What qualifications do you need to be a level 2 teaching assistant?

A level 2 teaching assistant is an entry-level position for assisting and supporting teachers in the classroom. It’s a challenging, dynamic and rewarding role that offers in-classroom experience and many progression opportunities.

If you are passionate about supporting teaching and learning in schools, the level 2 teaching assistant role is a great place to start.

In this article, we take a look at what a level 2 teaching assistant is, what their responsibilities are and which qualifications you need to get into the role.

What is a level 2 teaching assistant?

A level 2 teaching assistant supports teachers in the classroom by undertaking a variety of tasks that ultimately benefit the education and wellbeing of their pupils. 

As an entry-level role, the level 2 teaching assistant position is a great opportunity for anyone wanting to kickstart a career in teaching. It provides invaluable experience in the classroom and offers progression opportunities into more advanced teaching assistant roles.

Just some of the responsibilities of a teaching assistant include:

• Getting the classroom ready for lessons
• Supporting children with their tasks
• Helping teachers plan lessons and complete records
• Supporting teachers in managing class behaviour
• Providing feedback to teachers on students’ progress and areas of concern
• Helping with outings and sporting events

What qualifications do I need to become a level 2 teaching assistant?

Employers hiring for an entry-level teaching assistant will generally be looking for a candidate who has earned the Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (STALIS / STLS)

This is the most basic of the teaching assistant courses and has approximately 80 hours of study time. Most learners will complete this qualification in 5-6 months although it can be completed sooner or later depending on your schedule

You do not need any prior qualifications to earn the Level 2 teaching assistant qualification, however, you will need to be observed by an expert witness. This means you will need to be in a placement in a school to complete the course. 

Some of the units you will be required to take as part of this course include:

• Equality, diversity and inclusion in work with children and young people
• Maintain and support relationships with children and young people
• Communication and professional relationships with children, young people and adults
• Child and young person development
• Safeguarding the welfare of children and young people
• Support children and young people’s positive behaviour
• Support children and young people’s health and safety
• Support learning activities
• Help improve own and team practice in school

Some schools may require you to have a level 3 qualification to apply for the role. These include:

•  Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools 
•  Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools

The level 3 qualifications provide a more in-depth look at supporting teaching and learning in schools. They are usually more relevant if you are interested in a specialised role, such as  an additional needs assistant, pastoral/welfare support assistant, bilingual support assistant or foundation stage assistant.

The Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools can be completed at your own pace with CTC Training. Simply enrol on the course and you’ll be given access to our 24/7 student portal, where you can view course content and uploaded assessments at your leisure. 

Enrol on a course today to unlock your potential.