Congratulations to our 23 Teaching Assistants at the Primary School who have successfully completed the COBIS Diploma for International Teaching Assistants (DITA) and to our Lead Teaching Assistant, Jennifer, who successfully completed the COBIS Diploma for International Lead Teaching Assistants (DILTA).
In a wonderful, physically distanced, graduation event in the main hall our Teaching Assistants (TAs) received their Diplomas. We are exceptionally proud of the effort and commitment the TA's have shown to complete their courses despite the difficult circumstances they have faced.
The DITA qualification involves completing between 70-92 learning hours and is a combination of eLearning, reading, collecting evidence and writing assignments. Each DITA course contains six units made up of five mandatory units and one optional unit.
The mandatory units are:
- Assessment for Learning
- Safeguarding
- Supporting Children with English as an Additional Language
- Providing Literacy and Numeracy Support
The TA's then choose one optional unit from:
- Supervising Whole Class Learning- Supporting Children with Special Educational Needs
- Support Children to Reach their Potential
The study units encourage reflection, share good practice and complete assignments (marked Pass, Merit or Distinction) relating theory to practice directly relevant to the role of international TAs and our TAs certainly felt it was worthwhile from their comments:
"Throughout this journey I explored new skills and expanded my knowledge. I encourage everyone to take part and to start your journey to reach the stars, Sic Itur Ad Astra. Thank-you." Sandhi, TA Year 4.
"It has truly been a growing experience for me." Flora, TA Year 3.
"I'm impressed I've complete my DITA course. I feel that I have achieved and learnt so much. It has boosted my confidence." Mani, TA Year 1.
Congratulations to all our graduating TA's!
The opportunity to study for the COBIS DITA is part of a wider Teaching Assistant Development Project which seeks to improve the qualifications and skills of our TAs and further enhance learning and teaching within our classrooms.
The Development Project has provided a catalyst for culture change and over the last three years we have strategically designed and embedded new systems, policies and procedures to ensure sustainability for the short and long term impact on staff and students.
You can find out more about the TA development programme in our short video below: