Teaching Assistants Supported by Skills Classes
Sixteen teaching assistants take national qualification courses in the Egham and Englefield Green area
Following the success of 20 teaching assistants (TAs) in gaining Literacy and Numeracy national qualifications in Stanwell, the Community Learning Partnership approached the Runnymede Schools Confederations with the idea. Megan Metcalf from the North Runnymede Confederation was keen to take this forward and arranged for Community Learning Adviser Elizabeth Whiddett to speak at a group meeting.
Elizabeth explained that learning as an adult is a different experience from the learning we experience during our schooldays. The tutors have chosen and specifically trained to teach adults and are experienced in supporting even those with few skills to achieve success and learn at their own pace.
Qualifications are desirable for all teaching assistants, especially if they want to pursue a career in this sector. A better understanding of key skills in Literacy and Numeracy would also help support pupils in the classroom. The group decide that Maths was to be the first class.
Strodes College supplied a teacher for on-site classes and by June 2009 a small group had taken the first step. In September Brooklands College took over the class as they were able to use Train to Gain funding that compensated the school for the TAs time our of the classroom. Over sixteen learners had now joined classes and the learning continues today.
Returning to learning for teaching assistants not only provides practical skills but also the confidence to achieve in difficult areas such as numeracy. A previous learner thought that she was incapable of understanding maths and now uses mental arithmetic to add up shopping whilst in-store, just for fun. There is no limit to progression opportunities and TAs can take further skills courses leading to higher qualifications including foundation degrees and teaching qualifications.
November 2009
