The Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools is a nationally recognised qualification designed for individuals already working part-time, full-time, on a permanent or temporary basis, or as volunteers in roles supporting children and young people in schools. It is also ideal for those looking to start a career as a teaching assistant or learning support assistant. This qualification is accredited by UK-OFQUAL.
The certificate provides essential skills and knowledge across a range of areas, including communication, child development, activity planning, monitoring, classroom management, and supporting pupil learning.
Everything you need to know about this Level 2 certificate in Teaching Assistant, including its significance, function, and employment opportunities, will be covered in this blog.
Why This Level 2 Certification Matters
Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (Level 2 TA)is an opportunity to lay a foundation for an impactful career in education. Here is why it stands out:
Empowers Career Development
This certification opens numerous opportunities for career progression within the education sector. It serves as an excellent starting point for those aiming to secure roles such as teaching assistant, learning support assistant, or support staff. As a recognised qualification, it paves the way for future career advancement, including the possibility of pursuing higher-level certifications or securing permanent positions in educational settings.
Offers Flexibility and Accessibility
This distance learning course, delivered online through a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), allows learners to gain the qualification while balancing everyday life, making it perfect for busy individuals. Whether managing a job, family responsibilities, or other commitments, you can set your own pace, ensuring you achieve your goals without disruption.
Focuses on Practical Knowledge
This work-based qualification is designed for individuals who support teachers in the classroom, assisting with learning in primary, secondary, and specialist schools. The course content focuses on competence and skills-based learning outcomes tailored to real-world school settings. Topics include child development, safeguarding, communication, and classroom support techniques, ensuring that learners are fully equipped to make an immediate impact in your role as teaching assistants.
Promotes Personal Growth
Beyond developing professional skills, this certification boosts confidence, enhances problem-solving abilities, and strengthens organisational and time management skills. It also promotes teamwork and collaboration, improves digital competencies, and fosters a deeper understanding of children’s needs, all of which contribute to personal growth.
Target Audience
This course is an ideal starting point for school leavers seeking their first role in education, parents returning to work, or professionals considering a career change. This competence-based qualification is suitable for a wide range of roles within schools, including administrative staff, site staff, and those working directly with children and young people. The Level 2 Certificate is also particularly beneficial if you aim to specialise in positions such as an additional needs assistant, pastoral or welfare support assistant, bilingual support assistant, or foundation stage assistant, offering a solid pathway into these rewarding roles.
Key Responsibilities as Teaching Assistant
A Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools prepares individuals for vital school support roles.
Following is a quick overview of the key responsibilities that come with this Teaching Assistant Qualification:
- Assist Teachers in Delivering Lessons: Teaching assistants support teachers by helping to prepare classroom resources, setting up activities, and ensuring lessons run smoothly. This contribution helps create an engaging environment for learners.
- Support Pupils with Learning Activities: A Level 2 teaching assistant works closely with pupils, helping them with tasks and reinforcing lesson content. By offering small group support, teaching assistants help to ensure learner’s needs are met. This support aligns with inclusive education support principles.
- Encourage Positive Behaviour: Teaching assistants play a key role in promoting positive behaviour and helping manage classroom dynamics. By maintaining a calm, supportive environment, they assist in creating a space conducive to learning.
- Assist with Safeguarding and Well-being: They ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils by monitoring their emotional and physical state.
- Provide Feedback to Teachers: Teaching assistants observe and assist pupils during lessons and provide feedback to teachers about learner’s progress or areas for improvement.
- Support Pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN): Teaching assistants may be required to work with pupils with special educational needs. They adapt learning materials and provide personalised support, ensuring SEN learners can fully engage with school activities.
- Help with Administrative Tasks: Teaching assistants also contribute to the day-to-day classroom operations by helping with administrative tasks such as organising resources, helping tutors make assignments, and updating pupil records. This organisational support helps teachers focus on delivering high-quality lessons.
Learn more about How to become a SEN Teaching Assistant
Course Duration of Level TA Certificate
This flexible qualification designed to fit around your commitments and learning pace usually takes 4-9 months to complete.The course can often be completed in as little as 4 months for those studying full-time. Learners balancing work or personal responsibilities can take advantage of the part-time study option to complete in 9 months This flexibility allows learners to tailor your study schedule, ensuring you can achieve your qualification without compromising on other priorities.
Expected Salary for Level 2 Teaching Assistants
Level 2 Teaching Assistant in the UK earns an average salary of £23,356 per year, with entry-level positions starting at around £18,000, while experienced professionals can earn up to £28,664 annually.
Career Opportunities After Completion
There are plenty of other career paths within the education sector after completing Level 2 Teaching Assistant Training.
Want to progress your career beyond TA? Here are some roles to consider:
- Teaching Assistant
Work alongside teachers to support classroom activities, help students with learning tasks, and maintain a positive learning environment. - Learning Support Assistant (LSA)
Provide targeted support to students with additional needs, such as those with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), ensuring they can fully participate in their education. - Classroom Assistant
Assist teachers with daily classroom management, including preparing resources, supervising activities, and promoting student engagement. - 1:1 Support Worker
Offer personalised support to individual students who may require extra help due to learning difficulties, behavioural challenges, or medical needs. - Playground Supervisor or Lunchtime Assistant
Oversee children’s safety and well-being during breaks, encouraging positive social interactions and ensuring school policies are upheld. - Pathway to Advanced Roles
With this qualification as a foundation, learners can progress to higher-level certificates, such as the Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning, opening up opportunities for senior roles, such as Higher-Level Teaching Assistants (HLTA).
You will be able to have many options to excel in the education sector starting with the teaching assistant.
Final thoughts
Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools is an entry-level qualification that provides vital skills and knowledge to teaching assistants and learning support practitioners. This programme is delivered through flexible online UK courses and caters to modern learners who value convenience and accessibility. The Level 2 Certificate is not only about gaining a qualification but also about making a meaningful contribution to the development and success of students. If you are passionate about supporting learners and creating a positive impact in the classroom, take the first step towards a fulfilling career in education and discover the impact you can have with this highly regarded certification.
