If you’re considering a career as a teaching assistant or looking to formalize your skills in supporting teaching and learning in schools, the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF) is the ideal qualification to help you achieve your professional goals. This Ofqual-regulated qualification is recognized across the UK and internationally, providing you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed for working effectively in educational settings.
The Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF) is a comprehensive qualification designed for those who want to pursue a career in supporting teaching and learning in schools. Whether you’re looking to become a teaching assistant, classroom assistant, or support staff member, this qualification will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge required to work alongside teachers and help students succeed academically.
This entirely assignment-based course allows you to complete your learning at your own pace, making it a flexible option for those balancing work and study commitments. Upon completion, you will gain the Level 3 Award, a qualification regulated by Ofqual, ensuring that it meets high educational standards.
The Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF) is a highly valuable qualification for anyone looking to start or progress their career in education. It offers flexible, assignment-based learning and is Ofqual-regulated, ensuring that it meets high educational standards. Whether you’re an aspiring teaching assistant, current education support staff, or someone looking to transition into the education sector, this qualification will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to make a real difference in the classroom.
Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)
The Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF) qualification consists of Total Qualification Time (TQT): 120, Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 80 and Credits : 12 for the completed qualification.
| Sr# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Communication and professional relationships with children, young people and adults | 2 | 10 |
| 2 | Schools as Organisations | 3 | 15 |
| 3 | Understand Child and Young Person Development | 4 | 30 |
| 4 | Understand how to safeguard the wellbeing of children and young people | 3 | 25 |
GLH (Guided Learning Hours) and TQT (Total Qualification Time) are terms commonly used in vocational qualifications to help define the amount of time a learner is expected to spend on their studies.
1. GLH (Guided Learning Hours)
GLH refers to the number of hours a learner spends being directly taught, supervised, or supported during their course. This includes the time spent in activities such as:
- Classroom instruction
- Practical workshops
- One-on-one tutoring or mentoring sessions
- Online learning sessions with tutor support
In other words, GLH represents the time that learners are actively engaged with their instructors or learning activities.
2. TQT (Total Qualification Time)
TQT represents the total amount of time a learner is expected to invest in completing a qualification, including:
- GLH (Guided Learning Hours): Time spent on direct learning, as explained above.
- Self-Directed Learning: This includes time spent on independent study, research, assignment completion, preparation for exams, and any other work the learner does outside of direct teaching hours.
TQT is a broader measure that includes all the time required to achieve the qualification. It helps learners and employers understand the overall commitment required for the qualification.
Key Differences Between GLH and TQT:
- GLH focuses on direct learning with guidance or supervision.
- TQT includes GLH as well as independent study time and other learning-related activities.
Example:
If a qualification has a TQT of 600 hours and a GLH of 250 hours, it means the learner should spend 250 hours in direct learning (classroom, online, or tutor-led sessions) and 350 hours on independent study or research.
Learning Outcomes for the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)
- Communication and Professional Relationships with Children, Young People, and Adults (2 credits, 10 GLH)
Learning Outcomes:- Understand the importance of effective communication in supporting children and young people in a school environment.
- Develop professional relationships with children, young people, and adults, maintaining appropriate boundaries and behaviors.
- Be able to use communication strategies to respond to individual needs and adapt to varying communication styles.
- Recognize the role of active listening and empathy in building strong, supportive relationships.
- Schools as Organisations (3 credits, 15 GLH)
Learning Outcomes:- Understand the structure and functions of schools, including key policies and procedures.
- Learn the roles and responsibilities of different staff members within a school environment.
- Understand the various types of schools and their place within the broader educational system.
- Recognize how schools collaborate with other institutions and organizations to provide comprehensive support to students.
- Understand Child and Young Person Development (4 credits, 30 GLH)
Learning Outcomes:- Understand the key stages of child and young person development, including physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth.
- Recognize the individual differences in development and the impact of environment and experiences on a child’s development.
- Be able to support children and young people in achieving their developmental milestones through appropriate activities and interventions.
- Learn how to observe and assess development to inform strategies for supporting children and young people’s learning and behavior.
- Understand How to Safeguard the Wellbeing of Children and Young People (3 credits, 20 GLH)
Learning Outcomes:- Understand the importance of safeguarding and the role of staff in ensuring the safety and well-being of children and young people.
- Learn about the relevant legislation, policies, and procedures for safeguarding in educational settings.
- Recognize the signs and symptoms of abuse and neglect and understand how to respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns.
- Develop strategies for creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all students, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being.
