TQUK Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) Level 4 Diploma (610/2729/7)
The TQUK HLTA Level 4 Diploma is a recognised Ofqual qualification utilising the RQF framework, and is exclusively available through NCC. Not only demonstrating to employers that you have the requisite skills to become a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA), but in addition enables you to achieve a Level 5 unit to aid continued academic progression.
In collaboration with TQUK, NCC have taken the lead in creating this new HLTA Level 4 Diploma, which can be pursued as an independent course or obtained as a supplementary HLTA qualification upon successfully completing the HLTA Level 4 Award and/or the HLTA Level 4 Certificate.
If you have already attained the Higher Level Teaching Assistant Level 4 Certificate (qualification number: 603/1432/1), we are pleased to be able to offer you a discount code that allows you to upgrade to this qualification at a significantly reduced price. To take advantage of this offer, please contact us at [email protected].
If you haven't secured a placement that allows for mentor observations and witness testimonies, which are prerequisites for pursuing the Diploma qualification, you might want to explore the TQUK Level 4 Award for Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) - 610/2726/1. This Award is also a Level 4 RQF ofqual regulated qualification, but it is focused on knowledge rather than practical experience.
Qualification Title: TQUK Level 4 Diploma for Higher Level Teaching Assistants ofqual Qualification Number: 610/2729/7 Total Credits: 72
Level 4 / TQUK / PI056
over 12 months and £ deposit
over 12 months and £ deposit
Course summary
Expert Tutoring
12 months tutor support
24hr Access to
Course, assignments & tutor
Accreditation
Fully accredited course
NUS Card Eligibility
Enjoy student discounts
Course introduction
Eligible for an NUS TOTUM Student card with this course.
This nationally recognised Ofqual approved Level 4 HLTA qualification is aimed at individuals employed in a teaching assistant role who aspire to progress to become a Higher Level Teaching Assistant and to demonstrate their capability to achieve HLTA qualification status.
The purpose is to develop learners' knowledge, understanding, and skills to enable them to address the challenges they encounter in their workplace. They will also develop an understanding of the knowledge required to support individuals and small groups and to support individuals with a range of additional needs.
A Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) carries out all the tasks that regular teaching assistants do, but the main difference lies in the increased level of responsibility within the classroom. As a HLTA, you will be accountable for "stepping in" when a teacher needs to be away from the classroom for a period, and while a qualified teacher is sought to provide cover.
Attaining HLTA status is a recognised progression route for school support staff. HLTAs work closely with teachers to elevate standards and assist each student in reaching their full potential.
The HLTA professional standards outline precisely what is expected of teaching assistants working towards HLTA status. There are 33 standards, grouped under three main headings.
Standards 1-7 - Professional attributes
These standards outline the expected attitudes, values, and commitment of HLTAs.
Standards 8-16 - Professional knowledge and understanding
These standards define the knowledge and skills necessary for HLTAs to effectively collaborate with teachers as integral members of the professional team supporting learning.
Standards 17-33 - Professional skills
These standards establish the expectations for planning, monitoring, managing, and assessing learning within the established framework of guidance and supervision provided by the assigned teacher, and in accordance with arrangements made by the Head Teacher of the school.
While teaching assistants (TAs) primarily provide support in tasks such as classroom preparation and maintenance, displaying student work, or working with small groups of pupils, Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs) are actively engaged in the direct delivery of instruction. They undertake various responsibilities, including:
- Assisting in lesson planning
- Contributing to the creation of support materials
- Leading a whole class under supervision
- Specialising in a particular subject area
- Taking charge of other support staff
These additional responsibilities necessitate that HLTAs must meet specific requirements that are not applicable to teaching and learning support assistants at lower levels.
Due to the increased level of responsibility, Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs) can anticipate receiving a slightly higher salary compared to regular teaching assistants. However, it is important to note that pay rates are determined by employers and can vary considerably. Generally, one would expect to receive a salary ranging from £17,000 to £27,500 per year. This salary has the potential to increase further with additional specialisations or responsibilities related to Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Please be aware that to fulfil the requirements of this qualification, a minimum of 50 hours of work placement is necessary.
