Higher Level Teaching Assistant Preparation Course - What it is and why you should apply

1. What is Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) status?

HLTA status was introduced in 2003 to support school workforce reform. An important part of the reforms was the introduction of a set of professional standards that recognise high-level support for teaching and learning. HLTA status is awarded to Teaching Assistants who have been externally assessed against these professional standards and have successfully provided sufficient evidence to meet each standard.

2. How is it of value?

HLTA is a nationally recognised qualification. Support staff who achieve the status of HLTA will be able to offer proven skills to support teachers and learners more effectively and make a valuable contribution to improving standards in schools.

3. Why do you think it’s important as the Programme Leader?

Our preparation course allows you to reflect upon your everyday professional practice as an experienced Teaching Assistant working within education. What I enjoy most about our sessions are the opportunities we create for you to interact and network with other colleagues working in similar roles within a range of educational contexts to share best practice within a supportive (virtual!) environment.

4. What does this preparation course involve?

This preparation course prepares candidates for their external assessment with HLTA against the professional standards, leading to the awarding of HLTA Status. Sessions are delivered online via Microsoft Teams for ease of access during the busy working week.

The course starts on Tuesday 21st January 2025 and comprises six, three-hour sessions between 1pm-4pm.

The sessions are led by our Programme Leader and will have you engaging with independent and group work, as well as self-directed study tasks in preparation for core aspects of the HLTA assessment.

5. How is HLTA assessed?

To be awarded HLTA status, a Teaching Assistant is assessed against the 33 HLTA professional standards and must demonstrate they meet all of them. These standards are set out in three sections:

• Professional Attributes
• Professional Knowledge and Understanding
• Professional Skills

6. What does the assessment process involve?

Candidates must attend a preparation course, complete a series of written assessment tasks, compile an electronic file of supporting documentary evidence and submit this to the assessor by an agreed date prior to the assessment.

7. How does the assessment process work?

All assessments are carried out online over the course of one day by the 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. There is NO classroom observation!

8. What do our students say?

“I was hesitant about this course being online at first, but it couldn’t have been any better. The tutors Tracey and Sarah are brilliant. They are very supportive, friendly and answer any questions promptly. I really enjoyed the group discussions and peer support”.

Rebecca, Higher Level Teaching Assistant

9. How can I find out more?

Make sure to visit our course page for more information and email ahsstudentrecruitment@chester.ac.uk when you’re ready to apply!