Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Level 5 (February 2026 Entry)
Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Standard
Specialist teaching assistants support provision related to special educational needs and disability (SEND), the social and emotional wellbeing, of learners.
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Level 5
Attendance - Full-time
Duration -
Start date - February 2026
Where - Huddersfield Centre
Course Overview
The broad purpose of the occupation is to support the education of learners by providing specialist support. Specialist teaching assistants plan, implement, and adapt activities in order to advance learning. They draw on research to develop a critical understanding of their specialist area. They establish relationships with learners, families, other professionals and external agencies to support the education of the learners they work with.
As an apprentice, you will specialise in the chosen SEND specialist teaching assistants support the implementation of SEND policy, processes, and procedure pathway.
In your daily work, an apprentice in this occupation interacts with learners and teachers, or others acting in a supervisory capacity. As an apprentice you may work with other education professionals such as SENCO’s, and external agencies such as early help, social services, or agencies that provide specialised support in the area of specialist provision.
You will need to secure employment with a suitable employer before starting this apprenticeship.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to support the education of learners by providing specialist support. Specialist teaching assistants plan, implement, and adapt activities in order to advance learning. They draw on research to develop a critical understanding of their specialist area. They establish relationships with learners, families, other professionals and external agencies to support the education of the learners they work with.
In your daily work, an apprentice in this occupation interacts with learners and teachers, or others acting in a supervisory capacity. As an apprentice you may work with other education professionals such as SENCO’s, and external agencies such as early help, social services, or agencies that provide specialised support in the area of specialist provision.
As an apprentice, you will specialise in the chosen SEND specialist teaching assistants support the implementation of SEND policy, processes, and procedure pathway.
You will need to secure employment with a suitable employer before starting this apprenticeship.
Core Skills Gained:
You will need English and Maths GCSE at grade 4 / C or above, and current experience working with SEND in schools, early years or colleges.
HE Teaching qualification
Employment as a SEND LEAD or SENDCo
Employment as a SEND LEAD or SENDCo
You will be observed by an independent assessor whilst out on practice on at least three separate occasions lasting up to two hours. They will ask you at least six questions.
You will have a professional discussion with an independent assessor. It will last 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 10 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You need to compile a portfolio of evidence before the EPA gateway.
Why work in the Health, Social & Child Care Industry?
Wide range of jobs in the Why work in the Health, Social & Child Care Industry
Excellent choice of employers in the area
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