Posted by: CTC Training
The highest level you can reach as a teaching assistant is known as the Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) – once you have the right qualifications for this role, you’ll be able to cover teacher absences and even take classes on your own.
If you’re looking to progress as a teaching assistant, it’s important that you understand the different levels, what qualifications you’ll need to reach each stage and what extra responsibilities you’ll acquire as you go forward in your career.
Let’s examine each level briefly before exploring the Higher Level Teaching Assistant in more detail
Level 2 Teaching Assistant
A Level 2 Teaching Assistant is the starting point on your journey. Responsibilities in this position include helping with planning lessons and providing feedback on students to teachers.
Our Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools is a great introduction to the skills and knowledge you’ll need to be an effective Level 2 Teaching Assistant.
Level 3 Teaching Assistant
Qualifying as a Level 3 Teaching Assistant offers the best route into a successful career, as potential employers are likely to appreciate the more in-depth understanding and experience you’ll acquire.
As a Level 3 Teaching Assistant, you’ll help teachers plan activities, prepare the classroom for a lesson, interact more closely with the children and provide far more comprehensive support to teachers.
Explore our Level 3 Award in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools if you’d like to find out more about being a Level 3 Teaching Assistant.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
What qualifications are needed?
To become a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, you’ll need to be already working full time as a Level 3 Teaching Assistant. More importantly, you’ll need a Level 4 Certificate in Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) qualification to demonstrate your ability to carry out all the extra responsibilities and challenges you’ll be facing.
What does the job entail?
Alongside all the responsibilities of level 2 and 3 teaching assistants, you’ll be able to start working more independently by taking classes for teachers when they’re absent and even planning and teaching your own lessons.
How much can I earn as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant?
At the time of writing, the salary for a Higher Level Teaching Assistant is between £22,500 and £29,000, depending on your experience and where you’re working. Bear in mind, however, that it is a part-time role, so your actual salary is likely to be closer to £14,000 a year.
Here at CTC Training, we give you the chance to get your Level 4 Certificate in Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) qualification from home, although it will also involve you being observed in a real classroom setting. Our online courses make learning easier because you can complete them at a pace that suits you and fit them around your existing commitments. And with flexible payment options, we also make boosting your career more affordable, too.
Ready to take the plunge and aim for the highest level you can as a teaching assistant? Sign up now and start your course immediately or get in touch with us for more information and advice.
About CTC Training
CTC Training provides professional development and education courses for businesses and individual learners. They are market leaders in online learning. CTC Training's wide range of courses offer valuable qualifications in areas such as education, assessment and vocational training.
