Higher Level Teaching Assistant Course SEND Pathway - LMP
Download Programme Brochure
Female teaching assistant working with school pupil
Pink circle with the number 4 in the middle
Course Level

4 Higher

pink circle with a stopwatch in the middle
Typical Duration

9 Months

Pink circle with a house and building in the middle with arrows go from one to the other
Training Method

Online Learning Platform

Pink circle with a folder with documents coming out of it in the middle
Assessment Method

Blended Learning, Online and Work-based Sessions

A pink circle with a stack of coins and one coin facing us with a pound sign in the middle
Cost

£595+VAT

Pink circle with the TQUK logo inside
EPA Organisation

TQUK

Female teacher helping a high school student with work

Higher Level Teaching Assistant SEND Pathway Course Level 4

Progress your career within teaching and develop your SEND knowledge and skills by becoming a SEND Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HTLA). The content of this programme is designed to extend your knowledge, understanding and skills allowing you to support SEND pupils within the classroom setting or 1-2-1.  

 

This nationally recognised professional qualification reflects advanced TA capability in supporting teaching and learning.

 

To start this programme you must be an existing teaching assistant and be able to support individual, small group and a whole class without supervision. 

 

This qualification has a SEND pathway and is made up of 7 units (5 knowledge and 2 practical) equivalent to 36 credits and 87 guided learning hours. 

A photo of high school classmates

Employer benefits

Personalised Support for Pupils with SEND – SEND HLTAs can provide tailored interventions that meet the individual needs of students with EHCPs or additional learning needs. 

 

Consistent, High-Quality Support in the Classroom – Offers a stable and skilled presence for pupils with SEND, leading to better behavioural outcomes and stronger learning relationships. 

 

Cost-Effective Resource Allocation – More economical than hiring additional teachers or external specialists. Supports effective deployment of resources, allowing teachers to focus on whole-class teaching while the HLTA provides targeted support.

 

Enhanced Collaboration with SENCOs and Families – SEND HLTAs can act as a bridge between classroom practice and wider SEND support structures. 

To support teaching and learning by working alongside teachers or independently, using advanced skills to plan, deliver, and evaluate learning activities. HLTAs play a key role in raising standards by supporting pupils’ academic, social, and emotional development with a focus on SEND pupils.  

 

Typical job roles 

Higher Level Teaching Assistant, SEN Higher Level Teaching Assistant, Specialist Support Assistant and Support for Specialist Curriculum Areas. 

After completion of this HLTA qualification you will be qualified to teach classes on your own, cover planned absences and allow teachers time to plan and mark. Further progression routes include initial teacher training to qualified teacher status or other SEND specialist routes. 

 

LMP Education offers a Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Course that is a great progression route for those who want to specialise in a specific area. Explore our Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant course. 

  • Working within a school as a teaching assistant (required) 
  • Completion of Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification or demonstration of foundational understanding via skill scan completion (Recommended)  

If you have vast experience as a TA, but hold no qualifications, then you may be accepted based on experience (Minimum 5 years’ experience). Letter of confirmation from your school will be required. 

Make a Real Difference in Pupils’ Lives – Directly support children and young people with a wide range of needs, helping them access learning and reach their full potential. 

 

Deepen Your Expertise in SEND – Gain in-depth understanding of neurodiversity, learning difficulties, behavioural needs, communication challenges, and more. 

 

Career Advancement – Gain recognition as a skilled, senior member of the support staff. Provides a stepping stone to teacher training or other education careers.

 

Nationally Recognised Status: upon completion of this programme, you will receive a nationally recognised certification. Achieving HLTA status is a formal recognition of your expertise and dedication. 

 

Increased Earning Potential – HLTA status often comes with a pay rise or movement to a higher pay scale. 

 

Deeper Understanding of Education Gain a more in-depth knowledge of the national curriculum, pupil development, and educational strategies. 

