Are you thinking about a career working with children and young people, or are you already a Teaching Assistant looking to take the next step? If you have a passion for helping students succeed, the Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning (RQF) could be your perfect next move.
It's a nationally recognised, RQF-accredited qualification designed to give you the advanced skills schools are looking for. Think of it as your key to unlocking a more responsible and rewarding role in education, allowing you to confidently support teachers, manage classroom dynamics, and help children with a wide range of learning needs.
In this guide, we'll explore what the diploma covers, who it's for, and how you can achieve it flexibly with Stonebridge Associated Colleges.
Why a Level 3 Diploma is a Game-Changer for Your Career
Teaching Assistants are the unsung heroes of the classroom, providing that crucial support that helps a student finally have their "aha!" moment. If you're passionate about making that kind of difference, the Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning (RQF) formalises your ambition and gives you the specialist skills to provide a higher level of support.
Who Is This Diploma For?
The beauty of the Level 3 Diploma is its versatility. It’s an ideal choice whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career. You're a great fit if you are:
-
New to the field and want to become a Teaching Assistant with an advanced qualification from day one.
-
An existing TA on Level 1 or 2, ready to take on more responsibility.
-
Looking to specialise, particularly in supporting children with special educational needs.
-
Considering a future as a Teacher and want a solid, practical foundation before starting a degree.
With this diploma, you can enter the profession at Level 3 and provide specialist support to children with varying abilities, from managing behaviour to assisting bilingual learners. It equips you with a blend of online theory and practical skills, making you a highly desirable candidate for schools, colleges, and specialist institutions, without needing a university degree.
Course at a Glance
RQF accredited and nationally recognised.
No prior experience needed to enrol.
Progress to a Level 3 Teaching Assistant.
Gain practical experience through a work placement.
Learn to support children with special educational needs.
If you're curious about the initial steps, our guide on how to become a teaching assistant is a great place to start.
What You Will Learn: A Deep Dive into the Curriculum
The Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma is a comprehensive training programme designed to build the modern skill set that schools need. The curriculum is broken down into 16 distinct units, each adding a new layer to your professional capabilities. These units take you on a journey from foundational knowledge to the specialised skills that set Level 3 professionals apart.
Unit Breakdown: Your Learning Journey
The course is thoughtfully structured to build your expertise step-by-step.
Foundational Knowledge: The Core Essentials
-
Unit 1: Schools and colleges as organisations: Understand how education is structured and the roles within it.
-
Unit 2: Support health and safety in a learning environment: Learn to manage risks and respond to emergencies.
-
Unit 3: Understand how to safeguard children and young people: Grasp the critical legislation and procedures for protecting students.
-
Unit 4: Develop professional relationships: Build positive connections with children, young people, and adults.
Child Development and Behaviour
-
Unit 5: Understand how children and young people develop: Learn the expected patterns of development from birth to 19.
-
Unit 6: Support positive behaviour in children and young people: Gain strategies to promote positive behaviour and manage challenging situations.
Classroom and Learning Support
-
Unit 7: Support children and young people during learning activities: Contribute to planning, delivering, and evaluating activities.
-
Unit 8: Support English and maths skills: Learn how to provide targeted support in these core subjects.
-
Unit 9: Support the use of ICT in the learning environment: Help integrate technology effectively into lessons.
-
Unit 10: Support assessment for learning: Use assessment strategies to promote learning and track progress.
-
Unit 11: Engage in personal and professional development: Reflect on your own practice and plan for your career growth.
Specialist Support Skills for Advanced Roles
This final section is what truly elevates the Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma, equipping you with the skills for more complex roles.
-
Unit 12: Support children and young people’s speech, language and communication.
-
Unit 13: Understand how to support bilingual learners.
-
Unit 14: Understand how to support learning of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. This module is crucial, giving you vital special needs teaching strategies.
-
Unit 15: Support children and young people during transitions.
-
Unit 16: Support the role of play, leisure and extra-curricular activities for children and young people.
