Supporting Careers in Education: London South East Colleges’ ‘Preparing to Work in Schools’ programme

London South East Colleges (LSEC) is helping to bridge local skills gaps in education through its ‘Preparing to Work in Schools’ Sector Work Academy Programme (SWAP). This pioneering initiative provides adult learners with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to embark on careers as teaching assistants in schools, particularly in the crucial area of Special Educational Needs (SEN).

Delivered in partnership with London Borough of Bromley and Jobcentre Plus, the SWAP programme is designed to support career changers, returners to work and those looking to develop skills in education. Running for six weeks, the programme combines theoretical learning with practical experiences. It covers essential topics such as educational systems, safeguarding, communication techniques and strategies for supporting children with SEN.

Participants benefit from engaging lectures delivered by SEN professionals, group activities and school visits. This provides first-hand insight into working with children who have additional learning needs, helping learners develop inclusive teaching practices and see what life as a teaching assistant is really like.

The programme has been extremely successful so far, with 26 learners having completed it.

Janice Chanan, a former retail and hospitality worker, enrolled in the course after being recommended by her Jobcentre.

Reflecting on her journey, she said: “The course was well-organised and delivered, offering valuable insights in a clear and engaging manner. The mix of theory and practical tools helped me to see myself as a Learning Support Assistant. The support from my tutor and the interview opportunities provided at the end were invaluable.”

Janice has since secured a role as a teaching assistant at Langley Park School for Boys, where she completed her school visit during the programme.

Similarly, course participant, Emine Gerguri, said: “I learned lots of new concepts and new things about working in an educational

For those considering a career in education, this course offers a pathway into nurseries and schools, providing the foundation needed to make a real difference in children’s lives.

For more information, contact: Dagmara Lubienska at: kickstart@lsec.ac.uk setting, such as the different stages of school life and how to deal with certain situations. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in this course.”

Emine is now progressing onto a Level 3 Teaching Assistant course at LSEC, further strengthening her career prospects.

Other participants from the latest cohort have secured a variety of jobs at nurseries and schools across the region, including: Cleeve Park School, Little Sunshine Day Care, St George’s CE Primary, Monkey Puzzle Nursery and Riverside School.

With a growing demand for skilled teaching assistants and SEN support staff, this programme is playing a vital role in addressing local workforce shortages.