The Best Course for Teaching Assistants: Your Complete Guide to Certification
The Best Course for Teaching Assistants: Your Complete Guide to Certification
Created:Updated: 01-September-2025
Choosing the best Teaching Assistant (TA) course depends on your starting point, your access to a school placement, and how quickly you want to be job-ready. This guide explains the recognised routes (Level 2–4), who each one suits, when a placement is required, and how to verify that a course is genuinely recognised.
First things first: choose a recognised route
Schools typically look for RQF-listed, Ofqual-regulated qualifications. The most widely recognised pathway is the NCFE CACHE “Supporting Teaching & Learning” (STL) suite at Level 2 and Level 3.
New to the sector and not in a school yet? Start with a Level 2 or Level 3 Award (knowledge-only, usually no placement). Already helping in a classroom (paid or voluntary)? Choose the Level 3 Certificate or Diploma to build your competence with in-school evidence.
Verify any course on the official database: Ofqual Register and read our explainer RQF, NCFE CACHE & Ofqual — Why They Matter.
Which TA course is best for me?
| Route | Best for | Placement | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 2 Award (STL) | Absolute beginners building confidence/knowledge | Not usually required | Knowledge certificate; great springboard to L3 |
| Level 3 Award (STL) | Career-changers who want a faster, knowledge-only start | Not usually required | Strong theory base; move on to L3 Cert/Dip with a school |
| Level 3 Certificate (STL) | Learners already in/able to secure a placement | Typically required (in-school evidence) | Full competence route for TA roles |
| Level 3 Diploma (STL) | Those seeking deeper practice (incl. SEN focus) | Required (evidence across broader criteria) | Stronger CV for SEN/lead support routes |
| Level 4 / HLTA | Experienced TAs taking on higher responsibility | Normally required | Advanced practice; sometimes includes class cover |
Award vs Certificate vs Diploma — quick explainer
- Awards = knowledge-only. Fastest way to start if you’re not yet in a school.
- Certificates/Diplomas = knowledge plus competence. You’ll collect in-class evidence through observations, witness testimonies and work products.
Unsure which to pick? Read Teaching Assistant Levels Explained and Do I Need a Placement?.
If you want SEN/Early Years
Planning to support SEND learners or the EYFS? The education-specific content in CACHE STL makes it a popular choice with SENCOs and EYFS leads. Start here: What Does an SEN Teaching Assistant Do? and Early Years vs School-Age Support.
How long will it take?
It depends on level, placement, and weekly study time. Awards can be completed sooner; Certificates/Diplomas take longer because of in-school evidence. See Portfolio & Evidence for TA Qualifications for what assessors look for.
Beware unrecognised “certificates”
If a course isn’t on the RQF and regulated by Ofqual, schools may not accept it. Always check the Ofqual Register and read our recognition explainer.
How to enrol (and try Unit 1 for free)
- Find your fit: Take the 60-second quiz or browse TA courses.
- Free look: Get immediate access to Unit 1 of your chosen course.
- Enrol online or by phone: flexible start dates, tutor and phone support.
- Get classroom-ready: secure/confirm a placement if your route requires one and begin building evidence.
Useful Guides & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Teaching Assistant course if I’m brand new?
Start with a Level 2 or Level 3 Award (knowledge-only). When you secure a school placement, progress to the Level 3 Certificate (or Diploma) to evidence competence.
Do I have to do Level 2 before Level 3?
No. Many adult learners begin at Level 3. Choose Award (no placement) or Certificate/Diploma (with placement) based on your situation.
Do these courses require a placement?
Awards are usually knowledge-only (no placement). Certificates/Diplomas typically require a regular in-school commitment to gather evidence. See Do I Need a Placement?.
Which awarding bodies are recognised?
Schools look for Ofqual-regulated awarding bodies (e.g., NCFE CACHE) and RQF-listed qualifications. Verify on the Ofqual Register.
How long will my course take?
It varies by level and your weekly study time. Awards are quicker; Certificates/Diplomas take longer due to classroom evidence. Your tutor will help you plan a realistic timeline.
Can I study online while looking after children?
Yes — our courses are designed for flexible, self-paced study with tutor and phone support. See Online vs College TA Courses.