The reliance which many schools place on LSAs makes training and career development essential. But training opportunities and patterns of employment are patchy, and need to be improved if we are to realise the full potential of their contribution. Some LEAs have, however, developed accredited courses with higher education institutions and Training and Enterprise Councils. The course gives trainees the practical skills and knowledge needed to help children with SEN in mainstream classrooms. It focuses on support strategies for a range of different needs, on encouraging children to become independent and on developing their self-esteem.
Participants spend two half days a week in schools, supervised by a teacher.
During the ten month course, which is accredited through the National Open College Network, participants explore areas of writing and analysing and working with figures. Personal tutors provide feedback and advice, and a study group encourages participants to learn together. It is hoped that participants will use the course as a stepping stone to higher level courses, such as the Open University Specialist Teacher Assistant Certificate. Where LEAs are the employers of LSAs, or hold a register of LSAs on which schools draw, it is easier to offer structured training. The involvement of the LEA also makes possible greater cont inuity in employment, and so increases the extent to which expertise can be built up.