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FdA Supporting Learning

This is an accredited programme of professional development specifically designed to develop personal understanding, knowledge and skills of education in a wider context. It is aimed at those already supporting teaching and learning and is designed to enhance practice in the workplace. Peer-to-peer support is encouraged, as is workplace mentoring.

Who is this course for?
This course is for those working to support teaching and learning in schools or education centres, including those already holding HLTA status. If you are looking at becoming a teacher in the future, or taking on more responsibility within your workplace, this course could be for you.

What will I study?
A variety of units to support learning at all levels. There will be an alternative route across for those holding HLTA status.

Level 4

• Introduction to education policy
• Behaviour for learning
• Thinking and learning
• Professional practice
• Helping children manage
themselves socially and
emotionally or an independent study
• Assessing, planning and recording
• Voice of the Learner
• Independant Study

Level 5

• Professional practice
• An independent study of own
choice
• Contributions to social cohesion
and well-being in Educational
Settings
• Enhancing subject knowledge
• Voice of the Learner
• Every child matters: Approaches
to safeguarding children and young
people in education settings

How will I be taught?
You will be taught through lectures, seminars and workshops, which will
involve some group, whole-class work or individual study. Research
and reading around topics outside of scheduled classes will further develop
your knowledge and will be essential to your success on the programme. You will be expected to spend some time on research and assignment preparation and group work activities.

How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed through assignments, individual portfolios of
evidence, project work and presentations at the end of each unit.
This will involve various forms of writing, including reflective writing linking
theory to practice, critical analytical writing, lesson plans and case studies. Your assignments will be based around your own experience in your practice setting. There are no examinations on this course, but you are required to work to deadlines for submission of assignments.

Where could this course lead?
This course is recognised by the DCFS. It will give you the basis for further study in the final stage of an Honours degree at level 6 which will then enable you to complete a PGCE for teacher training.

Entry Requirements

You must be working at least one day per week in a school as a teaching assistant, either in a paid or voluntary capacity (1 year
min.), and have a current CRB enhanced disclosure. You should
have a GCSE in English/Maths grade C or level 2 National Test/
Key Skills, or be working towards these. A letter of support from
your employer or evidence of achievement at A-level or equivalent is also required.