Does anyone here work as a teaching assistant? (LSA)

tiff

I have been doing a lot of reading since I posted. If I went for a job and offered to get my qualification, would Cache Level 2 be the one to go for? I cant find any NVQ's on our local college website, just Cache level 2 and 3.

Thanks for all your help, my DH is printing off the application form at work so I can complete it tonight.

bestpud

I believe the cache is for under 5s - as in nursery work rather than in schools?

There are specific qualifications for teaching assistants and LSAs.

It may be worth ringing your local college and asking?

bestpud

This seems quite a comprehensive piece:

http://www.learndirect-advice.co.uk/helpwithyourcareer/jobprofiles/profiles/profile180/

Rachie_B

I'd go for a level 3 if you can, as this will be more beneficial in the long run

Many schools want at least a level 3 qualification these days, and it would open more doors to you

Good luck

Oldernotwiser

There is both an NVQ 2 and 3 in Learning Support and you would normally have to do level 2 first. If you don't have any experience of working with children, you might be expected to start off with the Cache level 2. Many people got into this type of work a few years ago when qualifications were less important. Nowadays you're unlikely to get a post without a relevant qualification and/or experience.

samanthag

as posted before i am an lsa and through working at school i am doing a cache level 3 teaching assistant course and my nvq 3 the cache isnt too bad i have handed in my first assignment but i dont know the result yet fingers crossed lol i have only one more assignment to do and then the cache is finished with i did not have to pay for these courses as they were funded for by the school
hope this helps
sammy

affordmylife

Hi
I started as an MDSA in September in a special needs school. Within a month I was asked if I would work as a T\A on a supply basis. In January I began a two days a week contract and supply the rest of the time. This suits me very well as if I had a contract I would have to go in five days a week without fail. At this moment in time ( my youngest is 7) I still want the flexibility to attend her sports days, assemblies and school plays etc.

Maybe if it is not a major money issue you could consider approaching the school and asking if they need any MDSA's and once in you would be in a really good position to see if you like the kids, staff and the job!!! Then you would also have experience if something came up (which it always does)it apply. Good luck with the decision. Also I have no qualifications apart from being a mum and now earn nearly £9 per hour at my convenience. I can say no when I want which is really great.

tiff

Sorry, what is an MDSA? I only just know what an SMA is lol

I think if I dont get the job then volunteering is the way to go as people have said. Thanks everyone, will let you know if I get anything.

bestpud

I think it's a 'dinner lady'.

Rachie_B

think is stands for, Mid Day Supervisory Assistant ?

yup a dinner lady lol