Support the use of information and communication technology for teaching and learning — Industry Qualifications Vocationally-Related Qualification Learning Support Revision

    This element focuses on the practical skills and underpinning knowledge required to effectively support the integration of information and communication te

    Topic Synopsis

    This element focuses on the practical skills and underpinning knowledge required to effectively support the integration of information and communication technology (ICT) into teaching and learning environments. It covers understanding school policies and procedures, preparing hardware and software resources, and providing hands-on support to pupils and teachers to enhance learning outcomes through technology. Mastery ensures that support staff can contribute to safe, engaging, and inclusive ICT-based activities in schools.

    Key Concepts & Core Principles

    Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

    Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

    Examiner Marking Points

    Support the use of information and communication technology for teaching and learning

    INDUSTRY QUALIFICATIONS
    vocational

    This element focuses on the practical skills and underpinning knowledge required to effectively support the integration of information and communication technology (ICT) into teaching and learning environments. It covers understanding school policies and procedures, preparing hardware and software resources, and providing hands-on support to pupils and teachers to enhance learning outcomes through technology. Mastery ensures that support staff can contribute to safe, engaging, and inclusive ICT-based activities in schools.

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    Learning Outcomes
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    Assessment Guidance
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    Key Skills
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    Key Terms
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    Assessment Criteria

    Assessment criteria

    IQ Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools

    Topic Overview

    The IQ Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools is a vocationally-related qualification designed for individuals working or volunteering in a school setting under the direction of a qualified teacher. This qualification covers the essential knowledge and skills required to support pupils' learning, development, and well-being across the primary or secondary age range. It is a nationally recognised qualification in the UK, aligned with the National Occupational Standards for supporting teaching and learning, and provides a solid foundation for career progression in education.

    This certificate is particularly valuable for teaching assistants, learning support assistants, and other support staff who want to formalise their experience and gain a recognised credential. The qualification is structured around mandatory units that address key areas such as child development, safeguarding, communication, and supporting learning activities. By completing this certificate, you will develop a deeper understanding of how to effectively support teachers and pupils, contribute to a positive learning environment, and promote inclusive practice. It also serves as a stepping stone to higher-level qualifications, such as the Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning.

    In the context of the wider subject of Learning Support, this qualification ensures that support staff are equipped with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to meet the diverse needs of pupils. It emphasises the importance of working collaboratively with teachers, parents, and other professionals to create an inclusive and supportive educational experience. Mastery of this certificate demonstrates a commitment to professional development and a thorough understanding of the role of a teaching assistant in today's schools.

    Key Concepts

    Core ideas you must understand for this topic

    • →Child and young person development: Understanding the physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development stages from birth to 19 years, and how these impact learning and behaviour.
    • →Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children: Knowing the legal and procedural frameworks (e.g., Keeping Children Safe in Education) to protect pupils from harm, abuse, and neglect.
    • →Supporting learning activities: Planning, delivering, and evaluating learning activities under the guidance of a teacher, including differentiation and adaptation for individual needs.
    • →Communication and professional relationships: Developing effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills with pupils, colleagues, and parents, while maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries.
    • →Equality, diversity, and inclusion: Applying principles of inclusive practice to ensure all pupils have equal access to learning opportunities, respecting diverse backgrounds and needs.

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Know the policy and procedures for the use of ICT for teaching and learning, Be able to prepare ICT resources for use in teaching and learning, Be able to support the use of ICT for teaching and learning

    Assessment Criteria

    Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

    • Award credit for demonstrating a thorough understanding of the school's ICT acceptable use policy and its implications for supporting learning.
    • Evidence must show the ability to select and set up appropriate hardware and software for a specified learning activity, checking for functionality and accessibility.
    • Assessors should look for practical examples of supporting learners during ICT activities, such as troubleshooting, guiding safe internet use, or adapting resources for individual needs.

    Assessment Guidance

    Guidance for achieving higher grades

    • 💡When completing assignments or observed practice, always reference the specific policies of your placement school to demonstrate contextual understanding.
    • 💡Keep a reflective log detailing how you prepared and supported ICT resources, noting any adaptations made for SEN or EAL learners.
    • 💡During assessment observations, show proactive monitoring of pupil engagement with ICT to ensure safety and learning progress.
    • 💡When answering questions about safeguarding, always refer to current legislation (e.g., Children Act 2004, Working Together to Safeguard Children) and your school's policies. Use specific examples from your placement to show practical understanding.
    • 💡For questions on supporting learning activities, demonstrate how you differentiate tasks for different ability levels. Mention how you adapt resources, provide one-to-one support, or use questioning techniques to check understanding.
    • 💡In written assessments, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. This helps you provide clear, evidence-based examples that meet the assessment criteria.

    Common Mistakes

    Common errors to avoid in your coursework

    • Confusing the role of support staff with that of the teacher, such as taking over the activity rather than facilitating pupil use.
    • Failing to consider data protection and e-safety when preparing online resources.
    • Assuming all learners have the same level of digital literacy, leading to inadequate differentiation.
    • Misconception: The qualification is only for people who want to become teachers. Correction: While it can lead to teaching, it primarily prepares you for a career as a teaching assistant or learning support assistant, with many progression routes into specialist roles like SEN support or pastoral care.
    • Misconception: You need to have prior experience in a school to study this certificate. Correction: Many learners start without experience, as the qualification includes practical placements or work-based learning. However, being in a school setting is usually required to complete assessments.
    • Misconception: The certificate is the same as a Level 2 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship. Correction: This is a standalone qualification, not an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship combines work with study and includes an employment contract, while this certificate can be taken as a standalone course or as part of an apprenticeship framework.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions students ask about this topic

    Before You Start

    Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

    • •A good standard of English and maths (e.g., GCSE grade C/4 or equivalent) is recommended, as you will need to communicate effectively and support pupils with numeracy and literacy.
    • •A placement or employment in a school setting (voluntary or paid) is typically required to complete the practical assessments and gather evidence.
    • •Basic understanding of child development (e.g., from personal experience or introductory courses) can be helpful but is not essential.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    • Know the policy and procedures for the use of ICT for teaching and learning, Be able to prepare ICT resources for use in teaching and learning, Be able to support the use of ICT for teaching and learning

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