 

Teaching Assistant Development Programme: access a suite of Anspear CPD courses designed to support TAs with additional skills and knowledge 

On this programme you will develop a wide range of skills and knowledge. You will study 7 mandatory units which will lead to gaining Level 4 Certificate in Higher Level Teaching Assistant RQF (60314321). 

 

Units covered include SEND Systems, SEND Developmental Milestones and Strategies, Curriculum and SEND and Innovative Assessment. 

 

Topics covered in the course include Understanding Dyslexia, Understanding Autism, Understanding ADHD, Attachment and Learning Needs 

To support teaching and learning by working alongside teachers or independently, using advanced skills to plan, deliver, and evaluate learning activities. HLTAs play a key role in raising standards by supporting pupils’ academic, social, and emotional development with a focus on SEND pupils.  

 

Typical job roles 

Higher Level Teaching Assistant, SEN Higher Level Teaching Assistant, Specialist Support Assistant and Support for Specialist Curriculum Areas. 

After completion of this HLTA qualification you will be qualified to teach classes on your own, cover planned absences and allow teachers time to plan and mark. Further progression routes include initial teacher training to qualified teacher status or other SEND specialist routes. 

 

LMP Education offers a Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Course that is a great progression route for those who want to specialise in a specific area. Explore our Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant course. 

  • Working within a school as a teaching assistant (required) 
  • Completion of Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification or demonstration of foundational understanding via skill scan completion (Recommended)  

If you have vast experience as a TA, but hold no qualifications, then you may be accepted based on experience (Minimum 5 years’ experience). Letter of confirmation from your school will be required. 

Make a Real Difference in Pupils’ Lives – Directly support children and young people with a wide range of needs, helping them access learning and reach their full potential. 

 

Deepen Your Expertise in SEND – Gain in-depth understanding of neurodiversity, learning difficulties, behavioural needs, communication challenges, and more. 

 

Career Advancement – Gain recognition as a skilled, senior member of the support staff. Provides a stepping stone to teacher training or other education careers.

 

Nationally Recognised Status: upon completion of this programme, you will receive a nationally recognised certification. Achieving HLTA status is a formal recognition of your expertise and dedication. 

 

Increased Earning Potential – HLTA status often comes with a pay rise or movement to a higher pay scale. 

 

Deeper Understanding of Education Gain a more in-depth knowledge of the national curriculum, pupil development, and educational strategies. 

 

Teaching Assistant Development Programme: access a suite of Anspear CPD courses designed to support TAs with additional skills and knowledge 

On this programme you will develop a wide range of skills and knowledge. You will study 7 mandatory units which will lead to gaining Level 4 Certificate in Higher Level Teaching Assistant RQF (60314321). 

 

Units covered include SEND Systems, SEND Developmental Milestones and Strategies, Curriculum and SEND and Innovative Assessment. 

 

Topics covered in the course include Understanding Dyslexia, Understanding Autism, Understanding ADHD, Attachment and Learning Needs 

Our learners say

"LMP were very proactive in finding me an apprenticeship role. I got an email and phone call to invite me to an interview for Bedlington Academy. LMP made the process so easy which allowed me to get my job. I had messages and support given before the interview to help me achieve the best outcome."

- Elissa, Teaching Assistant Apprentice, Bedlington Academy

Primary school children running into UK school
Person working through a course on special needs on a laptop

What to expect from LMP Education

  • Dedicated account management and recruitment 
  • Leading nationwide Course training provider 
  • Specialists in the education, training and business sectors 
  • Delivering vibrant, engaging learning for all learners 
  • Blended and remote teaching and learning 
  • Tailored learning plans for each individual 
  • Experienced tutors and delivery support team 
  • Designated safeguarding officers, policies and procedures 

Interested in becoming a SEND Higher-Level Teaching Assistant?

Expand your skills with a Level 4 qualification by registering your interest below.

Rate My Apprenticeship Badge Winner
Rate My Apprenticeship Award Badge
Rate My Apprenticeship Award Badge
aelp logo. Text below reads "proud to be an AELP Member".
Education Investor Awards 2024
Cyber Essentials certified