Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning: Your Path to a Senior Teaching Assistant Role
- The Big Teacher
- Mar 14
- 2 min read
What Is the Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning?
The Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning is the most advanced teaching assistant qualification before moving into teacher training. It is designed for those who want to develop their skills further and take on senior responsibilities in a school setting.
Unlike the Level 3 Award and Certificate, the Diploma is a full qualification that can help you progress into a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) role or even open doors to further study.

Who Is This Course For?
✔️ Aspiring and experienced Teaching Assistants looking to boost their skills
✔️ Current TAs and LSAs who want to take on more responsibility
✔️ Career changers wanting to transition into education
✔️ Those interested in becoming a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
The Diploma is a work-based qualification, so you must have a school placement or already be working in a school to complete it.
What Will You Learn?
This course builds on the Level 3 Certificate and provides in-depth knowledge and advanced skills in:
📌 Supporting children’s learning and development
📌 Safeguarding, welfare, and child protection
📌 Supporting learners with special educational needs (SEN)
📌 Encouraging positive behaviour in students
📌 Helping with lesson planning and delivery
📌 Working with parents, teachers, and other professionals
The Level 3 Diploma covers everything you need to progress in a school-based support role, making it ideal for those aiming for senior TA or HLTA positions.
What Jobs Can You Get with a Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning?
This qualification can lead to:
🎓 Senior Teaching Assistant
🎓 Learning Support Assistant (LSA)
🎓 Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant
🎓 Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – with additional HLTA training
🎓 Pathway to teacher training (e.g., Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training – DET)
If you want to become an HLTA or eventually train as a teacher, this is the best TA qualification to take.
Level 3 Diploma vs. Level 3 Certificate vs. Level 3 Award: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing the right course depends on your career goals and experience.
Feature | Level 3 Award | Level 3 Certificate | Level 3 Diploma |
Work Placement Required? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Course Duration | Shorter | Medium | Longest |
Career Level | Beginner | Experienced TA | Senior TA / HLTA |
Leads to HLTA? | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
If you want to advance your career in education and take on more responsibility, the Level 3 Diploma is the best choice.
How to Enrol in the Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning
At The Big Teacher, we provide:
✅ Flexible online learning – study at your own pace
✅ Expert tutor support – get guidance throughout the course
✅ Recognised qualification – improve your career prospects
Ready to take the next step in your education career?Click here to enroll in the Level 3 Diploma now.