Education Support Assistant PDA

What is special about this course?

The aim of this award is to provide the opportunity to gain a worthwhile, recognised qualification which offers you the knowledge and skills you require to be an effective Education Support Assistant.


Whether you are already employed working with children and young people, or you have always wanted to support children and young people in an educational setting, this award will prepare you for the tasks ahead.

The SSSC (Scottish Social Services Council) confirm that ‘PDA Education Support Assistance’ award meets the qualification requirement for registration as a ‘Support Worker of a Day Care of Children Services.

Entry requirements

National 5 English or equivalent.

You must have employment in an educational setting, or be willing to undertake a work placement.

All applicants will be interviewed.

  • Supporting the Development of Children and Young People from Birth to Eighteen Years
  • Supporting the Behaviour of Children and Young People
  • Supporting Children and Young People in an Education Setting
  • Supporting Children and Young People who require Additional Support for Learning
  • Professional Practice in an Educational Setting
  • Supporting Information Communication Technology (ICT) in an Educational Setting
  • Play in Early Education and Childcare

How will I study my course?

  • Part Time
  • Evening
  • Online

Weekly twilight tutorials and self-directed online learning.

How long will my course last?

2 Year

Part-time. Weekly twilight tutorials during the course of the year, supported by online learning.

Where can I study my course?

    • Lerwick Campus
    • Islesburgh Community Centre (Lerwick)

Start date

September

Fees

For information on costs of this course please contact the campus where you wish to study.

Funding

Your employer may cover the cost of your PDA.

For more information see the funding page. 

What can I do on completion of my course?

Academic: HNC Early Education and Childcare.

Employment/career: Education support assistant roles.

Is there more information available online?

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"I have enjoyed the classes and have found it very informative. Even though I haven’t completed the course yet I have learnt lots that has improved my work. The Lecturer has been great and very supportive in all aspects of the course." Student

Apply for Education Support Assistant PDA

We are no longer accepting applications for 2022/23

I want to start in 2023/24

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI Shetland. UHI Shetland operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.