What Is a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)? – Simple UK Guide

So, what is a higher level teaching assistant? It’s someone who plays a key role in supporting learning and helping children reach their best. HLTAs lead small group lessons, guide pupils who need extra help and even cover classes when the teacher is away. They work closely with teachers to plan lessons and make learning fun, calm, and effective.

This role suits anyone who enjoys working with children and wants to make a real difference in schools. You’ll gain strong skills, grow in confidence, and build a rewarding career in education.

In this article, we explore what a higher-level teaching assistant does in UK schools. You’ll learn how HLTAs support teachers, lead small group lessons, and even take charge of classes when needed. We’ll also look at the skills, qualifications and training you need to reach this level, plus what kind of pay and career growth you can expect. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of the HLTA role and why it’s such an important step in education.

What Does “Higher Level Teaching Assistant” Mean?

A Higher Level Teaching Assistant, or HLTA, works in a school to support teachers and pupils. They sit between a Teaching Assistant and a qualified teacher. This means they do more than a TA but do not have all the duties of a teacher.

HLTAs often lead small groups or whole classes when the teacher is away. They use lesson plans made by the teacher and help pupils understand the work. They also check how well pupils are doing and give feedback to the teacher.

Unlike teachers, HLTAs do not plan the full curriculum or mark all the tests. Instead, they focus on helping pupils learn in a calm and friendly way. They make sure every child gets the help they need to do their best.

This role is perfect for someone who enjoys working with children, feels confident in class, and wants to grow in their school career. It’s a trusted position that makes a real difference in pupils’ learning every day.

What Does a Higher Level Teaching Assistant Do Every Day?

A Higher Level Teaching Assistant, or HLTA, has a busy and interesting day. They help teachers, support pupils, and make sure lessons run smoothly. Here are some of the things they do each day:

• Help in class: Support the teacher during lessons and make sure pupils understand their work.
• Work with small groups: Teach or guide small groups who need extra help.
• Take lessons: Lead lessons that the teacher has already planned.
• Support one-to-one: Help pupils who need more attention or have special educational needs.
• Keep good behaviour: Remind pupils of rules and help them stay calm and focused.
• Check progress: Take short notes on how pupils are doing and tell the teacher.
• Get things ready: Prepare lesson materials and tidy up after activities.
• Talk to parents: Share simple updates about a pupil’s day when needed.

Every task helps pupils learn better and feel more confident. That’s why being an HLTA is such a meaningful and rewarding job.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Become an HLTA?

To become a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, you don’t need to be a teacher. But you do need some skills and experience. Most people start as Teaching Assistants and learn on the job before moving up.

Here’s what schools usually ask for:

• Teaching Assistant experience: You should have some experience working as a TA to understand how a classroom works.
• English and maths: You need at least Level 2 in English and maths, or the same level from another course.
• HLTA training: You must finish HLTA training and pass an assessment, like the Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants.
• Safeguarding training: Schools often ask for a certificate to show you know how to keep children safe.
• Good references: You will need strong references from teachers or managers who have seen your work.

If you enjoy helping children learn and want to take the next step in your career, becoming an HLTA is a great choice. With the right training, you can grow your skills and make a real difference in school.

What Skills Make a Great Higher Level Teaching Assistant?

A great Higher Level Teaching Assistant needs strong skills and a caring attitude. These skills help the class run well and make learning fun for everyone.

• Communication and teamwork: Talk clearly and work well with teachers and pupils. This keeps lessons smooth and easy to follow.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Training: Stay calm and use kind, fair rules so pupils feel safe and ready to learn.
• Planning and organisation: Keep lesson plans and materials ready so the class can start on time.
• Assessment awareness: Notice when a pupil is finding something hard and tell the teacher or SENCO.
• SEN understanding and differentiation: Change tasks or use pictures and tools to help pupils with special needs.
• Initiative and reliability: Be ready to help when needed, even at short notice. Always follow school rules and be dependable.

These skills help pupils learn better and make school a happier place for everyone.

What Is the HLTA Professional Standards Framework?

The HLTA Professional Standards Framework sets out what a great Higher Level Teaching Assistant should know and do. It includes 33 standards that show what “good” looks like in the role. These standards cover three main areas: your attitude, your knowledge, and your skills.

In simple terms, the standards help HLTAs understand what is expected in their job. They guide training, assessments, and everyday work in the classroom. For example, they show how to support pupils’ progress, keep children safe, and promote inclusion for everyone.

They also help you manage behaviour in a calm way, plan activities, and work well with teachers and parents. Most importantly, the standards remind every HLTA to stay professional, caring, and focused on helping pupils succeed.

If you’d like to learn more about the different duties and growth paths of teaching support roles, you can read our detailed guide on teaching assistant roles in the UK.

In short, the framework is like a friendly guide. It helps you grow, build confidence, and be your best self in the classroom every day.

How to Become a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (Step-by-Step)

Becoming a Higher Level Teaching Assistant takes time, effort, and a real love for helping children learn. The good news is, you can get there step by step. Here’s a simple path to follow:

• Start with classroom experience: First, get some experience as a Teaching Assistant. You can do this through volunteering or paid work in a school. This helps you understand how lessons work and how to support pupils.
• Get your English and maths qualifications: Next, make sure you have at least Level 2 in English and maths, or an equal qualification. These skills are needed for HLTA training.
• Complete HLTA training and assessment: Then, join an approved HLTA training course, such as the Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants. You’ll learn new skills and show that you can lead learning with confidence.
• Collect your evidence: As you train, gather examples of your work that match the 33 HLTA standards. This could include lesson support, pupil progress, or safeguarding examples.
• Apply for HLTA roles: Finally, apply for HLTA-banded jobs in schools. Keep learning through CPD (continuing professional development) so your skills stay fresh and strong.

