From September 2011 food technology will become a compulsory subject at key stage 3. The TDA has secured additional funding to increase the number of individuals working as higher level teaching assistants (HLTAs) whilst specialising in food technology. There will also be the opportunity for those already with HLTA status to acquire additional food technology subject knowledge.
Food technology is aligned with the existing HLTA programme. Individuals work towards achieving HLTA status while completing training in subject knowledge and subject pedagogy (both theory and practice).
The document, Secondary food technology: Subject knowledge guidance for HLTAs, is for prospective and existing HLTAs, local authorities (LAs), training providers and regional providers of assessment (RPAs).
Training
If you are interested in HLTA training for key stage 3 food technology, contact your LA HLTA representative. You can find contact details on your local authority website or on our LA and RPA contacts page.
You do not need experience in food technology to access this training. You can apply even if your job involves only a part-time role in supporting learning in food technology.
If you already have HLTA status, you can access just the subject elements of the food technology training programme. You will not be reassessed and the training you receive will support your ongoing professional development.
Funding
If you work in a state-maintained school (including a specialist school or academy, or a city technology college), the training offered as part of an HLTA food technology programme has no associated training or assessment fees and you should apply to the local authority for funding. If you work in an independent school you should contact your RPA.
Candidate requirements
There are no additional requirements for food technology candidates over and above the generic HLTA programme. You will need a level 2 qualification in literacy and numeracy in order to achieve HLTA status. You do not necessarily need these before starting a food technology training programme, although evidence of these qualifications is needed before you can register for preparation for assessment to gain HLTA status. Check your LA's current criteria for accessing training and preparation for HLTA status, as some require this evidence before funding the training.