Portsmouth training providers lead the way in supporting city schools
A call to support Portsmouth's classrooms was answered as a group of training providers and school staff joined forces to encourage people to become a teaching assistant at Central Library on Tuesday 1 November.
Experts from the City of Portsmouth College and The Learning Place discussed the careers people could enjoy in the classroom. Apprenticeships, training courses and volunteering opportunities were part of the conversation in the hopes of inspiring attendees to support children and young people.
The pandemic has meant more people have chosen to leave the sector due to a change in circumstances or taking early retirement. A new generation of support staff are required to help pupils reach their potential. Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education attended the event, sharing her own experiences of working in education. Suzy said:
"When you support children and young people in the classroom, you will be shaping their lives in unique ways. The role is rewarding but challenging. We are looking for the right people who are resilient and have patience to persevere.
"This event was a great way for people to speak directly with teaching assistants who shared their own experiences from the classroom in the hope of inspiring other to join them."
Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education
97 people attended the event across two sessions where short presentations and a question and answer session provided a source of inspiration for those wanting to become a teaching assistant.
Schools in the city require individuals to be qualified up to level 2 in English and maths. If people do not have those qualifications, adult education providers, City of Portsmouth College and The Learning Place can help. Cheryl Head, programme lead for apprenticeships and community learning at Portsmouth City Council said:
"It was fantastic to see so many people engaged in becoming a teaching assistant and wanting to make a real difference to the lives of children and young people in schools across the city.
"If you've had time away from work, looking to change careers or trying to find a role that offers more flexibility, an apprenticeship is a good option that enables you to earn while you learn."
Cheryl Head, programme lead for apprenticeships and community learning at Portsmouth City Council
Those in attendance were able to view learning support vacancies on the jobs board as well as speak to Trafalgar School who promoted specific roles.
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The next information event will take place on Tuesday 28 February at Central Library from 10am. Online registration for the event will open in the new year. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest information about the event.
Callum Murphy