Introduction:

These qualifications are designed to support the further development of individuals working in the role of Teaching Assistants at a higher level. This level is reflected in their experience and responsibilities in schools or colleges. The qualifications are regulated by Ofqual and are listed on Ofqual’s Register of Regulated Qualifications. Each qualification has a Qualification Number (QN). This number will appear on the learner’s final certification documentation. Each unit within a qualification also has a Unit Reference Number.  

Aims

The aims of these qualifications are to assist in the professional development of those supporting teaching and learning and working in the role of Teaching Assistants at a higher level. The qualifications will develop knowledge, understanding and the skills needed to improve the quality of support for teaching/training in schools, colleges and other organisations, leading to the maintenance of standards and providing better outcomes for learners. The qualifications aim to embed improved practice, leading to higher levels of institutional success. The achievement of this qualification by Teaching Assistants will provide assurance to headteachers, teachers, parents and other stakeholders that the member of staff is working to the standards set.

Entry Requirements

·       Learners may be aged 20 and 20 plus

·       they should be available to everyone who is capable of reaching the required standard

·       they should be free from any barriers that restrict access and progression

·       there should be equal opportunities for all those wishing to access the qualifications

For learners who have recently been in education or training the entry profile is likely to include one or more of the following:

·       a first degree

·       a level 4 qualification

·       achievement of a nationally recognised qualification at level 2 or above in English/literacy and Mathematics/numeracy

·       other equivalent international qualifications

·       relevant experience of working with students/participants in assisting teaching/training

For those whom English is not their first language we recommend the following standards of proficiency in English language skills or an approved equivalent for this qualification:

•      IELTs 5.5

•      Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) B2

•      Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) 162 or above

•      Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic 42-49

Progression:

·       a Level 6 qualification in the education/training field

·       other qualifications at Level 6 for example in Business and Management

·       a position at a higher level of responsibility in a school, college or training provider

Course Guidelines

ATHE Level 5 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning is a 90-credit qualification. A learner must achieve 90 credits by passing each of the seven mandatory units

The rules of combination for this qualification are given below:

·      Mode of learning : full time/ part time /blended learning or distance learning

·       Credit Qualification: 90

·      Total Qualification Time(TQT) : 900

·      Total Guided Learning : 270 Hour

Assessment method:

•               Assessor observation of actual practice– completed observational checklists linked to the assessment criteria and related action plans

•               Peer observations and associated feedback

•               witness testimony including comments from line managers

•               completed worksheets

•               a journal/diary

•               assignments/projects/reports

•               record of professional discussion

•               record of oral and written questioning

•               learner and peer reports

•               Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Qualification Grading Structure

Each unit is graded pass or fail. As well as receiving a grade for each individual unit learners will receive an overall grade for the qualification. Each unit is equally weighted.

To achieve a Pass grade for the qualification the learner must achieve a Pass for all the required units in the rules of combination