Currently, we have 58 staff undertaking their Level 3 SEND Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship, along with 24 staff working towards the Specialist Teaching Assistant Level 5 qualification with BeReady.

We’re thrilled to share an outstanding achievement as Elisa from Frederick Holmes School has completed her Level 3 Apprenticeship three months ahead of schedule and achieved a distinction! We caught up with Elisa for an informal chat to find out how she managed such an amazing accomplishment.

What inspired you to start your Level 3 apprenticeship?

"I am a qualified MSI Intervenor working closely with pupils with PMLD sensory needs which inspired me to pursue further studies; everything just fell nicely into place.”

What strengths or skills did you discover whilst studying?

"I surprised myself one day by delivering a lesson by accident! I’d never felt confident standing up in front of a room, but I have now built up my confidence. I then went on to organise ‘Wear It Yellow Day’ at school, raising funds for the sensory phase in support of mental health.”

What have you learnt from completing your studies and what did you enjoy most about the course?

"I have learnt so much being immersed in the world of PMLD sensory. The pupil I help really inspired me to pursue these studies and I feel I’ve finally found my area."

"The theorist element was the most enjoyable part as I learnt so much, including scaffolding and other strategies. Seeing small pockets of progress has provided real job satisfaction."

How did you balance work and study and what’s your go to snack when studying?

"Using time wisely is the best advice I can give and there are so many staff I could tap into for support. I would like to thank my colleagues for their encouragement.”

"We have a snack box in the classroom; we all don’t get through the day without delving into it!"

What advice would you give anyone considering or starting this qualification?

"If the opportunity comes up - do it! Use the online support and resources available and don’t be afraid to do your own research. My Skills Coach even learnt from me in relation to MSI!"

How did it feel to pass with distinction?

"Surprise! I found it really rewarding that the knowledge I absorbed helped - I surprised myself with what I did know. I’d like to thank Helen and the team for all their support; it’s a great team!"

Helen Maddison, Headteacher at Frederick Holmes School, shared her pride in Elisa’s achievement: “Elisa has worked so hard to achieve her distinction and in completing the course so quickly. She is extremely dedicated and has worked extremely hard to complete the SEND Level 3 qualification. Elisa goes above and beyond to meet the needs of the children and young people she works with. She is an absolute asset to the school and a very committed member of staff, we are extremely proud of her and all her achievements.”

Elisa is already applying her new skills in the classroom and has used the Level 3 qualification as a stepping stone to the Specialist Teaching Assistant Level 5 qualification; we’re sure Elisa do just as well in her next round of studies.

Very well done Elisa - you should be incredibly proud!

Wishing our colleagues all the best with their studies, we look forward to hearing all about your successes!