Benefits of the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)
- Ofqual Regulated Qualification:
The Focus Awards Level 3 Award is a fully Ofqual-regulated qualification, ensuring it meets the high standards required for educational credentials. This provides learners with a recognized certification that is widely respected in the educational field. - Enhanced Career Opportunities:
This course opens up a variety of career paths within the education sector, including roles such as teaching assistants, learning support assistants, and special educational needs (SEN) assistants. It equips learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a rewarding career supporting children and young people in educational settings. - Comprehensive Understanding of Child Development:
With a focus on child and young person development, learners will understand how children grow emotionally, socially, and academically. This insight helps teaching assistants tailor their approach to meet the needs of individual students, making them more effective in supporting their learning and development. - Support for Safeguarding and Well-Being:
The course includes important modules on safeguarding and child well-being, helping learners understand how to protect students from harm, identify signs of abuse or neglect, and create a safe and supportive learning environment. This is crucial for ensuring the safety and mental health of children in schools. - Improved Communication Skills:
Learners will develop effective communication skills to build positive relationships with children, young people, and adults. Effective communication is a core aspect of supporting teaching and learning, and the course provides strategies for adapting communication styles to suit different age groups and needs. - Increased Employability:
This qualification increases the employability of learners by equipping them with the practical skills needed to excel in a classroom setting. Having a formal qualification demonstrates a commitment to professional development and competence, making learners more attractive candidates to employers. - Practical Knowledge for Real-World Application:
The course focuses on practical, hands-on skills such as assisting with classroom activities, supporting students’ academic work, and managing classroom behavior. The real-world application of this knowledge helps learners gain confidence and competence in their roles. - Personal and Professional Growth:
In addition to improving practical skills, the course promotes personal development by encouraging self-reflection, teamwork, and continuous learning. It helps learners build a strong foundation for a career in education while fostering their own professional growth. - Flexible Learning:
The course is designed to be flexible and can be tailored to suit the learner’s personal and professional schedule. Whether you are already working in an educational role or looking to start a career in teaching support, the course allows you to learn at your own pace. - Pathway to Further Education and Career Progression:
Upon completion, learners can progress to higher-level qualifications, such as the Level 4 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning, or pursue additional specialized qualifications in education. The course provides a solid foundation for further studies and career advancement in education.
By completing the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF), learners gain a strong foundation in supporting students’ educational journeys, making them invaluable assets to any educational institution.
Best Fit for the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)
The Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF) is ideal for individuals who are either already working or aspire to work in a school environment, supporting the learning and development of children and young people. This course is particularly suitable for:
- Teaching Assistants and Learning Support Assistants:
If you are currently working or wish to work as a teaching assistant, this qualification provides you with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively support classroom teaching, enhance student learning, and help with managing classroom behavior. - Special Educational Needs (SEN) Support Staff:
For those aiming to work with children who have additional learning needs, this course equips you with the expertise required to support students with special educational needs, promoting inclusion and helping to create a supportive learning environment. - Education Professionals Seeking Professional Development:
If you are an experienced practitioner looking to formalize your knowledge, this qualification offers professional development and recognition of your skills in supporting teaching and learning. It enhances your credentials and helps you progress in your career. - Career Changers to Education:
Individuals considering a career change into the education sector can benefit from this qualification. It provides an introduction to the key principles of teaching support, including child development, communication, safeguarding, and effective learning strategies. - School Support Staff:
If you work in any other support role within a school, such as a learning mentor or pastoral support worker, this course will further enhance your understanding of school environments and improve your ability to support students in their academic and personal development. - Those Aspiring to Become a Qualified Teacher Assistant:
For those aiming to progress to higher levels of responsibility within a school or educational setting, this course provides a solid foundation and can be a stepping stone to further qualifications in education.
This course is perfect for anyone who is passionate about supporting children and young people in their learning journey, and for those who wish to gain a recognized, Ofqual-regulated qualification that enhances their career prospects in the education sector.
Entry Requirements
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Qualification Process
Qualification Process for the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF)
- Self-Assessment:
Begin by evaluating your eligibility to ensure you meet the qualification requirements, including work experience, knowledge, and language proficiency. - Registration:
Complete your registration by submitting the required documents, including a scanned copy of a valid ID, and paying the registration fee. - Induction:
An assessor will conduct an induction to confirm your eligibility for the course and explain the evidence requirements. If you do not meet the criteria, your registration will be canceled, and the fee will be refunded. - Assignmnets & Evidence Submission:
Provide all assignmnets and the necessary evidence based on the assessment criteria outlined in the course. If you are unsure of the required evidence, consult with the assessor for guidance on the type and nature of evidence needed. - Feedback and Revision:
The assessor will review your submitted evidence and provide feedback. Evidence that meets the criteria will be marked as “Criteria Met,” while any gaps will be identified. You will be asked to revise and resubmit if needed. - Competence Evidence:
Submit final evidence demonstrating that all learning outcomes have been met. This evidence will be marked as “Criteria Met” by the assessor once it is satisfactory. - Internal Quality Assurance (IQA):
The Internal Quality Assurance Verifier (IQA) will review your evidence to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance with standards. - External Verification:
The IQA will submit your portfolio to Focus Award External Quality Assurance Verifiers (EQA) for final confirmation. The EQA may contact you directly to verify the authenticity of your evidence. - Certification:
Upon successful completion of all checks, FOCUS AWARD will issue your official certificate, confirming that you have attained the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF).
