Targeted CPD for Teaching Assistants: Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools

Research and guidance from the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) has shown how Teaching Assistants can be deployed effectively (Sharples et al., 2015). The research shows that Teaching Assistants who are sufficiently trained and used correctly within the classroom can have a positive impact on pupil engagement and attainment.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training is essential for Teaching Assistants. It can help colleagues to identify and address potential issues and challenges which could arise with both pupils and staff. It also enables Teaching Assistants to gain up to date knowledge on national policies and guidance.

South Farnham School’s Teaching Assistant Development Programme provides participants with:

• Increased understanding of how to support effective teaching and learning under everyday classroom conditions and when delivering structured interventions out of class.
• Access to an interactive approach which helps participants to develop and reflect upon teaching and learning to enhance classroom performance.
• Interactive online workshops and independent personalised modules to be completed by participants in between sessions supported by a range of digital research and resources.
• Access to a course developed in partnership with the National Association Professional Teaching Assistants, drawing upon the guidance and recommendations from the EEF Making Best Use of Teaching Assistants research. 
• A certificate to provide demonstrate that they have engaged with the course and completed all the sessions and assignments. 

Feedback from our participants:

"There was a wide range of courses, it was easy to follow and there were further resources to look at and all written by accredited authors."

"I felt the options of learning material was extensive."

"The content has been hugely relevant and provides information I can relate to within my work environment."

"The online training has been clear, concise and very easy to navigate. Plus, the personal introduction and the regular online meetings have been worthwhile."

"The online content is very simple to follow, well laid out. Course content was both rigid in terms of my requirements, but flexible to move into other areas."