Support Staff

Teaching Assistants

In addition to the statutory and mandatory training we offer a wide range of bespoke and nationally recognised qualifications for our support staff:

Developing Positive Behaviours and Practical Tips for De-escalation – For Teachers, TAs and Associate Teachers.  

This three-hour, face-to-face training session is suitable for Teachers and Teaching Assistants. It will give you an understanding of the legal framework around behaviour, the connection between emotions and behaviour and practical strategies to use when challenging behaviour presents. 

Here is what previous candidates have said; 

“Whilst we all strive to do our best for the children in our care, it’s easy to unknowingly let our own emotions cloud our ability to respond in a positive way to some challenging behaviours. This session will help me to be more aware of how I respond in certain situations going forward, and understand better some of the reasons they may occur. A really nice, informative session.” – Teaching Assistant.

“The session was amazing – really engaging and the session was child-focused. I have undertaken previous de-escalation training. However, it was so refreshing to have this from a teaching point of view. There were some great tips for teaching and support staff that I am sure will be invaluable for all of us who were present. Thanks!” – Trust Safeguarding Lead.

Providing Effective Feedback to Improve Pupil Learning – For Teachers, TAs and Associate Teachers

LGBTQ+ Awareness in Primary Schools – For any staff member with a passion for the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion agenda 

This face-to-face training session is suitable for all staff: teachers (including Senior and Middle leaders) and TAs or any member of staff who has a particular passion for EDI work. This training forms part of the Golden Thread Alliance’s commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

The training gives an overview of Statutory and Ofsted Guidance, LGBTQ in the context of wider equality, rationale, culture and attitudes, it will explore the importance of beginning at Primary level, potential LGBTQ prejudice and/or bullying and LGBTQ with the curriculum.

The session will provide the opportunity to meet with colleagues from across our alliance, to share experiences, best practice or to ask questions about an important subject. 

Supporting pre-key stage learners in the curriculum – For Teachers, TAs and Associate Teachers 

Building Reading Fluency – For Teachers, TAs and Associate Teachers

Exploring the role of fluency in bridging the gap between decoding and comprehension. Practical strategies to use with children to develop their reading fluency.

Minibus Training for school staff  

Accredited training provided allowing school staff to drive any of the Trust’s minibuses. This course is provided by Kent County Council and details of the course can be found by using the following link:
https://www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/road-safety/road-safety-training/minibus-driver-training 

 

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning   

Please contact james.kendall@golden-thread.org for further details.  

Following the successful completion of Level 3 Certificate in supporting Teaching & Learning, support staff can enter one of the three routes into teaching. 

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Award in Supporting Individuals with  Learning Disabilities 

Please contact james.kendall@golden-thread.org for further details.

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Award in Supporting Children and Young People’s Speech, Language and Communication  

Please contact james.kendall@golden-thread.org for further details.

HLTA Award – Thames Gateway Teaching School

Please email Michelle Sowden-Mehta at michele.sowden-mehta@golden-thread.org to express your interest.  

Bespoke Training – Midday Lunchtime Supervisors  

In addition to the statutory and mandatory training we offer a wide range of bespoke and nationally recognised qualifications for our support staff.  

Developing Positive Behaviours and practical tips for de-escalation 

This three-hour, face-to-face training session is suitable for Teachers and Teaching Assistants. It will give you an understanding of the legal framework around behaviour, the connection between emotions and behaviour and practical strategies to use when challenging behaviour presents. 

Here is what previous candidates have said:

“Whilst we all strive to do our best for the children in our care, it’s easy to unknowingly let our own emotions cloud our ability to respond in a positive way to some challenging behaviours. This session will help me to be more aware of how I respond in certain situations going forward, and understand better some of the reasons they may occur. A really nice, informative session.” Teaching Assistant

“The session was amazing – really engaging and the session was child-focused. I have undertaken previous de-escalation training. However, it was so refreshing to have this from a teaching point of view. There were some great tips for teaching and support staff that I am sure will be invaluable for all of us who were present. Thanks!” Trust Safeguarding Lead 

LGBTQ+ Awareness in Primary Schools – For any staff member with a passion for the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion agenda 

This face-to-face training session is suitable for all staff: teachers (including Senior and Middle leaders) and TAs or any member of staff who has a particular passion for EDI work. This training forms part of the Golden Thread Alliance’s commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. 

The training gives an overview of Statutory and Ofsted Guidance, LGBTQ in the context of wider equality, rationale, culture and attitudes, it will explore the importance of beginning at primary level, potential LGBTQ prejudice and/or bullying and LGBTQ with the curriculum. 

The session will provide the opportunity to meet with colleagues from across our alliance, to share experiences, best practice or to ask questions about an important subject. 

 

Active play in action – how to ensure lunchtimes are safe, active and meaningful  

Delivered in schools as requested.

In addition to the above, The Golden Thread alliance is committed to developing its staff. If you are interested in training to become a Teaching Assistant then please do contact the CPD lead at your school and enquire as to whether Volunteering roles are available within the school. Once a volunteering role has been established, you can apply to complete the following nationally recognised qualification:

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning   

Please contact james.kendall@golden-thread.org for further details.

Following the successful completion of Level 3 Certificate in supporting Teaching & Learning, support staff can enter one of the three routes into teaching.

 

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Our Vision & Values

Our Vision & Values