Teaching Assistant Review

by Inspire ATA Ltd.

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.1/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I work in a SEND school and I am working with children with severe and complex learning needs.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Previously I had no experience working in schools and I have learnt how to interact with children with Autism.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy my programme very much, as each day I am learning new skills and even though my working environment is quite challenging it is also very rewarding.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The structure is well organised and I have been given realistic timescales to complete my written modules. My coursework can be easily uploaded to Smart Assessor which is an easy to use platform.

8/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I am happy with the amount of support from my employer. I know they are there for me if I need any extra support or questions answered. If I do have any queries they are answered immediately and they have been very supportive so far. They have been very good also during Lockdown 2020 and have organised lots of extra informative sessions on Zoom to help us and they have paid lots of attention to our well being and mental health.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

I know they will answer any questions I ask and support me if needed. My tutor has been patient and kind.

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I think it will give me the self confidence to continue working in education and it has given me a solid foundation from which to start my journey. I came to the apprenticeship after working in hospitality and did not have any experience beforehand. I have learnt a lot through researching my written modules alongside my day to day learning curve in the school I work at.

8/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Unfortunately due to Covid 19, these have not taken place, although I think normally there would have been things like yoga sessions and school staff choir. The school did put on wellbeing sessions recently on a inset day when we were able to join a couple of sessions of our choice including art, cooking, dance etc.

8/10

9a. Would you recommend Inspire ATA Ltd. to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

My journey so far has been extremely positive. Being able to get work experience and a good qualification whilst working in a school has been invaluable. You could do same qualification at a college but it just would not be the same. Having real life work experience "on the job" is essential to discover whether you are really doing something you enjoy.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Inspire ATA Ltd.?

Go for it. A year goes really quickly and you will have a good opportunity to work in good workplace, with great support from Inspire ATA. You will meet new people and friends and get a good qualification at the end. I would highly recommend.