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 a highly respected qualification for individuals aiming to develop their skills and knowledge in supporting teaching and learning within educational environments. This qualification is ideal for those working or aspiring to work as teaching assistants, learning support assistants, or in similar roles within schools. It provides a comprehensive foundation to support learners in a variety of educational settings, ensuring they are well-equipped to assist in the academic and personal development of students.
This Level 3 Award, which is part of the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), offers a range of essential skills required to support teachers effectively. The qualification covers key areas such as promoting positive relationships with children, supporting literacy and numeracy, assisting with special educational needs (SEN), and understanding the importance of safeguarding in schools. These topics are essential for anyone looking to build a career in school support roles, as they form the basis for effective classroom management and student engagement.
One of the main benefits of the Focus Awards Level 3 Award is its flexibility. The qualification is designed to be accessible to a wide range of learners, including those who are already working in education and those new to the profession. It can be studied as a standalone qualification or as part of a larger career development program. The course is usually delivered through a combination of classroom-based learning and practical assessment, which allows learners to apply their new skills in real-world scenarios.
The qualification is recognized by a variety of employers within the education sector, making it an invaluable addition to any teaching assistant’s or learning support assistant’s CV. It demonstrates a commitment to professional development and the ability to provide high-quality support to students and teachers alike. The knowledge gained through this qualification can also help individuals to progress into more senior roles, such as a higher-level teaching assistant or special educational needs coordinator (SENCO).
The course is typically assessed through a combination of assignments, projects, and practical assessments. This approach ensures that learners are not only able to demonstrate their theoretical knowledge but also their ability to apply their learning in a classroom environment. Feedback from tutors and mentors plays a key role in helping students to improve and refine their skills throughout the qualification.
The Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF) offers a comprehensive and flexible route for individuals seeking to build a career in educational support roles. Whether you are just starting in education or looking to further develop your skills, this qualification provides the necessary knowledge and practical experience to succeed in supporting teaching and learning in schools. With its broad recognition and focus on key areas like safeguarding, literacy, numeracy, and SEN, it remains a valuable and respected qualification within the education sector.
- Minimum age of 16 years.
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills (e.g., GCSE or equivalent).
- Current or prior experience in a school or educational setting is preferred, but not always required.
- A genuine interest in supporting teaching and learning in schools.
- Access to a placement or work experience in an educational setting (for practical assessments).
Mandatory Units
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.
Mandatory Units
| Unit Title | Credit | Guided Learning Hours |
| Communication and professional relationships with children, young people and adults | 2 | 10 |
| Schools as Organisations | 3 | 15 |
| Understand Child and Young Person Development | 4 | 30 |
| Understand how to safeguard the wellbeing of children and young people | 3 | 25 |
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.
The Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (RQF) is designed for individuals who are looking to pursue or advance a career in educational support roles. This includes:
- Teaching Assistants: Those who support classroom teachers in managing students and delivering lessons.
- Learning Support Assistants: Individuals who assist students with specific learning needs, including those with special educational needs (SEN).
- Childcare Professionals: Those working in educational settings like schools, nurseries, or after-school programs.
- Career Changers: Individuals looking to move into the education sector from other fields.
- Current Educational Support Staff: Those already working in schools who want to develop their skills and knowledge to progress in their careers.
This course is suitable for both those new to the profession and those with existing experience in educational environments who want to formalize and enhance their skills.
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