The Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship is typically a 15-18 month programme designed to nurture those who wish to become a classroom or 1:1 Teaching Assistant. There are a variety of contexts within which it is possible to complete this qualification, with apprentices working within Primary and Secondary Schools, as well as that of Special Educational Needs settings, pupil referral units and even our own post-16 and degree courses hosted through Argyle Community Trust.
Rachele Greco has recently completed her apprenticeship based at the Primary School of Mayflower Community Academy. Rachele’s passion for education and desire to inspire children has been infectious to all those who have had the pleasure of supporting her on her apprenticeship journey.
Commenting upon Rachele’s development, her tutor Kayleigh Clark highlights how “Rachele started her apprenticeship in January 2023 with the hope of finding long term employment within a school. Rachele was very engaged in each and every theory session and she had the passion to learn and put this knowledge into practice.
When completing her observations, Rachele would go above and beyond. During one session I observed, Rachele was given the opportunity to complete a project based on the topic of healthy eating. Rachele took this opportunity to show what she could do. She recorded the story of ‘The Hungry Caterpillar’ both in English and her native language of Italian. She shared this with the class, and this seemed to really capture their love of reading. She encouraged them to ask questions and she shared a Sicilian orange cake which she had made so she could further explore the healthy eating topic.
Throughout her apprenticeship, Rachele looked for various other opportunities to support the school and the local community. Her love of art shone through and eventually Rachele had set up an after-school art club which I know she thoroughly enjoyed.
Alongside all of this, Rachele also had to gain her English functional skills. Rachele took this in her stride and successfully completed this.
Rachele was a pleasure to teach, and it was amazing to watch her grow and become more confident in her ability within the role.”
The end point assessment element of any apprenticeship can perhaps be compared to that of a driving test, however should not be met with anxiety, as they are a genuine opportunity to celebrate success. We are delighted that this has been the case for Rachele, who completed her end point assessment through the awarding body Active IQ.
A huge and heartfelt congratulations to Rachele and thank you for your hard work and the impact on the children you have supported through your apprenticeship – you are a wonderful reminder to us as educators why we work in the sector!
