How Long Does it Take to Be a Teaching Assistant?

Wondering about becoming a teaching assistant but curious about how long it takes to become one? The quick answer would be to consider several factors, like which course you are choosing, the level of qualification and the prerequisite requirements to complete different levels of teaching assistant qualifications.

This question, ‘How Long Does it Take to Be a Teaching Assistant?’ often looms large on the horizon and that is why we are here to cater to all your inquiries regarding the teaching assistant courses and the overall time required to become a teaching assistant. Here is how you can become a teaching assistant and the time required to complete each qualification:

Requirements and Duration to Become a Teaching Assistant

To become a teaching assistant, you can take various routes and enrol in several teaching assistant courses. The total duration of becoming a TA will depend on the level and course type you choose. To help learners choose and understand better, we have provided information on each level, course type, and duration of becoming a teaching assistant.

1. Level 2 Award in Teaching Assistant (Support Work in Schools)

The basic starting point of your TA career is this qualification. A level 2 award in teaching assistant is for those who want to pursue this career and wish to become a teaching assistant. The course will provide you with the basic knowledge and skills and the good thing is that anyone can choose to enrol, regardless of their employment status, without requiring any practical requirements. With 5 units in the course, you can complete it in 4-6 months or earlier at your own pace and time of your choice.

On another note, although Level 3 qualifications are preferred by most schools, some schools may still hire you as a TA with limited responsibilities.

2. Level 3 Award in Teaching Assistant (Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools)

The only difference between Level 2 and Level 3 Award in TA is the number of units. By enrolling on a Level 3 Award in the Teaching Assistant course, learners will have the opportunity to gain basic knowledge on how to directly deal with and take care of young people or children in schools.

So, whether you work in a school or not, this course is an initial training that can be completed in up to 4 months. This makes the course ideal for those who do not have any experience or qualifications under their belt but still want to pursue this career.

3. Level 2 Certificate in Teaching Assistant (Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools)

With additional course units and more time commitment required, it provides the knowledge and skills required for developing effective communication and maintaining a professional relationship with the students. A level 2 certificate in teaching assistant is more advanced than an award and provides better employment options. When it comes to completion, it generally takes around 9 months. However, you must be working in a school to achieve the qualification, as you will be asked to provide witness testimony from your supervisor and written reflective accounts regarding your experience within the educational setting.

4. Level 3 Certificate in Teaching Assistant (Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools)

This qualification is designed for individuals who are already working in schools. After gaining this qualification, you will be able to provide tailored assistance to children (SEN) for their growth and development. It also assists you in preparing lesson plans, maintaining effective communication with students and much more. This is a Level 3 TA qualification; therefore, it requires more time commitment and responsibilities than a Level 2 Teaching Assistant course.

You can complete the course in either 4 months or up to 9 months, according to your learning pace and you must provide witness testimony and written reflective accounts.

5. Level 3 Diploma in Teaching Assistant (Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools)

This Level 3 diploma in TA is perfect if you are already working with a teacher and supporting children in a school environment. Designed with fourteen units, you will be equipped with in-depth knowledge of how to cater to individuals’ needs, design an inclusive classroom and engage in their development from each aspect. You may also be dealing with students with special needs or working in a complete SEND environment. You may complete the qualification in a matter of weeks; however, it can also be completed in around 8–12 months at your desired pace.

6. Level 4 Higher Level Teaching Assistant

On the other hand, if you want to take your career one step ahead, you can achieve level 4 higher level teaching assistant. The role is more authoritative in nature and has additional responsibilities. For instance, as a higher-level teaching assistant, you can teach classes in the absence of the supervisor, supervise their progress, and offer an increased salary due to additional responsibilities.

To enrol on this course, you must have years’ worth of experience and already be working as a teaching assistant. The course requires a maximum of 6-9 months to complete with proof (witness testimony), demonstrating that you have been successfully assessed in a school environment. 

Is There a Way for Those Who Want to Become Teaching Assistants More Quickly?

At Britannia Schools of Academics, we provide teaching assistant courses that can be easily completed in a shorter span of time than a traditional academic route. We offer flexible timing and payment plans like ‘FLEXI’ where learners can complete their desired TA courses in 24 months at their desired pace.

Conclusion

To sum up, the total duration to become a teaching assistant varies greatly and greatly depends on the level of qualification and role you choose. Some basic-level courses can be completed in around 4 months, while other advanced-level courses take up to 8 or 9 months. Regardless of the level or route you choose for becoming a teaching assistant, you can make a positive impact on students’ educational careers.

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