Course Details about Focus Awards Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools (RQF)

The Focus Awards Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools (RQF) is a nationally recognized qualification tailored for individuals aiming to pursue or enhance their careers in school support roles. This course is ideal for those who aspire to work as teaching assistants, learning support staff, or other non-teaching positions within educational settings. By providing a foundational understanding of the school environment and the responsibilities involved, the qualification ensures learners are equipped to make a positive impact on students’ academic and personal development.

Structured to align with the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), this award emphasizes practical knowledge and essential skills. It covers critical areas such as safeguarding, effective communication, equality and diversity, and the professional roles within a school. The course is flexible, allowing learners to balance their studies alongside work or personal commitments, making it accessible to a broad range of individuals, including those already working in educational settings.

One of the key benefits of this qualification is its versatility. Whether you are looking to enter the education sector for the first time or enhance your current skills, the Level 2 Award offers a pathway to professional growth. It also lays a solid foundation for further studies, such as Level 3 qualifications or specialized courses in teaching assistance or special educational needs (SEN).

Enrolling in this course demonstrates your commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. With the education sector continually evolving, this qualification ensures you remain prepared to meet the demands of modern classrooms while contributing effectively to student success.

Learning Outcomes for this Course

The Focus Awards Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools (RQF) is designed to provide learners with a strong foundation for supporting students, teachers, and the broader school community. By completing this qualification, individuals will achieve the following learning outcomes:

1. Understand the School Environment: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the structure, functions, and roles within a school setting, including the responsibilities of support staff and their impact on the educational experience.
2. Promote Child and Young Person Development: Acquire knowledge of key stages of development—physical, emotional, and cognitive—and learn strategies to support children and young people effectively in their growth and learning journey.
3. Demonstrate Effective Communication Skills: Develop the ability to communicate clearly and appropriately with students, teachers, parents, and colleagues, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.
4. Apply Safeguarding Principles: Understand and implement safeguarding policies and procedures to ensure the safety and welfare of all children and young people in the school.
5. Support Diversity and Inclusion: Learn how to promote equality and embrace diversity, creating a positive and respectful environment for students from all backgrounds and abilities.
6. Work Collaboratively: Understand the importance of teamwork and develop the skills needed to work effectively alongside teachers and other school staff to support the overall goals of the institution.

These learning outcomes ensure that learners are well-equipped to handle the responsibilities of support roles in schools, making them valuable assets to any educational setting.

Entry Requirements for this Course

• Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 16 years old.
• Education Level: No formal qualifications are required, but basic literacy and numeracy skills are recommended.
• Work Placement: A work placement in a school setting is not mandatory for this course, but access to an educational environment may enhance practical understanding.
• Passion for Education: A genuine interest in working within schools and supporting children and young people is essential.

Who is this course for

The Focus Awards Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools (RQF) is ideal for individuals who aspire to work in support roles within educational settings. This course is designed for:

• Aspiring Teaching Assistants: Those looking to begin a career in schools by assisting teachers and supporting students’ learning.
• School Support Staff: Individuals already working in roles such as learning support, administration, or caretaking who wish to formalize their skills and knowledge.
• Career Changers: Professionals from other industries seeking a transition into the education sector with a foundational qualification.
• Parents or Volunteers: Those actively involved in school activities or considering taking on more formal roles within schools.
• Future Learners: Individuals who want to progress to higher-level qualifications, such as the Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools.

This course is particularly suited for anyone passionate about contributing to a positive and inclusive educational environment, regardless of prior experience.

Mandatory Units

The Focus Awards Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools (RQF) qualification consists of Total Qualification Time (TQT): 120, Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 70 and Credits : 12 for the completed qualification.

Mandatory Units

Mandatory Units

Unit Title	Credit	Guided Learning Hours
Child and young person development	2	15
Safeguarding the welfare of children and young people	3	20
Communication and professional relationships with children, young people and adults	2	15
Equality, diversity and inclusion in work with children and young people	2	15

Optional Units

Unit Title	Credit	Guided Learning Hours
Schools as organisations	3	20
Schools as organisations	3	15

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