TCA 140 Explain the Foundations of the Teaching Assistant Role (3-0-4)

This course introduces the role and responsibilities of a Teaching Assistant within UAE educational settings, focusing on the practical and professional skills needed to support teaching and learning effectively in the classroom. It prepares learners for guided classroom practice by developing core competencies in communication, collaboration, ethical conduct, and classroom support under teacher supervision and guidance. The course nurtures a reflective and culturally responsive approach, building the professionalism and readiness needed to work confidently in authentic school environments.

TCA 141 Describe Child Development and Learning (3-0-4)

This course introduces the principles of child development and learning, focusing on children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth from early childhood through the primary years. Students explore developmental theories and factors such as culture, environment, and individual differences that influence learning. Through practical applications, simulated observations, and classroom scenarios, students develop skills to support children’s development and apply developmentally appropriate strategies.

TCA 142 Explain Safeguarding and Health and Safety Principles in Learning Environments (3-0-4)

This course combines theoretical knowledge and applied learning to develop students’ understanding of safeguarding, health and safety, and basic nutrition practices in learning environments. Through simulations, role-play, and practical activities, students will learn to identify risks, promote wellbeing, follow safe classroom procedures, and respond appropriately to common health and safety situations in educational settings.

TCA 143 Explain Special Educational Needs and Inclusive Practices (3-0-4)

This course combines theoretical knowledge and simulated practice to develop students’ understanding of special educational needs, disabilities, and inclusive education practices. Students will explore the role of the teaching assistant in supporting diverse learners under teacher guidance, including accommodations, modifications, and Individual Education Plans (IEPs). Through simulations and practical activities, students will apply inclusive support strategies that promote participation, learning, and independence in educational settings.

TCA 144 Describe Assessment and Observation in Educational Settings (3-0-4)

This course explores how assessment and observation support young children’s learning in early childhood settings. It highlights the teaching assistant’s role as an intentional observer and gives students opportunities to practise noticing children’s interests, strengths, and emerging needs. Students develop skills in interpreting observation records, analysing learning patterns, and using assessment evidence to plan appropriate experiences. They also learn to reflect on their practice, document learning effectively, and communicate insights that support each child’s development.

TCA 145 Explain Curriculum Frameworks in Learning Contexts (3-1-4)

By the end of this course, students will be able define curriculum and curriculum frameworks and identify the intention behind these written documents. They’ll explain the connection between curriculum and scope and sequence documents and how they guide teaching and learning. They will explain how lesson objectives are linked to outcomes and explain the considerations educators make when determining appropriate activities to support learning. Finally, they’ll discuss their specific roles in supporting curriculum delivery and will demonstrate these skills in simulated classroom scenarios.

TCA 240 Apply Inclusive Practices to Support Diverse Learners (1-3-4)

This course prepares teaching assistants to support inclusive classroom environments that meet the needs of diverse learners, including Students of Determination. Students explore the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion and examine the teaching assistant's role in supporting learner participation and access to learning. Under teacher guidance, teaching assistants develop awareness of IEPs and related support plans, support teacher-directed strategies, apply inclusive practices, promote learner independence, and use appropriate technologies to support inclusive classroom practices.

TCA 244 Collaborate with Families and Educational Stakeholders (1-3-4)

This course explores the role of the teaching assistant in communicating and collaborating with families and educational stakeholders. Students examine professional boundaries, confidentiality, and culturally responsive communication within the UAE educational context. Through activities, case studies, role-play, discussions, and work placement tasks, students develop and apply communication skills, participate in family engagement activities, and support interactions with families and external stakeholders under teacher guidance while maintaining professional conduct.

TCA 270 Observe and Document Learning in Classroom Practice (1-3-4)

This course develops learners' ability to observe, document, and communicate learning within classroom settings. Through work placement experiences, learners apply observation methods and documentation practices to support teaching and learning. The course emphasizes professional communication, ethical responsibilities, and reflective practice while working alongside teachers in early childhood and primary education environments. Learners use observation findings to contribute to assessment processes and support educational decision-making.

TCA 271 Reflect on Professional Practice as a Teaching Assistant (1-3-4)

This course examines the role of teaching assistants during extended work placement. Students develop increasing independence in supporting lesson activities, classroom routines, and learner engagement under teacher guidance. The course explores inclusive practices, professional collaboration with teachers and school staff, and practical classroom support skills. Through workplace experiences and structured reflection, students evaluate their practice, identify areas for improvement, and support their ongoing professional development.