Work experience: becoming an ESOL teaching assistant (level 1)

About this course

Participants undertake a voluntary placement in an Idea Store Learning ESOL class, working alongside experienced tutors during classroom activities. They follow instructions, take on suitable support tasks and use clear, patient English to help learners understand activities and respond to questions. The course also includes spoken and written reflection on the placement, with attention to strengths and areas for development. Participants consider how to describe the skills and experience gained for education support job applications or interviews.

What you'll learn

• Support an ESOL tutor and learners during classroom activities
• Use clear and appropriate English to explain tasks and answer questions
• Reflect on placement experience in spoken and written English
• Describe relevant placement skills and experience for education support applications or interviews

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for learners interested in supporting ESOL classes while developing their own English. Participation involves working alongside tutors and learners in a voluntary classroom placement, completing support tasks and reflecting on the experience. The Beginner (A1) label indicates an introductory level, but the source does not specify previous experience requirements.

• Includes a voluntary placement in an ESOL classroom
• Involves working alongside tutors and supporting learners
• Combines classroom participation with spoken and written reflection