Each step brings you closer to a rewarding role where you can guide, support, and inspire pupils every single day.

How Much Does a Higher Level Teaching Assistant Earn in 2025?

When thinking about becoming an HLTA, it’s natural to wonder how much you could earn. The good news is that HLTAs are usually paid more than regular Teaching Assistants because they take on extra duties and responsibilities. In 2025, most Higher Level Teaching Assistants earn between £22,000 and £29,000 a year (full-time equivalent). Many work during term time only, so their actual pay is based on the number of weeks and hours they work.

If you work in or near London, your pay can be higher thanks to London weighting. With more experience, strong skills, and extra training, your salary can rise, too. Overall, while the pay may vary from school to school, the HLTA role offers a fair wage, steady hours, and the joy of helping pupils grow every day — something that money alone can’t match. 

How Is an HLTA Different from a Teacher or TA?

It’s easy to mix up the roles of a Teaching Assistant, a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, and a Teacher — but each has a clear purpose in the classroom. Here’s how they differ:

• Teaching Assistant (TA):
  A TA gives support during lessons. They help pupils with tasks, keep the class calm and follow the teacher’s plan. Their main job is to assist, not to lead.

• Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA):
  An HLTA takes on more responsibility. They can lead small groups or even the whole class when the teacher is away. They use the teacher’s plans and help guide other TAs. This role bridges the gap between a TA and a teacher.

• Teacher:
  A teacher leads the whole learning process. They plan lessons, teach the class, mark work, and report progress. They also have full legal and professional responsibility for pupils’ learning and safety.

In simple terms, a TA supports, an HLTA leads, and a teacher teaches and manages. Each role matters, and together they make the classroom a great place for learning.

What Are the Benefits of Becoming an HLTA?

Becoming a Higher Level Teaching Assistant is a big step forward in your school career. It brings new challenges, but also many rewards that make the journey worth it.

First of all, you earn more. HLTAs are on a higher pay band than regular Teaching Assistants because they take on more responsibility and lead learning.

Next, you make a bigger impact. You get to work more closely with pupils, guide small groups, and even lead whole-class sessions. It’s a great feeling to see pupils grow in confidence because of your support.

You also gain leadership experience. HLTAs often help other assistants, plan learning activities, and support teachers with new ideas. This builds your confidence and prepares you for the next step in your career.

In addition, you have clearer progression routes. Many HLTAs move into specialist or SEN support roles, while others go on to teacher training. Each step gives you new ways to grow and make a difference.

Finally, you gain professional recognition. Becoming an HLTA shows that you are skilled, trusted, and valued in your school community. It’s more than just a title — it’s proof of your hard work and dedication to helping pupils succeed.

How to Find HLTA Courses and Jobs Near You

Looking for HLTA courses or jobs near you? Don’t worry — there are many great places to start your search.

First, check the GOV.UK Teaching Vacancies website. It’s the official place to find school jobs across the country. You can filter by location, job title, or school type to find what suits you best.

Next, visit your local authority or academy trust job boards. Many schools post HLTA roles there before listing them anywhere else. It’s a smart way to spot new opportunities early. If you’re ready to train, look for accredited HLTA training providers. They’ll help you complete your assessment and meet the 33 professional standards.

And here’s a little extra tip — you can also build your skills with flexible CPD (Continuing Professional Development). For example, Training Tale offers an affordable and flexible “Higher Level Teaching Assistant – HLTA Course” you can study alongside your current role. It’s a great way to grow your confidence and prepare for new challenges.

So, take the first step today. With the right training and a bit of determination, your next opportunity as an HLTA could be just around the corner.

Final Thoughts: Is Becoming an HLTA Worth It?

If you truly enjoy classroom life and love helping children grow, becoming an HLTA is a brilliant next step. It gives you more responsibility, more respect, and the chance to make a real difference — all while staying close to the job you love.

You’ll get to lead lessons, support pupils who need extra help, and grow your confidence each day. Over time, your experience can even open doors to specialist or teaching roles.

So, why not take the first step today? You can build your skills and prepare for this exciting role through the Teaching Assistant Course from Open Learning Academy. It’s flexible, easy to follow, and a great way to start your journey toward becoming an HLTA.

FAQs

• What Is a TA’s Salary in the UK?

In the UK, Level 2 Teaching Assistants usually earn £18,000 to £20,000 a year. Those with a Level 3 qualification or SEN skills can make up to £25,000. 

• Why Do Schools Employ HLTAs?

Schools hire Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs) to give pupils extra support and help lessons run smoothly. They work closely with teachers, lead small groups, and make learning clearer for every child.

• Is It Worth Becoming an HLTA?

Yes, becoming an HLTA is worth it. It helps you grow your skills, boost your confidence, and earn a higher salary.

• What Is an HLTA Salary?

An HLTA usually earns between £21,800 and £23,500, depending on experience, hours, and school type.

• Can an HLTA Teach a Class?

Yes, an HLTA can teach a class, usually to cover a teacher’s absence or during PPA time.