Preparation for HLTA Assessment: Courses
Our role at HLTA South is to manage assessments on behalf of HNAP rather than offer Preparation for Assessment courses. These are offered and managed by a number of organisations or training providers, across our geographical area. As part of their course, they will advise candidate how their work can be assessed in order to gain the National Status through HLTA South on behalf of HNAP.
Some PoPs offer online courses through a virtual classroom approach; others offer face-to-face sessions or a blended learning approach; they will take applications throughout the year. HLTA South are happy to advise support staff on what is expected in terms of a preparation course and will direct any enquiries to courses available in your area
All the courses listed on our site ensure candidates are fully prepared to be assessed for the award of HLTA Status, following the national guidance as outlined in the National Partnership’s Code of Practice.
Preparation for HLTA Assessment: basic course information
Preparation courses are designed for suitably experienced support staff who are already working, or are able to work, at a higher level in their educational setting and are looking to gain a professional status. HLTA status recognises their contribution to teaching and learning; their knowledge and understanding of learners; their use of legislation and frameworks in their everyday practice; and their professional attributes such as their communication skills. The preparation plus assessment can normally be completed within two school terms; the tutor led element of a course is the equivalent of three full days and can be delivered face to face or through a series of online sessions. Please contact individual PoPs for information about how their course is organised and managed and the costs involved.
Further information about HLTA status can be found here
Some training organisations offer additional days alongside the preparation course to help candidates develop and improve their practice. If you are interested in this option, contact the PoPs or Training Providers in your area to enquire about any additional training they provide.
L5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship
The new L5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship, launched in 2025, offers teaching assistants a further opportunity for professional development with access to the apprenticeship levy.
In order to support this initiative, for candidates who have completed their apprenticeship, HNAP, has developed an ASSESSMENT ONLY ROUTE
