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Higher Level Teaching Assistant Course Level 4

Take your career to the next level with this Higher-Level Teaching Assistant Level 4 qualification and gain HLTA status. This programme is designed for existing teaching assistants looking to advance their careers and take on more responsibilities.

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Course Level

4 Higher

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Typical Duration

9 Months

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Training Method

Online Learning Platform

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Assessment Method

Blended Learning, Online and Work-based Sessions

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Cost

£495+VAT

EPA Organisation

TQUK

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Higher Level Teaching Assistant Course Level 4

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

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 is made up of 7 units (5 knowledge and 2 practical) equivalent to 36 credits and 87 guided learning hours.

SEND HLTA Level 4 programme is also available.

HLTA SEND Pathway

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Employer benefits

HLTAs can lead lessons, cover planned teacher absences, and work with groups independently. This reduces the pressure on teachers and offers better cover options without the need for supply staff.

HLTAs bring enhanced skills and knowledge, contributing to higher-quality learning experiences. They support differentiated instruction, working more effectively with pupils who need additional help.

Employing or upskilling TAs into HLTAs is typically more budget-friendly than hiring additional teachers or relying on external supply. You retain staff who already know your pupils, systems, and values.

Investing in professional development shows staff they are valued and supported, which boosts morale and reduces turnover. This promotes a culture of growth and internal progression.

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.

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.

LMP Education offers a Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Programme 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.

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.

Personal and Professional Growth – Build confidence in your skills, especially in lesson delivery, behaviour management, and pupil support.

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 Awareness of Special Educational Needs Child Development and Welfare Developing Skills to Promote Positive Working Relationships Promoting Positive Behaviour in Children & Young People Providing Support for Individual Learners & Small Groups Understanding the HLTA Role.

Topics covered in the course include Child Development and Wellbeing Supporting Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs Promoting Children and Young Peoples Positive Behaviour Working with Individuals and Groups of Learners Positive Working Relationships Curriculum Planning, Monitoring, Delivery and Assessment.