How You'll Learn: Combining Flexible Online Study with Hands-On Placement
How can you get qualified without putting your life on hold? The Stonebridge Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma answers this with a modern, blended approach that combines flexible online learning with essential, real-world classroom experience.
You are in the driver's seat. All course materials are online, so you can study whenever and wherever it suits you. There are no rigid timetables—just a clear path to your qualification that fits around your life.
Flexible and Affordable: How the Subscription Model Works
We believe that funding your education shouldn't be a barrier. That’s why we offer the Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma via a simple, flexible subscription model. Instead of a large upfront fee, you pay a manageable amount each month. This puts you in complete control of your learning journey.
With over two decades of experience, Stonebridge Associated Colleges provides career-focused programmes designed for adult learners. Our subscription-based courses allow you to study 100% online with tutor support.
Take Control of Your Learning
Our model is designed to adapt with you. Here’s what that means for you:
-
Start Immediately: Get instant access to your course with just your first monthly payment.
-
Pause at Any Time: If life gets busy, simply pause your subscription. Your progress is saved, ready for when you return.
-
Cancel Without Penalty: You are not locked into a long-term credit agreement. You can cancel at any time, giving you total peace of mind.
This flexibility allows you to pursue your career goals without financial pressure. We maintain the highest standards of academic quality and financial transparency, ensuring you are in safe hands.
Career Pathways After Your Level 3 Diploma
Completing your Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma is a launchpad for your career. This qualification unlocks a ladder of professional opportunities, positioning you for more specialised, responsible, and fulfilling roles.
A Stepping Stone to Becoming a Teacher
For many, the ultimate goal is leading a classroom. The Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma is one of the most practical first steps on that journey. The hands-on experience you gain is priceless, giving you a real insight into the day-to-day realities of school life. This real-world experience makes any future application for teacher training programmes, such as a university degree or PGCE, much stronger.
Teaching Assistant Career Progression
|
Qualification Level |
Typical Responsibilities |
Potential Career Path |
|---|---|---|
|
Level 1/2 TA |
General classroom support, preparing resources, basic supervision. |
Entry-level Teaching Assistant. |
|
Level 3 TA |
Supporting pupils with specific needs (e.g., SEN), leading small group activities, contributing to lesson planning and assessment. |
SEN TA, Behaviour Support Assistant, Pastoral Support. |
|
Post-Level 3 |
Covering classes, planning and delivering lessons, mentoring other TAs, leading interventions. |
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA), Trainee Teacher. |
This progression often comes with higher earning potential. To learn more, check out our guide on how much a teaching assistant can get paid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting a new qualification is a big step. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear about the Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma.
Do I Need Prior Experience to Enrol?
No, you do not need any prior experience. The course is designed to be accessible to everyone, whether you're new to education or an existing TA looking to advance. We start with the fundamentals, so all you need is a passion for helping children learn.
How Do I Find a Work Placement?
While you are responsible for securing your own placement, we are here to offer guidance. Most students find success by contacting local primary schools, secondary schools, or specialist SEN schools. Schools are often happy to host students, as you provide a valuable extra pair of hands.
Is the Level 3 Diploma Recognised by UK Schools?
Yes, absolutely. The Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning is an RQF (Regulated Qualifications Framework) accredited qualification. This means it's nationally recognised by Ofqual and highly respected by schools across the UK. It is your stamp of quality, proving you have the skills needed for a Level 3 role.
What Happens If I Need to Take a Break?
Life happens. With Stonebridge’s subscription model, you can pause your studies whenever you need to. Your progress is saved, and you can pick up exactly where you left off by reactivating your subscription. This removes the stress of deadlines, allowing you to earn your qualification at a pace that works for you.
Ready to take that next step towards a brilliant career in the classroom? At Stonebridge Associated Colleges, we make gaining the qualifications you need straightforward and affordable.
Explore the Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning (RQF) today and start your journey, your way.
