Level 3 Teaching Assistant
Your Path to a Rewarding Career in Education
Support teachers, inspire learners, and help children and young people reach their full potential across classroom and learning environments.
The Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification is designed for individuals supporting teaching and learning across all key stages.
You’ll learn how to work alongside teachers to enhance students’ learning, manage behaviour positively, and provide targeted support to individuals or groups. This qualification develops the practical skills and professional knowledge you need to create safe, engaging, and inclusive classrooms.
You’ll learn how to:
Support teachers in planning and delivering lessons
Adapt learning activities to meet different abilities and needs
Promote positive learning behaviours and emotional wellbeing
Safeguard children and young people within educational settings
Work collaboratively with teachers, parents, and external professionals
Level:
3 Apprenticeship Standard
Typical Duration:
18 months (plus 3-month EPA)
Assessment:
Observation & professional discussion underpinned by portfolio
Study Mode:
Work-based learning
Settings:
Primary, Secondary, Special, or Further Education
Minimum Age:
16+
Who Is It For?
This qualification is perfect for:
Individuals working or aspiring to work as Teaching Assistants
Classroom or Learning Support Assistants
Those supporting pupils with additional or special educational needs
Anyone passionate about helping children and young people to succeed
Course Content
You’ll build the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to provide effective support to pupils and teaching staff across a range of educational environments.
Core Learning Areas:
Supporting Teaching and Learning Activities
Child Development and Learning Theories
Safeguarding, Health and Safety, and Child Protection
Communication and Teamwork in Education
Promoting Inclusion, Equality, and Diversity
Supporting Learners with Special Educational Needs (SEND)
Encouraging Positive Behaviour and Attitudes
Using Technology and Resources in the Classroom
How You’ll Be Assessed
Your assessment demonstrates both your practical teaching support skills and theoretical understanding.
Observation with questions: Independent assessor observes you in your role (approx. 110 minutes)
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence: 90-minute discussion covering your knowledge, skills, and behaviours
Gateway requirements: Achieved English and Maths qualifications (in line with funding rules) Completed portfolio of evidence submitted prior to End-Point Assessment
Final grades available: Pass, Merit, or Distinction.
Progression & Careers
After qualifying, you can work as:
After qualifying, you can work as:
Teaching Assistant or Classroom Assistant
Learning Support Assistant
SEND Support Worker
Specialist Curriculum Support Assistant
Progression routes include:
Level 4 Certificate for the Advanced Practitioner in Schools and Colleges
Level 4 Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
Level 5 Learning and Skills Teacher Apprenticeship
Foundation Degree in Education or Early Childhood Studies
Entry Requirements
Learners must be aged 16+
Employment or voluntary placement in a school or educational setting
Enhanced DBS check required
English and Maths qualifications at Level 2 (or achieved before completion)
Why Choose Accacia Training?
Delivered by experienced tutors with education and school experience
Work-based learning that fits around your classroom role
One-to-one mentoring and practical support throughout
Clear progression to higher-level teaching and education qualifications
Nationally recognised apprenticeship standard approved by Ofqual
Support Hub
Do I need experience in education before starting?
No — this qualification is suitable for new entrants and existing support staff.
Is this course recognised by schools?
Yes — it’s a nationally recognised standard for teaching assistants across the UK.
What settings can I work in?
Primary, secondary, special education, or further education colleges.
Will I need to find my own placement?
Yes — you must have access to a classroom setting to complete your assessments.
What happens after I finish the course?
You can move into advanced teaching assistant or HLTA roles or progress into teaching and education degrees.
