Skip to main content Sitemap Help Copyright Feedback Accessibility

Training and Development Agency for Schools
Advanced search

HLTA programme

Higher level teaching assistant status was introduced in 2003, following workforce reform to raise standards and tackle workload in the classroom.

The reform led to the introduction of a set of professional standards, which form the basis of the HLTA programme.

The HLTA programme consists of three stages:

  • training and development to meet the standards
  • preparation for assessment against the standards
  • assessment of evidence

This section provides an overview of the HLTA programme for providers of training, preparation and assessment and local authorities.

Downloadable copies of HLTA publications are available in the Resources section.

Information for HLTA candidates and school leaders can be found in the relevant audience sections of the site. Please see right-hand column for links.

If you are interested in providing HLTA training, preparation for assessment or in becoming an assessor please contact your regional provider of assessment (RPA).