Program Overview

Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) Preparation Course

Course Summary

The Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) Preparation Course is designed for suitably experienced support staff who are already working, or are able to work, at a higher level in their educational setting and are looking to gain professional status. The course prepares candidates for external assessment with HLTA North against the national HLTA standards, leading to the award of HLTA Status.

Course Details

• Level: Short course
• UCAS Code: N/A
• UCAS Points: N/A
• Duration: 3 months
• Location: Online
• UK fees: £420; additional fee applies for assessment, payable to HLTA North.

Course Leader

• Sarah Shaw, Deputy Head of Division

Course Contents

What You'll Study

• Professional Standards: There are key professional standards that those wishing to gain HLTA status must demonstrate to acquire the accreditation. These standards are set out in three sections:
  • Professional Attributes
  • Professional Knowledge and Understanding
  • Professional Skills

How You'll Learn

• Sessions will be taught online via Microsoft Teams, including the use of breakout rooms.
• Independent and group work, self-directed study tasks, tutorials.
• External assessment is conducted by HLTA North assessors.

Entry Requirements

• Qualifications needed:
  • Level 2 qualifications in Maths and English, or equivalent. If you do not hold the necessary qualifications, access tests are available.
  • As part of the application process, candidates must provide original certificates as proof you have gained Level 2 qualifications in English and maths. If a candidate does not have their original certificates, they can apply to the awarding body for replacement certificates or a confirmation of results letter. Awarding bodies normally make a charge for this service.
• Employment requirements:
  • You must be employed full or part time in a school or educational setting, working with children or young people between the ages of three and nineteen.
  • You must work with individuals and small groups and take whole classes (without a teacher present).
  • You must be fully supported by your school when applying for this programme whether you are school or self-funded.

How to Apply

1. Preparation Course: Attend the preparation course via our virtual classroom over six afternoons. All sessions take place from 1pm to 4pm.
2. Assessment: Assessment by Regional Provider of Assessment (HLTA North). This involves the Assessor interviewing you and your colleagues (Headteacher/Representative and another qualified Teacher) to verify the evidence you have submitted within your written tasks and documentary evidence. These interviews take place online. (N.B. there is NO classroom observation)

Fees and Funding

• Home Students: The cost of our preparation course is £420 (payable to the University of Chester).
• Additional Costs: The assessment fee is set by HNAP and is currently £450 (payable to HLTA North).
• Funding: Some candidates are funded, either in full or part, by their employers as part of their commitment to continuing professional development for all staff. Others are self-funded, viewing the HLTA status as an investment which enhances their career prospects.