This core content underpins the specialist teaching assistant's role, covering legislation, inclusive practice, assessment, and professional development. It ensures candidates can apply advanced knowledge to support teaching and learning effectively, particularly for pupils with additional needs, and demonstrate competency in collaborative, reflective practice to meet the Level 5 occupational standard.
The Elite Awarding Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant End-Point Assessment (EPA) is the final stage of the Specialist Teaching Assistant apprenticeship standard. It assesses your competence in working with teachers to plan, deliver, and evaluate learning activities, as well as supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This EPA is crucial because it validates that you can operate at a higher level than a standard teaching assistant, taking on more responsibility for curriculum delivery and pupil progress.
The assessment consists of three components: a professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, a practical observation of your teaching practice, and a knowledge test. You must demonstrate deep understanding of pedagogy, child development, and inclusive practice. Successfully passing this EPA confirms you are a highly skilled practitioner capable of leading interventions and contributing to whole-school improvement.
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