A Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) works in schools to support teachers and help pupils learn. HLTAs carry out many of the tasks that regular teaching assistants do, such as working with small groups of children or supporting children with additional needs. However, HLTAs have extra responsibilities, such as planning and delivering lessons, covering classes in the absence of a teacher, and assessing students' progress. To become an HLTA, you typically need experience as a teaching assistant and to complete HLTA status training. The role is vital in ensuring pupils get the support they need while allowing teachers to focus on planning and leading lessons. HLTAs work in primary, secondary, and special schools, making it a varied and rewarding career for those interested in education and supporting young people.
The average salary for a Higher Level Teaching Assistant in the UK ranges from £21,000 to £27,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There are over 30,000 HLTA positions in schools across the UK, with demand expected to increase as schools seek additional classroom support.
HLTAs usually work around 32.5 hours per week during term time, which often means having school holidays off.
Supports teachers and pupils in classrooms, working specifically with children who have special educational needs or disabilities.
Works with small groups or individual pupils to help improve their reading and writing skills, often focusing on those who need extra support.
Provides guidance and support to pupils in schools, helping with their emotional wellbeing and social development alongside academic learning.
Start by working as a Teaching Assistant to gain essential experience in the classroom.
Most HLTAs begin their careers as Teaching Assistants. This role will help you understand classroom dynamics, pupil needs, and the day-to-day responsibilities of supporting a teacher. You can find TA roles in primary, secondary, or special schools. Many schools value previous experience, so volunteering or working as a general classroom assistant is an excellent way to start.
Focus on building strong communication and organisational skills, and learn to work effectively with children and teachers.
As a TA, you will develop skills such as patience, empathy, adaptability, and the ability to manage behaviour. You will also learn how to provide feedback to teachers and support pupils with additional needs. Take every opportunity to work with different age groups and abilities, as this will broaden your experience.
Ensure you have the required qualifications, usually GCSEs in English and Maths at grade 4 or above, or equivalent.
Most HLTA training providers will expect you to have a good standard of literacy and numeracy. If you do not already hold these qualifications, you may need to complete a short course or functional skills qualification before applying.
Enrol on a recognised HLTA preparation course, usually provided by local authorities or higher education institutions.
The HLTA preparation course will help you understand the professional standards required, develop your skills further, and prepare you for assessment. The course often includes portfolio building and observed practice in your workplace. Speak to your school or local authority about recommended providers and funding options.
Complete the HLTA assessment process, which typically involves submitting a portfolio and being observed in the classroom.
The HLTA assessment checks that you meet the national HLTA standards. You will need to demonstrate your ability to plan and deliver learning activities, assess pupil progress, and work independently. Assessors will review your portfolio and observe you working with pupils in your school.
Search for HLTA positions in schools, academies, and local authority job boards.
Many schools advertise HLTA roles on their websites, local authority portals, or national education job boards. Tailor your CV to highlight your classroom experience, HLTA status, and any specialist skills, such as supporting pupils with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) or delivering specific interventions.
Get ready for application processes and interviews by practising answers and preparing examples of your classroom work.
HLTA interviews often include questions about your experience, skills, and scenarios you might face in the classroom. Be ready to discuss how you handle behaviour, support learning, and work as part of a team. You may also be asked to carry out a short teaching task or group activity as part of the process.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA). Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
A Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) typically has advanced skills and qualifications that enable them to take on more responsibility within the classroom, similar to a standard teaching assistant but with greater autonomy. Both roles support teachers and help deliver educational activities, making 'Teaching assistant' the most closely aligned career in terms of qualifications and duties.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a college course to gain some of the skills and knowledge you need to do this job.
Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could apply to do a Teaching Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
This takes up to 2 years to complete and is a mix of on-the-job training and learning with a training provider.
You'll usually need:
Volunteering is an excellent way to get experience of working with children and young people. This can also help when looking for jobs.
You can get experience by volunteering in a local school or with a community organisation.
You can apply directly for jobs through schools, local authorities and academy trusts. Each school sets its own entry requirements, though you'll usually need GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in English and maths.
You'll also need to show that you can work well with children, teachers and parents. Volunteering, or a qualification in nursery work, childcare, playwork or youth work, may give you an advantage when applying for jobs.
Teaching assistants may specialise in the kind of extra support they give, for example with:
Teaching assistants are employed term-time only. A working week can vary from a few hours up to full time.
Advertised pay rates are often listed as full-time equivalent (FTE). Actual pay will depend on the number of hours worked.
You can find more on working as a teaching assistant from Skills for Schools.
You can also search for jobs using the Teaching Vacancies service.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
