Course Details

A learning support assistant or teacher’s assistant helps a school teacher with instructional and clerical tasks. Job duties can include preparing lesson materials, making photocopies, taking attendance, collecting and grading student work, monitoring student behavior, and working one-on-one or with small groups of children who need additional guidance to complete classroom learning activities.

Week 1: Introduction to the Role of an LSA

• Understanding the responsibilities and expectations of an LSA
• Overview of the educational environment and the support needs of students
• Effective communication skills for working with students, teachers, and parents

Week 2: Supporting Different Learning Styles

• Recognizing and adapting to different learning styles
• Strategies for supporting visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners
• Identifying and addressing specific learning difficulties (e.g., dyslexia, ADHD)

Week 3: Behavior Management and Emotional Support

• Techniques for managing challenging behaviors in the classroom
• Building positive relationships with students and promoting emotional well-being
• Supporting students with social and emotional difficulties

Week 4: Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and Special Educational Needs (SEN)

• Understanding the purpose and components of IEPs
• Identifying students with special educational needs and their specific requirements
• Collaborating with teachers and other professionals to implement effective support

Week 5: Assistive Technologies and Resources

• Introduction to assistive technologies for students with disabilities
• Familiarization with resources such as visual aids, sensory tools, and educational apps
• Evaluating and selecting appropriate resources based on individual student needs

Week 6: Collaboration and Professional Development

• Collaborating with teachers, parents, and other LSAs as part of a team
• Reflecting on personal practice and continuous professional development opportunities
• Strategies for self-care and managing stress in a demanding educational environment

This course outline aims to provide LSAs with a solid foundation in their role, covering essential knowledge and skills to effectively support students' learning and well-being. Of course, the course duration and specific topics can be adjusted to meet the needs of the participants and educational context.

Benefits of course

You’ll get to hone your communication skills, you will also learn to demonstrate authority effectively, listen intently and foster positive interactions between pupils.

Your time management and organisation skills will be developed, and you’ll grow more comfortable in a position of leadership. Refining your instructional skills and ability to take charge when things don’t go to plan. 

Working as a teaching assistant can be a career destination or a step towards other opportunities. Training as a teaching assistant can lead to many avenues of career progression within the education sector.