Info Event for Teaching Assistants - Career Pathways to STA & QTS

The Department of Education and Plymouth Marjon University are delighted to invite you to the launch of our new Specialist Teaching Assistant (STA) Apprenticeship, starting in September 2026.
This Level 5 apprenticeship has been designed to provide a clear, funded and work-based progression route for those wishing to develop their careers in education while remaining employed in their setting.

We invite you to join us if you would like to know more, or do feel free to share this invitation with anyone who may be interested in this new opportunity.

Who should attend?

• Teaching Assistants (TAs), HLTAs and those working or volunteering in school support roles
• Staff in special schools or alternative provisions
• Individuals seeking a paid, work-based route towards a professional qualification, Foundation Degree or teaching career
• School and Trust leaders interested in developing and retaining staff
• Anyone considering a future career in education

What will the event cover?

Funded routes to qualify as a Specialist Teaching Assistant (Level 5), including the Foundation Degree award, and the three specialist pathways you can follow:

Special Educational Needs & Disability (SEND)

Social & Emotional Wellbeing

Curriculum

Progression routes to a full degree and to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) while continuing in employment

How apprenticeships are funded and what this means for learners and schools

The application process and next steps

There will also be opportunities to speak with Marjon colleagues about your individual circumstances and career progression.

We will introduce the wider student support available, including wellbeing services and support for those with disabilities or specific learning differences such as dyslexia.

Event Details
Date: Wednesday 11th March 2026

Time: 5.30-7 pm (optional campus tour from 4.30 pm)

Format: In-person (with online access via MS Teams available).

Detailed joining information, including the event schedule, refreshments, travel and parking information, and the MS Teams link (if applicable), will be sent to registered attendees on Tuesday, 10th March.

Register your place

To book your place, please complete the MS Form here

If you wish to attend online, please indicate this on the form when prompted.

Find out more from the STA website - https://www.marjon.ac.uk/courses/sta/

or email the Programme Leader, Jayne Garcia, [email protected]

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Host or Publisher Plymouth Marjon University - Education