Teaching Assistant Harvey develops SEND skills through apprenticeship
Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for new talent to enter the workforce, gaining a qualification and experience at the same time. An Inspire ATA learner that benefitted greatly from this feature of apprenticeships is Harvey Somerville, a Level 3 Teaching Assistant SEND Pathway apprentice from Thomas Bewick School. Here is his story:
“I chose this apprenticeship programme as not only do I receive a qualification which aligns perfectly with my long-term career goals, but I also gain some very valuable classroom experience which allows me to gain knowledge and good practice.
I decided to do an apprenticeship over college as it provides a combination of hands-on experience within a classroom, industry-specific training and a salary.
The main benefits of an apprenticeship are being able to earn a salary while gaining practical, on the job experience and a nationally recognised qualification.
My proudest achievement is staying committed to both placement and coursework as it is something I thought I’d struggle with. I’ve proven to myself that I can do it and no goal is out of reach.
The thing I am enjoying most is the placement. I’ve gained a plethora of relationships with both pupils and staff. Also, seeing all the progress the pupils make within their development whilst I’m working alongside them is so rewarding and makes it all so worth it.
A skill that I have developed would be my patience. Since beginning my placement in a SEN school, I’ve learnt that patience is key for not only my benefit but the pupils too.
Teaching assistants are crucial for SEND pupils as they provide personalised academic and emotional support, bridge gaps in understanding, help implement everyone education health care plans (EHCPS) and help manage classroom behaviour which enables teachers to focus on core instruction while ensuring every student access learning and feels included.
I feel my work has had a positive impact upon pupils as I’ve been patient with building trust which then allows them to feel safe within my company. I also feel like me constantly trying to maximise their capabilities allows they’re development to progress further.
After this programme I wish to stay in my current school and gain a lot more valuable knowledge and experience before excelling into teaching.”
Well done, Harvey, best of luck in the future!
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