Apprenticeships

Level 5 Teaching Assistant (SEND-Focused Pathway)

Cost: £12,000
Eligible for funding by UK Apprenticeship Levy / Government Funding
Duration: 21 Months

Qualification Overview

Level 5 Teaching Assistants play a vital role in leading and enhancing inclusive learning and support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Our SEN-focused Level 5 Teaching Assistant qualification is designed for experienced TAs who want to specialise in SEND—taking on greater responsibility, influencing practice, and making a meaningful whole-school impact.

Ideal Candidates

This programme is ideal for committed professionals who are:

  • Experienced in supporting teaching and learning for pupils with SEN and additional needs

  • Passionate about inclusion, pupil wellbeing, and removing barriers to learning

  • Eager to take on a leadership role in planning, delivering, and coordinating SEN support

This Qualification Covers:

Understanding a wide range of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), including ASD, SEMH, ADHD, and learning difficulties
Inclusive teaching strategies to support access, engagement, and progress for all learners
Supporting individual education plans (IEPs), EHCP outcomes, and personalised learning approaches
Promoting pupil wellbeing, emotional regulation, and positive behaviour support
Working collaboratively with teachers, SENCOs, parents, and external professionals
Using assessment and observation to identify needs and inform targeted support
Leading and coordinating SEN interventions within the classroom and wider school setting
Adapting learning environments, resources, and activities to remove barriers to learning
Safeguarding, equality, and inclusive practice within a SEND context
Developing leadership skills to support whole-school SEND provision and best practice

Core Skills Developed:

Advanced understanding of SEND and inclusive education practices
Effective communication with pupils, families, teachers, SENCOs, and multi-agency professionals
Planning, delivering, and evaluating targeted SEN interventions
Observation, assessment, and evidence-based decision making
Behaviour support strategies, including emotional regulation and de-escalation
Adaptation of teaching methods, resources, and learning environment
Leadership and coordination of SEND support within the school setting
Advocacy for pupils with SEN, promoting equality and inclusion
Reflective practice and continuous professional development
Confidence to take on increased responsibility and contribute to whole-school SEND strategy

Why pursue a Qualification in Teaching?

Whether you’re looking to hire an apprentice or considering our Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship for yourself, this program offers valuable benefits for both aspiring leaders and organisations.

Our apprenticeship structure allocates 80% of the week to hands-on, on-the-job learning, allowing apprentices to contribute as vital team members, while the remaining 20% is dedicated to online training and educational modules. This flexible approach ensures convenience for both apprentices and employers, as all coursework is conducted online.

What Makes Us Different

We believe in offering more than just a learning experience- we provide a holistic journey designed to help you thrive

FAQs

If you are looking for more information regarding our Qualifications, check out our FAQs and find the answers to your questions.

The apprenticeship is funded through government funds, with the amount depending on whether the employer is a levy or non-levy payer. Levy-paying employers contribute through the apprenticeship levy, while non-levy employers receive government funding to cover a portion of training costs. Employers also pay the apprentice\’s wages and may contribute to training costs.

Apprenticeships are available to people of all ages, with no upper age limit.

To be eligible for an apprenticeship in England, you typically need to have lived in the UK for at least 3 years before starting the apprenticeship. You must also be at least 16 years old and have a job or apprenticeship offer with an employer. Specific entry requirements may apply depending on the apprenticeship level. For more details, you can check the official GOV.UK website.

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Level 4 Associate Project Manager

The Level 4 APM apprenticeship develops core project management skills for those supporting or starting to lead projects. It focuses on planning, delivery, risk, stakeholder communication, and basic governance, helping you contribute effectively to successful project outcomes. It’s ideal for those progressing beyond entry-level roles and looking to build a pathway into more advanced project management positions.

Still have questions?

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is ready to provide the answers you’re looking for.

Testimonials

\”Riverside have been incredible in supporting my journey to complete three qualifications since 2019. With dedicated tutors guiding me every step of the way, I’ve grown from a Business Administration apprentice to an HR Consultant. All the tutors were so helpful and supportive—I couldn’t have asked for more!\”

HR Consultant - Cotswold BMW
Lauren

\”Throughout the Customer Service Specialist Level 3 apprenticeship, the support I received from my tutors was exceptional. They were patient, inspiring, and highly knowledgeable. The course has significantly boosted my confidence, both personally and professionally.\”

Senior Sales & Events Manager - Green Dragon
Katie

I am so pleased I chose Riverside Training to complete my level 7 Senior Leader apprenticeship, the teaching was extremely high quality, insightful and interesting. In addition the support from my tutor was fantastic, It made such a difference knowing support was there for me at any point.  

I learnt so much for this apprenticeship, it gave me the strategic knowledge I needed to develop in my role and it has helped me gain great organisational awareness. Thanks so much to the team at Riverside!

Vocational Development Manager - NHS
The team at Riverside genuinely takes the time to understand our business needs, tailoring apprenticeships to align with our values and the individual requirements of our apprentices. They offer fantastic support and guidance, which is playing a key role in our apprentices’ development within the organisation.
Head of Academy & Designated Safeguarding Lead at Aspens

Apprenticeships are a smart, practical option for CLdN to close skills gaps within the Port Industry.  By investing in development of our employees, it ensures we train in the right skills.

CLdN have worked with Riverside Training for several years, helping us build skilled teams through apprenticeships with their hands-on approach and the support they’ve shown our learners.  With supportive trainers, understanding our business needs, it’s enabled tailoring of the training, providing extra support to our learners.

Learning & Development Manager UK at CLDN