Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) Status

How is it delivered?

• The preparation course explains the HLTA Standards and the assessment process, including how to put together the documentary evidence file. Guidance is provided on completing written tasks and the set up of the 2 hour assessment appointment.

• Between preparation sessions, you engage in online activities to check your understanding.

• On the final session, the group returns to review progress and receive formative feedback on tasks written so far. Further guidance and support is provided for the assessment appointment.

• Your assessor will contact you to arrange the assessment appointment. The assessment is typically 4 to 9 weeks after your final session. At least 10 days before the meeting, you email your final written tasks to the assessor and upload your documentary evidence file to a secure place. Assessment is carried out remotely.

Assessment

The status is gained through an assessment of written tasks, an evidence file and interviews. You are not observed in class.

Locations

School networks or alliances with several support staff wishing to complete HLTA should contact us about bespoke training that can be arranged at a local level and delivered within their schools.

The cost of the HLTA preparation programme is £290 + VAT. This does not include the assessment element which is £450 per person. No VAT applies to the assessment fee.

To be accepted onto HLTA, prospective candidates must secure support from their headteacher to:

• Confirm they consider you suitable to undertake HLTA Status
• Confirm you have undertaken whole class teaching with no teacher present on at least 2 occasions
• Confirm they have seen evidence that you hold a Level 2 qualification in English or literacy
• Confirm they have seen evidence that you hold a Level 2 qualification in maths or numeracy

* If you do not hold Level 2 English and maths, or you cannot evidence your certificates, there are alternative options available. See the Requirement guidance section for entry tests and employer exemption.

Only applicants with a completed headteacher declaration form will be accepted and offered a place in a delivery group.

Do I need Level 2 English and maths?

HLTA Standard 11 requires candidates to have achieved a nationally recognised qualification at Level 2 or above in English or literacy and maths or numeracy. You normally upload copies of certificates, or an acceptable awarding body statement of results, with your application.

If I cannot provide evidence for my Level 2 English and/or maths, what are my options?

• Option 1: BPN Level 2 entry tests for HLTA
  If passed successfully, this is treated as equivalent to meeting Standard 11 for HLTA. Please note the entry tests are not full qualifications that can be used as proof for other programmes.

• Option 2: Employer exemption
  Your employer can complete an exemption form confirming they do not require you to provide proof of Level 2 English and or maths. Important note: If you use this option, your HLTA certificate will state that Standard 11 for the relevant subject was not assessed as part of the award of the status.

For full details, use these documents or contact our CPD Admin team on hlta@bestpracticenet.co.uk.

• English and maths Level 2 entry requirement guidance
• HLTA Standard 11 employer exemption form