What is the course about?
Purpose of this qualification is aimed at professionals working in education or carrying out a caring role in nursery nursing, teaching assistance, childcare or play work, and are looking to develop knowledge and understanding of Special Educational Needs to progress within the sector as part of a new or existing role.
Please note: this course is currently available to adult learners living in Greater London or in other parts of England without devolved adult skills funding, if they earn below the relevant salary threshold. View our Level 3 Distance Learning page for further information on eligibility.
An interview and English initial Assessment is required at the pre-enrolment stage. There are no specific recommended prior learning requirements for this qualification, however, learners may find it helpful if they’ve already achieved a Level 2 qualification in a related subject. You will need to know how to use and have access to a device such as; a computer, laptop or tablet due to the delivery of the course being online.
Learners must achieve 20 credits to achieve this qualification. The mandatory units cover: Development of Children and Young People, Professional Practice in Special Educational Needs, Understand How to Support Children and Young People to Achieve Learning Potential, Understand How to Support Children and Young People with Speech, Language and Communication Needs, Understand How to Support Disabled Children and Young People and those with Specific Requirements.
You will be provided with online learning materials which covers all aspects of your course and you will be required to complete assessments for each of the units within the course and submit these by the deadline dates provided at induction. You will be allocated an assessor at the start of your course, and they will support you to ensure you have a successful outcome. IT skills will be developed throughout your course and basic English skills will be assessed and discussed on an ongoing basis.
The course is free if you meet the eligibility criteria. In order to be eligible for funding, you must be an ordinarily resident in England and be aged 19 or older on 31 August 2026. You will need internet access so that you can respond to email and a digital device that will enable you to type your answers into a web-based platform.
This qualification provides a mechanism for you to recognise and develop your knowledge and understanding and establish personal, learning and employment goals.
This qualification provides a mechanism for you to recognise and develop your knowledge and understanding and establish personal, learning and employment goals. Learners may choose to seek employment in one of many varied occupational areas for example: ? SEN Teaching Assistant ? Teaching Assistant ? Foster Carer ? Children and Families Support Worker ? Learning Mentor With further study learners could become a fully qualified SEN or mainstream teacher, or you may be interested in related careers that would require further study, including: ? Communication Support Worker ? Early Years Tutor ? Higher Level Teaching Assistant ? Portage Home Visitor ? Primary School Teacher.
