Level 3 STL DIPLOMA?

I'm keen to hear views of those of you who are experienced in the field of TA work.

I have passed the Level 2 Certificate STL in schools. I am currently undertaking the Level 3 STL CERTIFICATE, as I am currently volunteering in school, and covering on a supply basis, having previously held fixed term contracts.

The Level 3 STL DIPLOMA is a relatively new course I believe? My tutor has said the Level 3 certificate is only 3/4 of the diploma, and if we wish, we can at the end of the course, top up to the diploma.

My question is whether there is any benefit in this?

Previously I was a Paediatric ( sick children's) Nurse. I have a BSC(hons) degree in paediatric nursing and an advanced diploma in child development.

As such I have proved my ability to study at these higher levels. I want to continue as a TA and am not using the TA role as a stepping stone to retrain as a teacher and have no desire to in the future either.

Years ago in nursing, there was a view that if you didn't have a degree then you would never make it to the role of Ward Sister. That certainly wasn't the case in practise. Only last September (2012) have they made nursing a graduate entry profession. The majority of the workforce are unlikely to be educated to that level, as that wasn't the route of the traditional training.

My point being, is it beneficial to my career to continue on and complete the extra units of the course to achieve the diploma level, as if I don't have it and another candidate does, will they be looked on more favourably at application/interview stage, or does experience still count at the end of the day? Certainly many older TA's I've worked with have no paper qualifications at all, yet are some of the most efficient people with a wealth of knowledge due to experience.

I'm expecting to be working for another 20-25 years!

Thank you for sharing your opinions

Certainly a level 3 qualification should get you interviews as most t.a. positions ask for at least level 2 or level 3 (if that is the position). Experience does count more (at least my senior management team think so). They would rather have someone who can walk the walk then talk the talk as it were.
Personally as you are happy at level 3 I would only go on if you would like to for your own benefit. With t.a. jobs as long as you have 2 or 3 it is what is in your 'experience' box on the application form.

I have to say that in today's climate of more applicants than jobs the more qualifications you have the better. The STL course has been in effect since Sept 11 and gives prospective employers a candidate that has updated their skills.
As a former TA myself even though I had HLTA status given the choice I would have gained Level 3 STL had I stayed in schools. Think about your CPD. The course structure will change again in 2014 and be updated to meet the needs of schools and support staff as the role develops. A large section as you know of the level 3 is all about safe guarding and theories on development of which I am sure you will blitz.
I would say go for it, add another feather to your cap, get a bigger foot in the door of prospective employers.

Thank you Ladies for your responses. Little Miss Sunshine, you've confirmed what I've suspected, but I love how you've put it for another feather and a bigger foot, it's definitely worth persevering with the additional 11 credits!

Good luck and if we can help..shout..