Prior to studying towards this qualification, it is essential that you secure voluntary or paid work experience in a school setting or already hold a position as a teaching assistant. This is because the role of a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) is to make a significant impact on the classroom and contribute to student progress. The duration of your placement should be no less than 50 hours.
The work placement can take place in a primary, secondary, or special school. However, it is imperative to ensure that the pupils you work with are aged 5 and above and are studying at Key Stage 1 or higher. Additionally, you will require the support of a mentor from within the school who will validate your competency, prepare a testimonial, and endorse your abilities based on the qualification standards.
Once you have successfully completed this course, it is at the discretion of the school to determine whether you will be granted HLTA status. It is worth noting that some schools may have additional requirements that must be met before the status can be awarded.
This program introduces a Level 5 unit specifically focused on understanding a range of educational research and data analysis methods and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and concerns related to utilising research and conducting systematic investigations. Furthermore, the course aims to develop proficiency in the skills necessary to effectively document, present, and distribute educational research findings through clear and concise write-ups, reports, and dissemination methods.
If you have not yet studied at Level 4, you might consider starting with the HLTA Level 4 Certificate (ofqual 603/1432/1). Once you have completed and obtained the certificate for that course, we can provide you with a significant discount on this course, allowing you to achieve a qualification at each stage.
Alternatively, if you are interested in pursuing a career as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) but currently lack a suitable placement, you may consider starting with the HLTA Level 4 Award (ofqual 610/2726/1). This course focuses on knowledge acquisition and can significantly improve your prospects of securing a placement.
If you have previously completed either the Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTA) Award or Certificate qualifications, your completed units can be applied towards the newly developed Level 4 Diploma for Higher Level Teaching Assistants. In this instance you can contact us at [email protected] and you will be provided with a discount code to apply when purchasing the new HLTA Level 4 Diploma.
Qualification Title: TQUK Level 4 Diploma for Higher Level Teaching Assistants ofqual Qualification Number: 610/2729/7 Total Credits: 72
Required knowledge
There are no specific entry requirements, however learners should have a minimum of level 2 in literacy and numeracy or equivalent. Should you not currently have any evidence of this, then please contact us at [email protected] and we will advise how you can achieve this as well as your HLTA qualification.
The recommended minimum age for this qualification is 18 years and above.
Assessment
You will be assessed on your knowledge and skills through a mix of questions and activities which will require a range of responses. This will include descriptive answers and the completion of practical activities.
You will be expected to demonstrate competence and be able to reflect on your practice. Given that you will be currently working with children, the activities required for completion may be used in support of your specific job role.
Awarding organisation
Training Qualification UK are one of the newest, most dynamic awarding organisations in the industry, seeking to bring a fresh approach and excellent service to training providers, colleges, and learners. TQUK qualifications are designed by leading professionals and delivered to centres and learners with integrity and compliance in mind. TQUK have rigorous quality assurance controls and procedures in place and are committed to maintaining the highest standards of customer service, qualification delivery and assessment.
TQUK are fully approved as an awarding organisation by Ofqual and award RQF courses in a number of sectors. RQF courses have various credits values which can be applied to the National Credit Transfer System. TQUK accredit courses which are developed by industry experts and work hand in hand with organisations ensuring the calibre and worth of courses provided.
Course modules
Unit 1: Safeguard the wellbeing of children and young people
Unit 2: Engage in personal development in health, social care or children's settings
Unit 3: Understand the Higher Level Teaching Assistant role.
Unit 4: Child development and welfare
Unit 5: Awareness of special educational needs
Unit 6: Promoting positive behaviour in children and young people
Unit 7: Providing support for individual learners and small groups.
Unit 8: Developing skills to promote positive working relationships.
Unit 9: Curriculum planning, delivery, and assessment
Unit 10: Exploring methodologies in educational research
Learner support
Each learner will be assigned a personal tutor who will be on hand to answer any questions you may have throughout the duration of your studies on our dedicated learning portal. The learner will have access to 12 months tutor support via our dedicated learning portal.
