Meet Joshua Barker, Level 3 PE Teaching Assistant 

Hillshott Infant School and Nursery

Joshua began his apprenticeship journey in January 2023, successfully completing his Level 3 PE Teaching Assistant apprenticeship in January 2024.  Throughout his apprenticeship, Joshua has undergone significant personal growth, learning the importance of self-reflection to identify areas for improvement and to recognise his strengths.

“I have grown so much during my apprenticeship, I have learnt how to reflect about my daily practices to know where to improve and what I’m doing well.

During my apprenticeship at Hillshot school, I have created a positive learning environment and have had a lot of positive experiences. Over time I have created additional resources to enhance the learning of pupils.  I was a consistent role model to pupils throughout the school.”

I have developed a wide range of skills, to plan and deliver engaging PE lessons.  I promote health, wellbeing, teamwork and sportsmanship.  I have gained knowledge in assessing and mentoring student’s progress.

Since completing my apprenticeship, I have become a classroom Teaching Assistant in another local school and plan to start university in September in order to begin an undergraduate degree about Applied Education Studies BA (Hons) for three years.  I will do my one year as a student teacher in order to gain QTS as a primary school classroom teacher.

I have really enjoyed my time as an apprentice both at Hillshott Infant School and Nursery as well as my training under training provider, Educational and Sporting Futures.

James French has played a vital role in order for me to successfully complete my apprenticeship.”