Higher level teaching assistants (HLTAs) work in the school alongside the teacher, providing valuable support for teaching and learning activities. HLTAs work right across the curriculum, acting as a specialist assistant for a specific subject or department or helping to plan lessons and develop support materials.
As a support staff member this section takes you through the process of becoming an HLTA, what's involved in your training and assessment.
What is an HLTA?
Higher level teaching assistants work closely with the teacher, complementing their role and freeing them up to have more time to develop each child to his or her potential. Find out more background about HLTA status and see case studies of HLTAs.
Becoming an HLTA
To achieve HLTA status you will need the support of your school, be able to get funding and undergo assessment that you fulfil the HLTA standards. Find out all you need to know about the process.
Preparing and registering for assessment
Before undergoing assessment you must complete 'preparation for assessment'. If you're at this stage or want to register for your assessment then find out about what you need to do.
The assessment process
Assessment is carried out by an assessor appointed in your government office region by the regional provider of assessment. The assessor will visit your school to discuss with you, your headteacher and a nominated teacher, your evidence of meeting the HLTA standards.
Receiving the outcome and deciding next steps
Your regional provider of assessment must carry out quality assurance procedures before issuing the final outcome as to whether or not you have achieved HLTA status. Whether you achieve HLTA status or not you will want to consider your next steps with your school.
Specialist maths and science HLTAs
By 2008 we are commited to building capacity so that every secondary school that so wishes to be able to recruit an HLTA specialising in mathematics or science. Read about the specialist science and maths HLTA role.
General HLTA queries
E-mail any general queries you have about the programme to: supportstaff@mailbox.tda.gov.uk.
Information for local authorities and providers
Essential information for those involved in the delivery of the HLTA programme.
Information for school leaders
Find out about the HLTA programme and how it will benefit your school.
