PDA EDUCATION SUPPORT ASSISTANT - FULL TIME

Intro to the course:

This course is designed to develop and enhance the knowledge, skills, values and competencies for those wishing to work with, or already working with, children and young people in an education setting.  

An Education support assistant has an important role to play in shaping a child’s learning, by creating a positive and supportive environment for all. Research shows that when Support Assistants are deployed effectively, with appropriate training and support, they can make a significant contribution to pupils' learning and wellbeing.  

The course will be delivered in college with placement attendance required.. You will also have the opportunity to put your knowledge into practice and further develop your skills by working in an educational setting, 2 days per week, alongside qualified professionals, supporting the learning and development of children and young people. 

Throughout the course you will have lots of fun learning opportunities such as practical play, interesting speakers, outdoor learning, community partnership events and team building activities.  

Who is the course for?

The course is appropriate for those who are currently employed or considering employment in the education sector or wish to progress onto further study in education. 

What will I study?

This course will cover areas such as: 

Understanding & Developing Professional Practice 

Development of Children and Young People  

Supporting the Behaviour of Children and Young People 

Supporting Children and Young People who require Additional Support for Learning 

Protecting and Promoting the Rights of the Child 

Planning for Practice (Nurturing approaches) 

Supporting Playwork Practice 

Next step course options

Upon successful completion of the course, it may be possible to progress onto HNC Childhood Practice. South Lanarkshire College currently run the HNC Childhood Practice Next Gen, which is an exciting development within the HNC programs. 

You will develop the underpinning skill set to progress within Early Education, with transferable skills across a multitude of courses. 

How will I be assessed?

There are a variety of assessment techniques employed including; 

• Open book assessments
• Closed book assessments
• Posters
• Presentation
• Group work 

Our Extended Learning Support Team can discuss support for assessments and classwork. 

Why should I choose this course?

The course can provide you with a guaranteed interview with South Lanarkshire Council for an Education Support Assistant role. Through a holistic approach, you will develop the skill set for the role as well as developing your core skills and underpinning knowledge within education. 

Where can this course lead?

This course supports employment as a Education Support Assistant. As part of this course, you are guaranteed an interview with South Lanarkshire Council. 

What are the entry requirements?

The minimum entry requirements for this course are: 

• Suitable reference provided. 
• Attendance at an interview / information sessions
• Personal statement detailing why you are suitable for the course and your plans for afterwards. 

If you are unsuccessful in gaining a space on this course, we may offer you a space on another course. 

What are the interview arrangements?

You will be invited to the college for an interview on review of your application. 

Fees, finance and funding

Fees for full time is £1008

This course is eligible for Bursary.

Please note, fees are subject to change, please double-check this when enrolling in your course

If you are unsuccessful in your Bursary application, you may be liable for the full cost of course

For more information please visit the finance pages - Fees, finance and funding options.

Other information:

South Lanarkshire College has free on site parking and is local to the town centre which is a short walk away. 

There is an on campus library and computer suite with the learning support hub available to speak to regarding assessment support and study skills. 

Within the building we have various catering facilities and a hair salon with spa. 

Our lecturing team have industry experience and can draw on their knowledge to provide you with a positive leanring experience. 

Full time course: Full time - College and Placement