Support Work in Schools and Colleges

Qualification Level

You will study towards the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges.

Duration of programme 

This qualification can usually be completed in one academic year. You will complete one unit per half term.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course but a strong interest in education and childhood studies is essential.

What does the course involve? 

If you have a keen interest in the areas of Childhood Studies and Education, this course is for you. It will provide you with an understanding of the knowledge needed to prepare for working in a range of roles in schools and colleges and other community settings.

It can apply to the many varied roles that support staff may fulfil including roles that work directly with children and young people in schools and colleges, as well as administrative roles, site support roles, technical roles and community volunteers.

The qualification is aimed at students who are thinking of working in a school or college setting, including young people, mature students, students with special educational needs or where English is an additional language.

This is a knowledge-only qualification. You do not need to be working or undertaking practical placements to take this qualification. However, you will go on curriculum visits to local schools and nurseries to develop your vocational knowledge.

There are six mandatory units that you will need to complete to pass the course.

• Understand Children and Young People's Development
• Safeguarding Children and Young People
• Understand Children and Young People's Health and Safety
• Understand Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Work with Children and Young People
• Understand Communication and Professional Relationships with Children, Young People and Adults
• Understand Schools and Colleges as Organisations

Teaching Methods 

Sessions are taught using a variety of teaching methods designed to suit individual needs and will include written and practical, hands-on learning to develop work-related skills.

Assessment

You will be taking part in different types of learning activities and assignment tasks to form a portfolio of coursework. Your portfolio will evidence your subject knowledge and skills. All pieces of coursework will count towards your qualification. There are no examinations for this course.

The final end of programme grade for this course is either Pass or Refer.

Where will it take me? 

Successful completion of this course equips you for entry level employment. Students who have successfully completed this course in the past have gained paid employment in schools, while others have gone into voluntary work in childcare settings or pursued further studies.