Hollie’s Journey to becoming a Teaching Assistant

Jun 19, 2024 | Apprenticeships, Ladder News, News

Hollie Peterson has recently achieved a distinction upon completing her TA Level 3 Apprenticeship. She is based at Stroud Green Primary School and decided to complete her apprenticeship with us at Heart of England Training.

Hollie has put in so much hard work, time, and dedication into her apprenticeship and after receiving her result, it all proves to be worthwhile! Hollie went on to take us through her journey with HOET from start to finish, describing her experience as a whole and why she chose to become a TA.

“I chose to work as a TA as I have also had a passion for working with children and I wanted to make a difference in children’s lives. I wanted to make a positive impact, so they feel like school is fun and enjoyable but also safe too! My next steps are to continue with the work as a TA and then look into extending my knowledge as my future career goal is to either be a school counsellor or Youth support worker/mentor.”

The Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship

Our Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Course currently has a 94% pass rate and is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours to understand pupils’ learning and development, support assessment and add value to education.

During your apprenticeship as a Teaching Assistant, you could be working in primary, special and secondary education across all age ranges encompassing special educational needs and emotional vulnerabilities. The role of the Teaching Assistant is to support the class teacher to enhance pupils learning either in groups or individually, ensuring pupils understand the work set, know their learning objectives, and stay on task to make progress.

Hollie’s Next Steps

Hollie then told us that her next steps are to continue with the work as a TA and then look into extending her knowledge as her future career goal is to either be a school counsellor or Youth support worker/mentor.

Learner Feedback

Hollie explained that she found her training from HOET very easy going. She stated that her educator, Shannon, made sure that she always knew what she was doing.

“Shannon has been supportive and empathetic throughout. She ensured that I had all the help possible with extra revision sessions in order to help me pass my maths.”

Hollie also elaborated on how fun and interesting her day courses were. Being able to learn in a group has made her feel less alone in the apprenticeship. It helped her gain knowledge in all aspects of the course.

“The break-out rooms during the day courses were really enjoyable. It was really interesting to be able to speak with different people working in different schools around England. I enjoyed hearing their experiences on how they are finding the apprenticeship and life working in schools.”

Hollie’s Role Post-Apprenticeship

“My apprenticeship is very beneficial to my role as I now understand why I do what I do in depth. I also feel more confident now than what I did when I started my apprenticeship. I now know how to be the best role model to the children I look after within my school and to ensure they have an enjoyable learning experience with loads of different resources.”

Hollie’s manager has expressed how far she has come from the start, elaborating on how much she uses her initiative more and knowing what to do in any situation that happens throughout the day.

“I feel so much more confident within myself! I remember my first review and I went through all the criteria I needed to know for my apprenticeship, and I was so confused and lost on what any of them meant.”

Hollie remembers when she first started, her educator told her “By the end you will know what it all means and you will be scoring a 10” and Hollie has found confidence in the fact that she wasn’t wrong!

Hollie’s experience with Heart of England Training

“I would 100% recommend doing an apprenticeship with HOET. One of the best things I’ve done to help with my future career!”

Hollie added on to this by giving one piece of advice that she would give to someone who is considering completing the Level 3 TA Apprenticeship.

“Take the chance! It truly is a great experience especially if you have a passion for working with children and making a difference, this would be a great start.”

“You may be thinking there’s so much to do or you don’t have the time to complete the apprenticeship, but there’s so much support within school and HOET to make sure you get where you need throughout your apprenticeship. It also goes by so quickly! You will be shocked where the time has gone!”

Employer Feedback

Hollie’s employer, Coelina Carter, also has some lovely feedback to give about Hollie and what it has been like working alongside her.

“Having had the pleasure of working closely with Hollie throughout her Teaching Assistant training, I can confidently attest to her outstanding commitment, unwavering enthusiasm, and exceptional dedication to her role. Hollie’s passion for education shines through in every interaction she has with both students, parents and staff alike.”.

Coelina then told us that during Hollie’s training, she exhibited a remarkable ability to adapt to various teaching methodologies. Demonstrating a deep understanding of pedagogical principles and a genuine desire to support student learning.

“Whether assisting in lesson planning, providing one-on-one support, or facilitating group activities, Hollie consistently approached her responsibilities with professionalism and a positive attitude.”

Hollie’s empathy and patience made her particularly adept at connecting with students of diverse backgrounds and abilities, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every individual feels valued and empowered to succeed.

“Beyond her technical skills, Hollie possesses a rare blend of empathy, compassion, and resilience that sets her apart as an exemplary Teaching Assistant. She is not only passionate about helping students achieve their academic goals but also deeply invested in their personal growth and well-being.”

In conclusion, Coelina said that she has no doubt that Hollie will continue to excel in her role as a teaching assistant, positively impacting the lives of countless students and contributing significantly to the educational community.

“It has been a privilege to witness her growth and development throughout her training, and I wholeheartedly am delighted she is part or our team and community.”

Educator Feedback

Shannon Lynskey is one of the many amazing educators that we have here at HOET. She delivered all of Hollie’s training throughout her apprenticeship. She has given some feedback on what it has been like educating Hollie, and the progress that she has made along the way.

“Hollie has shown great determination and dedication towards the completion of her apprenticeship. Not only completing the TA Standard, but also her Functional Skills in Maths.”

“It’s been wonderful to hear about the opportunities which Hollie has been able to complete within her role, due to the apprenticeship and her confidence growing. Hollie, you have worked extremely hard to get to where you are today – you should be proud of what you have achieved.”

Want to take the next steps?

Is your business looking for an apprentice? Contact us to find out more or take a look at our Apprenticeship Information for Employers.

We also offer a wide variety of courses for Schools across a broad range of sectors.

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