Gaining HLTA status – Step by Step
Funding for the development and assessment of HLTA status comes from the TDA to local authorities. There is an established process to allocate the funding to ensure that teaching assistants who are ready to work towards assessment get the funding that they need.
The step-by-step process
1. Look at the standards and review skills
2. Check whether you have a level 2 qualification in English and Mathematics
3. Discuss with line manager
4. Contact Local Authority to get advice on routes and funding
5. Complete application form
6. Attend preparation course and/or training
7. Build a small portfolio of evidence
8. Complete and submit assessment tasks
9. Assessment visit
10. HLTA status awarded to any candidates meeting the HLTA standards
The 
step by step document provides an outline of the process leading to HLTA status. It is a pictorial view showing the different steps and is suitable for sharing with a range of staff.
Professional Standards for HLTA Status
In order for candidates to gain HLTA status, they must show that they meet the HLTA standards.
Taking Responsibility for the Whole Class
One of the HLTA standards talks about taking responsibility for a whole class. The term ‘whole class’ is not defined by an absolute or precise number of pupils. What defines whole-class activities is the Teaching Assistant’s (TA) role in introducing, managing and completing a topic or task, and the degree and complexity of the organisation and management of learning and behaviour within relatively large groups of pupils or students with diverse needs.
The whole class document provides detailed guidance on this standard. It answers the frequently asked questions, which have been raised by both teaching assistants and teaching staff. It also provides guidance on how to achieve this standard.
