Support work in schools (SWiS) qualifications are designed to provide support staff with training relevant to their role in school, tailored to specific development needs. The qualifications are flexible: staff take them when they are ready, and they are assessed in school.
One of the barriers to effective training for support staff has been the lack of relevant, flexible qualifications. SWiS aim to address this by providing qualifications suitable for all support staff, including those who work across several roles.
The vocational qualification in support work in schools is available at two levels.
- level 2: award and certificate
- level 3: award, certificate and diploma
The qualification consists of two mandatory units, which cover working in the school environment and working with children and young people. A series of optional units cover a range of different roles in schools.
Potential candidates can find more information on SWiS on our support staff pages
Headteachers or partners who want to know more on implementing SWiS in their schools can read our guidance for school leaders
