Course Overview
This course is designed for unemployed adults who are passionate about supporting children and young people in their education and want a clear route into school-based employment.
This programme provides sector-specific training that prepares you for the realities of working in a school or college environment. You’ll gain an understanding of how schools operate, the role of teaching assistants, and the importance of safeguarding, professionalism, and effective communication when supporting learners.
Throughout the course, you’ll work towards a qualification in Preparing to Work in Schools and Colleges, giving you a nationally recognised qualification that demonstrates your readiness to work in education settings. Alongside this, you’ll complete an Award in Employability Skills, helping you build confidence, develop workplace behaviours, and understand employer expectations.
Training is delivered in a supportive and inclusive learning environment, making the course ideal if you’re returning to work, changing career, or taking your first steps into education. You’ll explore key topics such as safeguarding and child protection, professional conduct, supporting learning activities, and working as part of a school team.
A key benefit of the Teaching Assistant SWAP is the guaranteed job interview with one of Hull College’s partner employers on successful completion of the programme. This direct link to employment gives you a real opportunity to move straight into work.
The course also introduces clear progression routes, allowing you to continue developing your skills and qualifications if you wish to progress further within education. By the end of the programme, you’ll feel confident, prepared, and ready to begin a rewarding career supporting learners to achieve their potential.
Entry Requirements
Must be unemployed or a jobseeker claiming either Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
Entry Requirements:
No formal qualifications are required
Course Highlights
Course Units
To be confirmed but could include:
L2 Safeguarding Children and Young People
L2 Conflict Management
Employability Skills (CV Support)
Functional Skills (If required)
E3 British Values
L1 Preparing to Teach in Schools and Colleges
L2 Preparing to Teach in Schools and Colleges
An Awareness of Learning difficulties within young people.
Course Breakdown
Course Structure
The programme is delivered through a combination of tutor-led sessions, practical activities, group discussions, and employability workshops. Learning focuses on real manufacturing workplace scenarios, including health and safety, teamwork, communication, quality awareness, and productivity. Sessions are interactive and designed to build confidence, helping learners understand employer expectations and the day-to-day demands of manufacturing roles. Tutors provide guidance throughout the course, with opportunities to practise workplace behaviours and prepare for interviews. The programme concludes with employability support to help you feel ready for your guaranteed job interview.
Progression & Next Steps
Completing this SWAP can lead directly into employment as a teaching assistant or classroom support worker. You may also progress onto further training, including the Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges and safeguarding qualifications, supporting longer-term career development in education.