PDA in Education Support Assistance 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.

This is a fully online course, however, students must live in Shetland to be considered at our selection events. This is due to the need for a placement observation. 

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.

  • Understanding Professional Practice in an Education Setting  
  • Developing Professional Practice in an Education Setting: Workplace Experience  
  • Supporting the Behaviour of Children and Young People in an Education Setting
  • Development of Children and Young People in an Education Setting
  • Protecting and Promoting the Rights of the Child
  • Supporting Children and Young People who require Additional Support for Learning      
  • Introduction to First Aid or Information and Communication Technology

How will I study my course?

  • Online

Weekly online tutorials on Wednesday evenings (6-9pm) and self-directed study. 

How long will my course last?

1 Year

Weekly online tutorials on Wednesday evenings (6-9pm) and self-directed study. 

August - June 

Where can I study my course?

    Start date

    August

    Fees

    For information on costs for 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 PDA in Education Support Assistance PDA

    I want to start in 2025/26

    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.