Level 5 Diploma in Specialist Teaching Assistant

Overview

The NQual Level 5 Diploma in Specialist Teaching Assistant is an Ofqual‑regulated qualification for training providers to deliver, designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of experienced teaching assistants, enabling them to take on more advanced roles within education settings. It aims to improve the consistency and quality of support provided to learners with complex needs. A specialist teaching assistant is found in primary, secondary, special schools, alternative provision, further education institutes such as sixth forms and colleges, and a range of other education settings.

This qualification includes a route of different specialisms through the choice of optional units, which include SEND Specialist, Social and Emotional Well-being Specialist and Curriculum Specialist.

This qualification includes the ‘Higher Level Teaching Assistant’ optional unit, to support and better prepares learners for completing the HLTA status. This unit does not provide learners with HLTA status; however, supports the preparation for undergoing HLTA status assessment.

This qualification is awarded by NQual, an Ofqual‑regulated Awarding Organisation, and is available to approved centres.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for The NQual Level 5 Diploma in Specialist Teaching Assistant qualification are:

• Minimum age 18

• Prior teaching assistant experience

• Be employed full or part-time in a school or educational setting, working with children or young people

• Learners should hold or be working towards a Level 2 qualification in maths and English or equivalent.

Unit Guidance

Learners must achieve all mandatory units and a minimum of 20 optional unit credits. The total credit value for this qualification is 120.

Guided Learning Hours (GLH)

These hours are made up of contact time, guidance or supervision from course tutors, trainers, or training providers. The Guided Learning Hours for this qualification is 335.

Total Qualification Time (TQT)

This is an estimate of the total length of time it is expected that a learner will typically take to achieve and demonstrate the level of understanding required for the award of this qualification. This includes the Guided Learning Hours and time spent completing independent study.

The Total Qualification Time for this qualification is 1200.

Delivery Options for Training Providers

NQual allows qualifications to be delivered both online and face-to-face. Please check the additional requirements with your Centre EQA if delivering qualifications online.