – Demonstrating your specialist support in action.
- Professional discussion – Reflecting on your practice and impact.
- Workplace observations – Showcasing your ability to support learning.
- End-Point Assessment (EPA) – A final assessment to evaluate your competence, including a professional discussion and workplace project.
Your tutor and employer will support you throughout the course, ensuring you’re fully prepared to succeed.
Progression
On successful completion, you may want to consider an appropriate Level 6 qualification. This could be the Teacher Degree Apprenticeship or the Early Years Degree Apprenticeship.
Your progression options can be discussed with your tutor.
Want to find out more?
Interested in this apprenticeship? Complete our short form and we’ll get in touch to discuss your options…
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