Level 4 Certificate in Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
The Level 4 Certificate in Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) is a nationally recognized qualification designed for experienced teaching assistants who are ready to take on more responsibility in the classroom. This course prepares learners to work alongside teachers, plan learning activities, support pupils with diverse needs, and even lead classes independently under guidance.
Who is this course for?
This qualification is suitable for:
- Experienced teaching assistants aiming to step into HLTA roles
- Staff already working in support roles seeking career advancement
- Individuals interested in developing leadership skills within the classroom
- Those supporting learners across primary, secondary, or special education settings
Course Content
The certificate covers a range of topics, including:
- Understanding the role of a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant
- Child development and inclusive practice
- Supporting learning activities and assessment
- Behavior management and promoting positive relationships
- Promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion
- Working collaboratively with teachers and other professionals
Key Features
- Level 4 nationally recognized qualification
- Practical, school-based learning and assessments
- Prepares candidates for leading learning activities
- Offers flexibility with online or blended learning formats
- Supports progression into teaching or specialist education roles
Assessment
- Portfolio of evidence
- Observation of practice in a real school setting
- Written assignments and reflections on practice
Entry Requirements
- Typically requires a Level 3 qualification or equivalent experience
- Learners must be working or volunteering in a school environment
- Must have the support of a school or employer to carry out HLTA-level duties
Career Opportunities
This certificate can lead to roles such as:
- Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
- Intervention Support Specialist
- Learning Mentor or Behavior Mentor
- A pathway toward teacher training or education management
Curriculum
- 8 Sections
- 0 Lessons
- 20 Weeks
Expand all sectionsCollapse all sections
- Unit 1 – Understanding the Role of a Higher-Level Teaching AssistantLearning Outcomes: 1. Explain the statutory responsibilities and expectations of HLTAs. 2. Analyse the differences between HLTA and standard TA roles. 3. Demonstrate understanding of safeguarding and professional conduct. Indicative Content: • The HLTA professional standards (UK). • The role in supporting teacher workload. • Confidentiality, GDPR, and safeguarding responsibilities. • Ethics and professionalism in the school environment. • Communication with pupils, staff, and parents.0
- Unit 2 – Child Development and Inclusive PracticeLearning Outcomes: 1. Explain stages of child and adolescent development (0–19 years). 2. Identify barriers to learning and strategies for overcoming them. 3. Promote inclusion for learners with diverse needs. Indicative Content: • Physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development stages. • SEND Code of Practice and inclusive education policies. • Working with pupils with EAL (English as an Additional Language). • Adapting resources for accessibility. • Recognising and supporting mental health needs in learners.0
- Unit 3 – Planning and Leading Learning ActivitiesLearning Outcomes: 1. Plan structured learning activities under teacher guidance. 2. Lead whole-class, small group, or one-to-one sessions. 3. Support curriculum delivery in line with school policy. Indicative Content: • Understanding learning objectives and success criteria. • Lesson planning formats for HLTAs. • Differentiation strategies for mixed-ability groups. • Classroom organisation and resource management. • Using digital tools to support teaching and learning.0
- Unit 4 – Assessment for LearningLearning Outcomes: 1. Use formative and summative assessment methods. 2. Record and track learner progress. 3. Provide constructive feedback to pupils and teachers. Indicative Content: • Assessment methods (observations, questioning, marking). • Recording pupil attainment data. • Giving feedback to support motivation and improvement. • Liaising with teachers on next steps for learners.0
- Unit 5 – Behaviour Management and Positive RelationshipsLearning Outcomes: 1. Implement behaviour management strategies. 2. Promote a safe, respectful, and positive learning environment. 3. Build constructive relationships with pupils. Indicative Content: • School behaviour policies and legal frameworks. • Positive reinforcement and restorative approaches. • Managing conflict and de-escalation techniques. • Building trust with challenging learners. • Encouraging self-regulation and responsibility.0
- Unit 6 – Promoting Equality, Diversity, and InclusionLearning Outcomes: 1. Understand legal duties around equality (Equality Act 2010). 2. Challenge discrimination and promote diversity. 3. Model inclusive attitudes in classroom practice. Indicative Content: • Protected characteristics and anti-discrimination law. • Cultural awareness and bias prevention. • Embedding diversity into lesson content. • Respecting and valuing pupil voice.0
- Unit 7 – Working Collaboratively with Teachers and ProfessionalsLearning Outcomes: 1. Support collaborative planning with teachers. 2. Work effectively with SENCOs, speech therapists, and other specialists. 3. Share and receive feedback to improve practice. Indicative Content: • Roles of multi-agency teams in education. • Effective professional communication skills. • Joint planning meetings and documentation. • Reflective practice for continuous improvement.0
- Assessment SummaryAssessment Type Weighting Evidence Required Portfolio of Evidence 40% Lesson plans, resources, work samples Observation of Practice 30% Assessor’s observation report Written Assignments & Reflections 30% Short essays, reflective journals Progression Routes • Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET) • HLTA to QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) pathways • Specialist roles in SEND support, behaviour mentoring, or subject specialisms0
Lessons:
