This programme is subject to validation.

The broad purpose of a specialist teaching assistant is to support the education of learners by providing support. Specialist teaching assistants plan, implement, and adapt activities in order to advance learning. They draw on research to develop a critical understanding of their specialist area. They establish relationships with learners, families, other professionals and external agencies to support the education of the learners they work with. They contribute to developing a sense of inclusion and belonging for the benefit of the learners within the communities that they serve. They draw on their specialism to contribute to the evaluation of learning and assessment activities and sustainability in their educational context. Specialist teaching assistants both reflect on their own practices and support the training and development of others within their chosen specialist area. Social and emotional well-being specialist teaching assistants support the implementation of policy, processes, and procedures in this area. They will focus on learners’ social and emotional well-being, to advance learning.