Tell us about you, why you opted for a career in education, and why you chose to study with Tes Institute.
I have a wealth of experience in several business sectors. My main role was as a purchasing assistant, where I worked for the same company for 10 years and loved everything about my job. The fact I was working for an art and craft supplier was a bonus. I have a natural flair for anything to do with art, it was my preferred subject in high school and the one I most enjoy. In my current primary school, I’m known by the children for my amazing 3D displays!
I came across an advert for a midday supervisor based at a local school. The role was for an hour and 10 minutes a day, supervising children during the lunch break, I applied and was successful! Within the month I’d made a good impression and was asked to cover sickness for a learning support assistant (LSA), which lasted six months. Funding was then secured for another child with additional needs; I was asked to apply for the LSA post and proved to be successful once more which took me from the autumn term to the summer term.
I then applied for an internal teaching assistant role which would be for reduced hours, I took a chance and was accepted for the role. Over the summer holidays I was informed that a full-time position was available, and it would be temporary while I completed the qualifications required.
I studied functional skills English and maths for two evenings a week for a year. While I waited for my exam results, I started to search for Level 3 TA courses via the government website where I came across Tes Institute.
How did you find the application process?
I applied for more information outlining the funding that was available, what entry level requirements were needed, and the time frame the course would take. The whole process was very simple and stress free.
Tes Institute contacted my school’s business manager and planned for me to start the course and although I had failed my maths exam, they gave me the option to restart the course and work on it alongside my Level 3. I felt so much happier about that, and it was a relief to know that everything was under one roof!
What do you enjoy most about the course?
My course has study time each week allocated within the working day to complete the monthly online modules set by Tes Institute. I observe my peers’ lessons and find a way to implement their strategies into my intervention groups. I’m then observed working with my groups and given feedback on what went well and what I can do to improve.
As part of the apprenticeship course, Tes Institute allocated me a pathway tutor and requested that a colleague was appointed as a mentor. This is invaluable as they provide assistance and help to keep me on track. Most importantly, they observe my learning techniques and give me professional feedback.
What I like most about Tes Institute is that I don’t feel like I’m studying! I’m in the classroom, doing my duty, working with children, and helping them to grow while also working towards a nationally recognised qualification.
For anyone wanting a career in education I would advise you to do it, seek advice from Tes Institute and all they have to offer! I came across this career by accident, I wasn’t looking for it, but I am so glad I found it.
To find out more about developing your career as a TA while you continue to work and earn in your current school, or to apply, visit our Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship course page.
