Course Title: Learning Support Assistant & Teaching Assistant Fundamentals (Intermediate)

Level of Course: Level 2 (Intermediate)

This combined intermediate-level course is designed to provide participants with essential skills and knowledge required to work effectively as both a Learning Support Assistant (LSA) and a Teaching Assistant (TA). The course will focus on a variety of topics, including supporting students with special educational needs (SEN), understanding school policies, developing classroom relationships, curriculum support, behavior management, and professional development. It is ideal for those wishing to improve their skills or those interested in pursuing a career as an LSA or TA.

Course Objectives:

  1. Define the roles and responsibilities of both a Learning Support Assistant and a Teaching Assistant.

  2. Develop the skills needed to support students’ learning, particularly those with special educational needs.

  3. Understand key school policies and how they apply to the roles of LSA and TA.

  4. Implement effective behavior management strategies in the classroom.

  5. Support curriculum delivery, student assessment, and monitoring of progress.

  6. Develop professional communication skills and build strong relationships with students, teachers, and parents.

  7. Recognize the importance of professional development and career progression within the educational sector.

Course Content:

Module 1: Becoming a Learning Support Assistant and Teaching Assistant

  • Overview of the roles and responsibilities of LSAs and TAs.

  • Essential skills required for both positions.

  • Key differences between the roles and the collaboration between LSAs, TAs, and teachers.

Module 2: Understanding Special Educational Needs (SEN)

  • Introduction to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

  • Identifying and supporting students with SEN in the classroom.

  • Adapting learning strategies for students with various needs (e.g., behavioral issues, learning difficulties).

Module 3: Supporting Curriculum Delivery and Monitoring Progress

  • How LSAs and TAs assist with curriculum implementation.

  • Techniques for monitoring student progress and providing feedback.

  • Support strategies for literacy, numeracy, and ICT development.

Module 4: Behavior Management and Building Relationships

  • Approaches to managing student behavior in a positive, constructive manner.

  • The role of LSAs and TAs in fostering a supportive classroom environment.

  • Building strong relationships with students, teachers, and parents to support student learning.

Module 5: School Policies and Working within the Educational Framework

  • Understanding school policies, including behavior policies, safeguarding, and inclusion.

  • The importance of teamwork within the school setting and the collaboration between TAs, LSAs, and teachers.

  • How to implement and follow policies in your daily role.

Module 6: Professional Development and Career Prospects

  • Opportunities for career advancement within the educational sector.

  • Continuing professional development and qualifications for LSAs and TAs.

  • Exploring pathways to further education or specialized roles (e.g., SENCO, Educational Psychologist).

Module 7: Observation, Assessment, and Feedback

  • The importance of observation in supporting student learning.

  • Techniques for assessing and providing constructive feedback to students.

  • Understanding the role of LSAs and TAs in classroom assessments.

Module 8: Creating an Optimal Learning Environment

  • Organizing the classroom to maximize learning opportunities.

  • Using resources effectively to support diverse learning styles.

  • Supporting inclusive education and adapting teaching methods for different learners.

Module 9: Child Development and SEN Support

  • Understanding how child development impacts learning and behavior.

  • Supporting students’ emotional, social, and cognitive development.

  • Strategies for working with students who require additional support, including those with SEN.

Module 10: Maintaining Strong Communications

  • Effective communication with students, teachers, and parents.

  • The importance of regular communication to monitor student progress and development.

  • Using feedback to guide improvements in student support.

Assessment:

Continuous Assessment (40%):

  • Class participation, discussions, and group activities.

  • Assignments (e.g., creating lesson plans, designing learning support strategies).

  • Practical projects (e.g., managing a classroom activity or behavior management plan).

Final Examination (60%):

  • A comprehensive exam covering all course modules.

  • Practical assessment component (e.g., demonstrating a learning support strategy or creating an inclusive lesson plan).

Materials:

  • Course handbook with detailed readings, case studies, and assignments.

  • Access to templates for lesson planning and assessment tools.

  • Online resources for further study and development.

Suggested Study Hours:

  • Total Course Hours: 60 hours

    • Module 1: Becoming a Learning Support Assistant and Teaching Assistant: 6 hours

    • Module 2: Understanding Special Educational Needs (SEN): 6 hours

    • Module 3: Supporting Curriculum Delivery and Monitoring Progress: 6 hours

    • Module 4: Behavior Management and Building Relationships: 6 hours

    • Module 5: School Policies and Working within the Educational Framework: 6 hours

    • Module 6: Professional Development and Career Prospects: 6 hours

    • Module 7: Observation, Assessment, and Feedback: 6 hours

    • Module 8: Creating an Optimal Learning Environment: 6 hours

    • Module 9: Child Development and SEN Support: 6 hours

    • Module 10: Maintaining Strong Communications: 6 hours

Prerequisites:

  • No formal prerequisites required. However, basic knowledge or experience in education, childcare, or a similar field would be beneficial.