Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties - Level 2 Summary Where can this subject lead? Key information What will I learn? How will I learn? How will I be assessed? Summary Are you looking to support children and young people with learning differences in an educational setting? This course is ideal for aspiring teaching assistants and school support staff who want to better understand specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and ADHD. It provides the foundational knowledge needed to create inclusive, supportive learning environments where all students can thrive. The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties explores how these conditions are identified, the impact they can have on learning and behaviour, and how to provide effective support. You’ll gain insight into the challenges individuals face, the importance of early diagnosis, and strategies to help learners overcome barriers. This qualification can be studied independently but also complements other courses in the Teaching Assistant Pathway and is a valuable step toward working confidently with learners who require additional support in mainstream education. Next course dates Start date Location Duration 01 Oct 2025 Bispham Campus 11 Weeks Apply now 08 Jan 2026 Bispham Campus 11 Weeks Apply now 23 Mar 2026 Bispham Campus 11 Weeks Apply now 01 Oct 2026 Bispham Campus 11 Weeks Apply now 08 Jan 2027 Bispham Campus 11 Weeks Apply now 23 Mar 2027 Bispham Campus 11 Weeks Apply now Pathways in Health, Education and Childcare Advance your career in education or healthcare with professional development courses in pastoral and social care, ideal for gaining promotion or landing your first role. View Similar Pathways Where can this subject lead? Career progressionThe NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties is ideal for those looking to support learners with additional needs in mainstream education. It provides essential knowledge for aspiring teaching assistants, learning support staff, or those already working in schools who want to better understand and respond to conditions such as dyslexia, ADHD, and dyspraxia. This course forms part of the structured Teaching Assistant Pathway, SEND Pathway or Special Support Assistant Pathway which supports progression into more advanced roles and qualifications within the education sector. Teaching Assistant Pathway: NCFE Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in SchoolsNCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Behaviour That ChallengesNCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning DifficultiesNCFE Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges SEND PathwayNCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding AutismNCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental HealthNCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties Special Support Assistant Pathway NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Well-beingNCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning DifficultiesNCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding AutismNCFE Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges Completing this course can lead to specialised roles such as SEN support assistant or learning support practitioner, and provides a strong foundation for further study, including the NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning. Next steps at B&FCHaving successfully completed the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties, students can progress to advanced qualifications and leadership roles, including: NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and LearningLevel 4 Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Leadership and ManagementLevel 5 Diploma in Teaching Further Education and Skills These next steps support career development in both mainstream and specialist education settings, helping you move into more senior or specialised roles. Employment OpportunitiesOn completing the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties, learners can explore a variety of entry-level roles in educational and support settings. These positions allow you to apply your knowledge of learning differences and inclusive support strategies in real-world environments: Teaching Assistant | Learning Support Assistant | Special Educational Needs (SEN) Assistant | Classroom Support Assistant | Inclusion Support Worker | Pastoral Support Assistant | After-School Club or Playgroup Assistant These roles are commonly found in primary and secondary schools, colleges, and youth services. They provide a strong foundation for gaining hands-on experience while continuing to build your qualifications and career in education, particularly in supporting learners with additional needs. Key information Entry RequirementsTechnical Entry Requirements: Age: 19 years or over (19+) Additional Non-Qualification-Based Entry Requirements: DBS Check: While a DBS check is not required for enrolment on the course. However, it is essential for those seeking employment working with children and young people. This check is typically arranged through your employer or placement provider. English and Maths: A basic level of proficiency in English and Maths is recommended to support your learning and understanding of the course content. These entry requirements ensure that students are adequately prepared for the course and any subsequent employment opportunities in settings involving children and young people. Qualification obtainedCertificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties Fees and fundingWhilst many adult courses are fully funded for 19+ learners, funding can depend both on the course itself and/or the learner's personal circumstances, including their current income levels and previous qualifications. To find out if you might be eligible for full or partial funding or for an Advanced Learner Loan (Level 3 qualifications only), please visit our Financial Support section. You will also find more information here about additional financial support you might be entitled to such as help to cover childcare and equipment costs. Extra costs and equipmentThere are no additional costs associated with this course. Regulation and AccreditationAccrediting Institution: N/AAwarding Body: NCFE Terms and conditionsRead our full terms and conditions for more information. What will I learn? What will I learn?This qualification is designed to help you develop a deeper understanding of specific learning difficulties and how they affect individuals in educational settings. You’ll explore a range of conditions, including dyslexia, ADHD, and dyspraxia, and learn how to provide effective, inclusive support. Understand the Effects of Specific Learning Difficulties Examine how specific learning difficulties impact learning, behaviour, and daily life. You’ll explore the challenges individuals may face and how these can vary depending on the condition and context. Understand the Diagnosis of Specific Learning Difficulties Learn about the processes involved in identifying and diagnosing specific learning difficulties. This includes the roles of professionals, the importance of early intervention, and the impact of diagnosis on individuals and families. Understand Supporting Individuals with Specific Learning Difficulties Discover practical strategies for supporting learners with specific needs. This unit focuses on adapting learning environments, using appropriate resources, and promoting independence and confidence. Understand the Context of Specific Learning Difficulties Explore the wider social, emotional, and educational context of specific learning difficulties. You’ll consider how attitudes, policies, and support systems influence the experiences of individuals with learning differences. Essential skills: English and Mathsna Industry placement, field trips and guest speakersThere is no mandatory work placement required for this course, making it accessible to learners who may not currently be working or volunteering in an educational setting. However, gaining voluntary or part-time experience in a school or similar environment can significantly enhance your understanding of the course content and improve your employability. At Blackpool and The Fylde College, we enrich your learning experience through a range of guest speakers and employer engagement events. These sessions feature professionals from across the education sector, including representatives from local schools and support services. Guest lectures and live discussions offer valuable insights into real-world classroom practice, current challenges in education, and emerging trends. They also provide opportunities to ask questions, build professional connections, and explore the diverse career paths available within the education sector. How will I learn? Our courses are delivered through a blended learning approach, combining the flexibility of digital resources with the benefits of face-to-face teaching. While some elements of the course may be accessed online, this is not an online-only course you will be required to attend in-person sessions at scheduled times throughout the programme. Teaching takes place in hybrid classrooms, allowing for interactive, tutor-led sessions that support both classroom-based and remote participation when appropriate. The programme primarily focuses on developing your theoretical knowledge, supported by practical, hands-on activities that help you apply what you’ve learned to real-world care scenarios. This flexible yet structured approach ensures that you receive the guidance, peer interaction, and practical experience needed to succeed in the health and social care sector. Expert tutorsAll tutors involved in the delivery of adult courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.Our recruitment process ensures that tutors delivering a given programme are suitably qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice. The aim of this is to enrich our students’ learning experience and enable them them to get the inside track on what working in the industry is really like. How will I be assessed? How will I be assessed?Students will be assessed through a combination of methods designed to evaluate their understanding and practical application of the course material. The assessment process is structured to ensure that students can demonstrate their knowledge and skills effectively. Assessment Methods: Portfolio of Evidence: Throughout the course, students will compile a portfolio of evidence that showcases their learning and achievements. This portfolio will include various forms of assessment such as written assignments, case studies, and practical tasks.Written Assignments: These assignments will test students' understanding of theoretical concepts and their ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios.Case Studies: Students will analyse specific situations, demonstrating their problem-solving skills and ability to provide appropriate support. Grading: The course is assessed on a pass or fail basis. Students must meet all the assessment criteria for each unit to achieve a pass.The portfolio of evidence is a crucial component of the assessment process, as it provides comprehensive proof of the student's competence and understanding.