Higher level teaching assistant status was introduced in 2003, following workforce reform to raise standards and tackle workload in the classroom. Higher level teaching assistant status is awarded to support staff who meet the national HLTA standards.
The HLTA programme consists of three stages:
- training and development to meet the standards
- preparation for assessment against the standards
- assessment of evidence
Funding HLTA assessment
Anyone can apply to be assessed for HLTA status but funding for training and assessment varies according to school setting and individual needs.
Training provision
Training needs vary according to individual candidates but provision has to be made by a combination of schools, local authorities or private training partners.
Providers of preparation
However they are funded all candidates must go through preparation for assessment with a designated provider of preparation.
Assessment
Assessment is conducted in school with a half-day visit from an assessor appointed by the regional provider of assessment.
The HLTA professional standards
The professional standards for higher level teaching assistants (HLTAs) set out exactly what is expected of teaching assistants who are working towards HLTA status.
Maths and science HLTAs
The Government is committed to funding the training and assessment of two strands of HLTAs with specialisms in mathematics and science.
Food technology HLTAs
Food technology becomes a compulsory subject at key stage 3 from September 2011. HLTA status can be undertaken specialising in this area. Alternatively, additional food technology subject knowledge can be acquired for those who already have HLTA status. Find out about the food technology HLTA role.
Resources on the HLTA standards
Resources are available for schools and partners to provide more information on the HLTA professional standards.
Candidates for HLTA status
Find out more on our HLTA pages for support staff.
School leaders
See our HLTA pages for school leaders.
Providers
If you are interested in providing HLTA training, preparation for assessment or in becoming an assessor please contact your regional provider of assessment (RPA).
