The Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship SEND pathway is a 15–18 month virtual programme designed to support pupils with SEND and enhance whole-class practice. It includes online learning, webinars, tutor visits, and off-the-job training of at least 300 hours. Suitable for current and aspiring teaching assistants, it concludes with an End Point Assessment and offers progression to HLTA status or teacher training. Entry requires UK residency and work rights, with support for English and maths if needed.
The Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) pathway, is a 15–18 month virtual programme. It develops the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to support pupils with SEND while strengthening your whole-class practice.
Who the SEND pathway is for
The Teaching Assistant apprenticeship SEND pathway is suitable for:
- Current teaching assistants who want to deepen their impact.
- Aspiring teaching assistants seeking high-quality training and support to start their career.
More information is available on the Teaching Assistant Level 3 page.
How long the programme takes
The apprenticeship typically takes 15–18 months. It concludes with an End Point Assessment (EPA).
Your most realistic programme duration will be confirmed during your enrolment meeting. This will be based on your contracted working hours and the time needed to meet the off-the-job training requirement.
How the programme is delivered
The Teaching Assistant apprenticeship SEND pathway is delivered virtually through step-by-step online learning and monthly webinars. It includes a built-in SEND specialism and support from a dedicated Apprenticeship Tutor.
You will also receive regular in-school tutor visits. Your progress is clearly tracked through the Bud e-portfolio platform.
What you will learn
The programme develops practical strategies and skills that help you:
- Support children to participate and feel confident.
- Use positive approaches to behaviour.
- Notice and respond when pupils are struggling.
- Apply everyday safeguarding and care skills.
- Support pupils with SEND while strengthening whole-class practice.
How often you will see your tutor
You can expect tutor visits roughly every four to six weeks. You will also have structured six-weekly reviews and ongoing support.
What support you will receive
You will receive support from a personal Apprenticeship Tutor, alongside structured teaching and reviews. Group webinars are also included.
You can access wellbeing support through BPN Boost, and your progress is tracked on Bud. You can also apply for a TOTUM Student Discount Card.
What the entry requirements are
To join the Teaching Assistant apprenticeship SEND pathway, you must:
- Have lived in the UK for at least three consecutive years.
- Have the right to work and study in the UK.
If you do not already have General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) English and maths at grade 4 (C) or above, you will complete Functional Skills English and maths during the programme. One-to-one tutor support is provided.
Some routes also note five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, or relevant experience. Check the programme page for the requirements that apply to your route.
What off-the-job training involves
Off-the-job training is guided learning completed during your paid working hours. It focuses on developing new knowledge and skills.
For the Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship, you must complete at least 300 hours of off-the-job training over the programme. During your enrolment meeting, Best Practice Network will confirm a realistic programme duration based on your contracted working hours so that you can meet this requirement.
You can also read the Teaching Assistant apprenticeship programme guide.
How you will be assessed
You will complete an End Point Assessment after your training. It has two assessment methods:
- A practical observation with questions and answers.
- A professional discussion supported by your portfolio.
The End Point Assessment usually takes place within one to two months after training and no later than three months afterwards.
How much the apprenticeship costs and how it is funded
Check the Best Practice Network website for current training costs, employer contributions, Apprenticeship Levy and government co-funding arrangements, and any incentives for small employers or younger apprentices.
What you can progress to
Common next steps after completing the Teaching Assistant apprenticeship SEND pathway include:
- Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) status.
- The Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant programme.
- Teacher training leading to qualified teacher status (QTS).
After completing your End Point Assessment, you are eligible for Best Practice Network's HLTA fast-track route.
When the programme starts
The programme brochure notes that starts take place termly. Check the programme page for current cohort dates and application deadlines.
How to apply
- Check that you meet the eligibility requirements.
- Submit an application through the programme page.
- Best Practice Network will guide you and your school through approval and the next steps.