Teaching Assistant Apprentice Review

I endeavour to create a purposeful and relevant learning environment to all students taking into account individual needs and aspirations along with recognising barriers to learning and other difficulties that may inhibit a student’s ability to access the curriculum. I support children's learning and pastoral needs by working alongside the class teacher to deliver a lesson, by providing support to children with additional needs in lessons or through 1:1. I also set up equipment, help to prepare the classroom for lessons, tidy up, put together displays and assist with record keeping.

I have developed my communication skills with both children and adults through experience. STEPs training in de-escalating negative behaviours has improved my ability to manage challenging and dangerous behaviours. Through experience working with vulnerable young people with special educational needs and disabilities I have a better understanding of different needs and how to accommodate these in education. I have gained valuable ICT skills through everyday use and training. Completing first aid has provided my with the necessary skills to know how to manage a situation where first aid is required. Safeguarding training has provided me with the knowledge and skills required to keep children safe and the importance of reporting and recording concerns to the relevant person in a timely manner.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this experience working in a school as well as completing ATA training sessions with my tutor alongside other apprentices. I have had the opportunity to work in a Primary setting as well as KS3 / KS4. This enabled me to gain valuable experience. I have particularly enjoyed working with 'at risk' children and those with SEND, learning about their different needs and seeing the positive impact I have made on these young people. I have built positive relationships with students and staff alike.

The programme was very well structured: I received an assignment roughly every month on various topics including safeguarding, health and safety, positive behaviour and assessment for learning. These assignments provided me with the opportunity to research valuable information which would benefit me in my practice. I received these assignments through my tutor, who was particularly helpful, clear and understanding. The ATA training sessions with my tutor and other apprentices were very beneficial in supporting my learning and confidence.

I received a great deal of support from my employer, particularly my tutor. Monthly meetings with my tutor supported my learning and enabled me to talk through assignments and work. I was provided with the opportunity to complete training in areas such as mental health first aid. While in lockdown my learning was supported through online webinars delivered by various members of LMP. I was offered support and flexible work / working hours by my employer when experiencing a bereavement.

I received a great deal of support from my training provider; I was provided with the opportunity to complete training in areas such as mental health first aid. This training was very relevant to the placement in which I have completed this apprenticeship. The children I work with are 'at risk' vulnerable children with SEN. Therefore gaining the knowledge and skills to support young people's mental health has been valuable as I use these skills in my everyday practice. While in lockdown my learning was supported through online webinars delivered by various members of LMP. These webinars gave me the opportunity to discuss experiences, queries, study tip etc. with the training provider and other apprentices.

Completing this qualification has provided me with valuable experience working in a school. It has improved my knowledge and understanding of the working environment of a school. I gained behaviour management skills and developed my understanding of this through experience working with vulnerable children with SEND in both a primary and secondary setting. Completing assignments set by my employer has enabled me to research and learn about areas like safeguarding and health and safety which I apply to my role. All that I have learnt from this apprenticeship has been applied to my role and made me more confident and able.

At my placement I run student voice at lunch time once every half term to allow the students to voice their ideas, opinions and concerns. I support the PE teacher in running a sport extra-curricular activity after school and at lunch once a week. Taking part in sport with both staff and students has been a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Inspire ATA hold a social event at the end of term for employees. This year they have adapted to Covid and created an online social event.

Yes

Inspire ATA have provided me with all the necessary training as well as providing me with additional opportunities to learn and gain new skills. I have enjoyed being able to work and communicate with other apprentices, through ATA training or webinars. My tutor, as well as other LMP staff, have been friendly, helpful and understanding throughout making my learning experience more enjoyable. Inspire ATA have been especially supportive throughout and I feel I have gained valuable knowledge and skills which have assisted me in securing a full time job with my placement school.

There are a number of courses that Inspire ATA offer to help you embark on your journey into the working world. Every member associated with ATA Ltd is supportive and friendly and will do their best to help you through your learning journey.