PDA EDUCATION SUPPORT ASSISTANT - FULL TIME

Intro to the course:

Want to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people?

Our 18-week Education Support Assistant course is designed for anyone who is interested in starting or developing a rewarding career supporting children and young people in an educational setting.

Education Support Assistants play a vital role in helping children and young people learn, grow, build confidence and reach their potential. Throughout the course, you’ll develop the knowledge, practical skills, professional values and confidence needed to provide positive and inclusive support for learners with a range of individual needs.

Learn it. Experience it. Put it into practice.

This is a practical course that combines college-based learning with valuable real-world experience. As part of the programme, you’ll spend two days each week on placement in an educational setting, working alongside experienced professionals and supporting the learning and development of children and young people.

This gives you the opportunity to put your learning into practice, build your confidence and develop valuable experience for your future career.

Learning that brings the subject to life

Learning on this course is active, engaging and varied. You can expect opportunities to take part in:

• Practical and play-based learning
• Outdoor learning experiences
• Guest speakers
• Community partnership activities and events
• Team-building activities
• Hands-on experience in an education setting

You’ll learn in a supportive environment where you’ll be encouraged to try new things, develop your skills and discover the difference you can make to the lives of children and young people.

If you’re enthusiastic, caring and ready to take the first step towards a rewarding career in education, this could be the course for you.

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

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

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

Other information:

At South Lanarkshire College, you’ll have access to a welcoming campus and a range of facilities designed to support you throughout your studies.

Getting to college is easy, with free on-site parking and the town centre just a short walk away. On campus, you’ll have access to our library and computer facilities, as well as the Learning Support Hub, where you can receive additional help with your studies, assessment support and developing your academic skills.

When it’s time to take a break, you can choose from a range of on-campus catering facilities, and the college is also home to its own hair salon and spa.

Learn from experienced professionals

You’ll be supported by a knowledgeable and approachable lecturing team with real industry experience. They’ll bring their professional knowledge into the classroom, helping you connect what you learn at college with the realities of working with children and young people.

A course designed around learning AND experience

Your week will combine face-to-face learning, online study and valuable workplace experience, giving you different ways to learn and develop your skills.

Your current timetable is planned to include:

• 1 day on campus enjoying interactive, practical learning
• 1 day online giving you greater flexibility in how you learn
• 1 evening session
• ‍ 2 days on placement gaining valuable hands-on experience in an educational setting

This combination means you won't just learn about becoming an Education Support Assistant. You'll have the opportunity to develop your skills, put them into practice and build real experience and confidence along the way.

Learn. Experience.Grow. Take your next step towards a rewarding career supporting children and young people.