Specialist Teaching Assistant Level 5 Apprenticeship

Level

Five

Entry Requirements

You must be employed, or moving into employment, in a role to support the education of learners by providing specialist support. Specialist teaching assistants may support provision related to special educational needs and disability (SEND), the social and emotional well-being, of learners, or within another area of specialist curriculum provision such as forest schools, EAL, subject-based interventions or music education.
Your place of work may be in primary, secondary or special schools, alternative provision, further education settings such as college or sixth form.

English and Maths: You must have a GCSE grade 4-9 (C or above) in both English and Maths If you have a GCSE grade 3 (D) in English and Maths, you can still apply.
You'll work towards achieving Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths during the programme.

Duration

Approximately 18 months plus End-Point Assessment

Start Dates

April 2027

Location

Workplace Practice & Online programme

Cost

Apply now

Advance your expertise. Champion inclusion. Make a greater impact.

Advance your career in education with the Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship. This programme combines a strong core curriculum with a choice of specialist pathway, enabling apprentices to develop advanced skills in planning, implementing, evaluating and leading support for learners.

The core units cover inclusion, safeguarding, learning and development, assessment, behaviour, partnership working and leadership, building the knowledge and confidence needed to influence learner outcomes across a range of educational settings.

Apprentices then specialise in SEND, Social and Emotional Well-being, or Curriculum Provision, gaining expert knowledge and practical experience in their chosen field. This blend of broad professional development and focused specialist practice prepares learners for progression into senior teaching assistant roles, HLTA, specialist intervention and inclusion roles, teacher training, and future SEND pathways.

Launching in April 2027, we’re now inviting expressions of interest from schools, trusts and Teaching Assistants.

Register your interest today, and we’ll keep you updated as places become available.

Is this apprenticeship right for you?

This programme is ideal if you:

  • Are an experienced Teaching Assistant or Learning Support Assistant
  • Want to specialise in supporting particular groups of learners
  • Are passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people
  • Would like to progress towards Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) responsibilities
  • Want to continue earning while developing your professional skills

Dedicated support throughout your apprenticeship

You’ll be supported every step of the way by an experienced Performance Coach, who will help you balance your apprenticeship alongside your role in school.

You’ll benefit from:

    • One-to-one coaching and support
    • Interactive online learning
    • Practical workplace activities
    • Regular progress reviews
    • End-Point Assessment preparation

How to Apply

If you have an employer and a determination to excel, apply now using our simple form and we’ll be in touch soon.

Apply now

I'M INTERESTED

If you have an employer and a determination to excel, complete the form.

I'm INTERESTED

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If you have a vacancy or you’d like to hire an apprentice get in touch today.

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Progression routes

What happens next? Most people stay on with the employer they train with, but there are plenty of options! You may decide to study a higher-level apprenticeship, return to academic studies, or work full time. We will support you whatever you decide!

The apprenticeship programme

You will have access to a range of support and advice we have on offer. This includes support from Advice and Admissions, Learning Support and Student Support.

You can access all facilities at Activate Learning Colleges and reap benefits, such as student discount. However, you may not be entitled to certain funding and travel bursaries as apprenticeships are paid positions.

How much will I earn?

The amount you’ll earn will vary depending on the nature of your role, sector and business you are working with.

The minimum hourly rate for an apprentice is £8.00, however most apprentices are paid more than this. If you are over 19 and have completed one year, you will be paid national minimum wage. 

You will also be entitled to the same conditions as all other employees in a business, including paid holiday, sick pay and pensions (where requirements are met).

What can I expect from my apprenticeship?

You must be at least 16 years old when you start an apprenticeship.

There are 3 types of apprenticeships depending on your requirements and previous qualifications: day release, work-based and block-release.

Your apprenticeship programme may be assessed with:

  • Practical assessments/exams
  • A portfolio of evidence
  • Interviews and presentations
  • Final assessments
  • On and off the job training

You will have a performance coach visit your workplace every eight weeks as well as an inhouse mentor throughout your apprenticeship.

An apprenticeship typically lasts 24 months, but can vary between 12 months to 5 years.