Children & Young People's Workforce Course and PTLLS Course

[GettinTrimmer]

I am not sure if this is the right place to post!

Does anyone know if the Children & Young People's Workforce Course would be a useful qualification to have to become a Learning Support Assistant in a 6th form college? Or is it better to do the PTLLS course? I am interested in becoming a Learning Support Assistant or Learning Mentor preferably in a 6th form college.

The 6th form college where I'm volunteering has sent me information about 2 courses: Level 3/4 Award in Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector and the Children & Young People's Workforce Course.

I am confused, rang the college earlier and was told the Children & Young People's course can be taken into a nursery setting and it is not for the older age group. Also I don't want to be a teacher, so I am wondering if it is worthwhile to do the PTLLS course - it is for 12 weeks.

Has anyone any experience of either of these courses?

Thanks!

Hi

Not sure what experience you already have - but it sounds like you may be better with a teaching assistant course- I have googled our local college and there are a few running in the local community- not sure where you live. I don't think you will need the PTLS course if you don't want to be a teacher yet. You may be better doing a course in Mentoring skills which again I did at my local college. I did the PTLS course, before going on to do the Cert ed, which I need because I have my own training company.

I have also done the Children and Worforce Development Council diplomia and some of the units may be useful for you, but not all, depending on your situation. The following site may be worth a look www.cwdcouncil.org.uk/qualifications/recent-qualifications/level3/units

The NVQ in supporting teaching and learning in schools sounds more what you are looking for. s: DA Level 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools qualifications. www.cityandguilds.com. (I am sure there would be other awarding bodies that do similar things.

It may also be worth doing an introduction to counselling course - these usually last about a term and can be a good grounding if you are planing to work with children or young people- your local college usually runs them either or a day time or evening.

Hope this helps, good luck with your future career.
Gemma

Gemma thanks for reply and link.

I was confused as the college had sent me the wrong information. I need to do the Children & Young People Workforce course, apparently the social care pathway. Also a 10 week course called supporting learning and teaching in schools, as you say that one makes more sense!