HLTA three day preparation for assessment

Programme of study

Candidates are encouraged to complete a self review or training needs analysis to determine whether the assessment only route is the best option for them. Please refer to the Training Needs Analysis on The University of Northampton website.

The Preparation for Assessment programme assumes that candidates are already meeting the 33 standards for Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) status and focuses on preparing candidates for the assessment.

Three day preparation for assessment

The three days of preparation for the assessment route focus on familiarising candidates with the HLTA standards in relation to their work and also supporting them in their completion of documentation for assessment. These are then followed by a half-day school visit by an assessor.

Those applying for the three day preparation for assessment route need to demonstrate that they are achieving the standards required as determined by the Teaching Agency (TA). A list of the standards can be found on the TA website

Candidates demonstrate that they are meeting these standards by writing tasks based on their work in school:

With an individual child
With a small group
With a whole class (without a teacher present)
Five other tasks of the candidate's choice

During preparation candidates are supported to:

Interpret the HLTA standards in relation to their own role in school
Clarify the assessment process
Demonstrate that they meet standards, including how to provide evidence
Understand how to approach and complete assessment tasks
Know how to prepare for the assessment visit

Teaching and learning methods

HLTA candidates work in a mutually supportive context in pairs, groups and as a whole cohort. The teaching method is interactive with candidates positively encouraged to ask questions. Candidates participate in a range of learning strategies including discussion, questionnaires, e-learning and school-based activities.

Subsequent opportunities

Teaching assistants accredited with HLTA status are recognised by colleagues as able to work at a higher level with increased responsibility. Working towards this goal can be regarded as a natural progression for able and experienced colleagues within education.

Accreditation for prior learning at The University of Northampton acknowledge HLTA status as being equivalent to 40 CATS points.

For further opportunities please visit the Certificate in Higher Education Supporting Learners (CHESL) page and the Foundation Degree in Learning and Teaching page.

Location

The University of Northampton, Park Campus and other locations across the East Midlands, according to demand.

Entry requirements

Candidates for HLTA must be able to provide original certificates proving level 2 equivalent qualifications in English/literacy and Mathematics/numeracy. For information on acceptable level 2 qualifications go to the TA website. To access funding a candidate's application must be supported by their head teacher.

Duration

Candidates need to attend on three separate days over a period of approximately two school terms.

Application for HLTA

The first step is to complete the Training Needs Analysis form before obtaining the agreement of your head teacher to complete the programme.

You can either contact hlta@northampton.ac.uk for an application pack or download a HLTA application pack from this site. (You must include copies of your Maths/numeracy and English/literacy certificates with your application)

Once your application has been received by the University, you will be contacted, with details of the next steps.