FAQs
NCC originally stood for the National Consortium of FE (Further Education) Colleges. This brought together the FE Colleges to achieve the best provision. Regular national meetings were attended by both Colleges and Government agencies who funded them. This was very helpful to them both to best deliver training to their students.
For more than 25 years NCC has supplied FE Colleges with learning materials as well as student marketing.
NCC now specialise in online training of a very high quality to students both self-funded, paid for by schools, employers and training providers.
Distance learning is the most flexible and convenient approach to studying. There is no need for you to attend college and you can study anytime, anyplace, anywhere that fits in with your lifestyle. Distance learning programmes are ideal for people who may have a job, family commitments, or any other commitment that won’t allow them time off to study.
Both our online and paper courses are completed via an online learning portal (LMS) which you can access after you receive your login details by email. Please ensure that you check your junk email if you do not receive your login details within 48 hours.
All learners will submit their assignments, receive feedback and correspond with their tutor directly through the LMS. If you require help from our support team, then simply email [email protected].
If you opt for the online course, you will not receive any course materials through the post. Everything is available via the LMS.
If you opt for the paper version, you are simply paying for a study book to be printed and posted to your home, or place of work. You will use this book as a reference guide, but you will still be required to upload your assignments and correspond with your tutor via the LMS.
If you are unable to access our online LMS, we do have alternative options available, so please email [email protected] in order to request further support.
We recommend that you choose a course that will interest you and help you to achieve your ambitions. If you would like some advice, or further information, contact us here or dial 0333 3445 690.
To purchase a course, simply click on the ‘Buy now’ button against your chosen course and follow the on screen instructions. Alternatively if you would prefer to purchase the course over the phone, call 0333 3445 690 and speak to one of our expert course advisors.
The price largely depends on the size and duration of the course. The course cost is determined by the expenses associated with its provision, taking into consideration the course's size and complexity, development costs, study materials, and the level of tutor support required. Some courses also necessitate additional in-person assessments by assessors, which incur additional expenses and consequently affect the course's cost.
The cost for each course is always listed clearly on the course description page before you make a purchase.
Additionally, extra fees may apply for courses that require externally monitored assessments (such as A Levels or ICB qualifications). For more details, it's best to consult with one of our course advisors.
Once you've chosen your course, you have two options for enrolment:
- You can purchase the course online by clicking the "Buy now" button, which will enrol you automatically.
- Alternatively, you can call our helpline at 0333 3445 690, and our expert course advisors will assist you in signing up for the course and arrange for the delivery of any requested additional learning materials to your address.
All courses are available to purchase in full or via affordable monthly payments over 12 months. A £29 non-refundable deposit is required for monthly payments, and you will be required to set up a monthly direct debit.
We do not require you to complete a credit check to sign up for monthly payments.
We ensure that you will receive your ordered course materials within 5 working days of registration, though for many courses, delivery may take as little as 48 hours.
Your course materials will be sent through a tracked courier service to guarantee delivery of your study book within the specified timeframe.
All the relevant information required to complete your course is available via the LMS. Additional research via the internet is encouraged, depending on the level you are working at, to bolster knowledge of the subject area.
There is no requirement to purchase any additional materials.
You will have access to a dedicated personal tutor whom you can contact through the Learning Management System (LMS) for assistance and guidance on any course-related matters. Your tutor will only initiate contact in response to your messages. If you encounter any difficulties reaching your tutor, please don't hesitate to email us at [email protected].
Many courses require you to submit work to your tutor during the period of study, and your tutor will assess your work and provide feedback to you within 10 working days. Your tutor is available to you as much as you need them.
Please note that the course includes tutor support for a duration of 12 months. If you require additional time, please inform us, and we will make every effort to provide you with an option for a paid extension, if feasible, to assist you in completing your course.
Please be aware that our tutors are actively assisting multiple learners, and to ensure they are not inundated with excessive workloads, we have implemented a policy limiting learners to submitting a maximum of three units of work for evaluation at any given time. We recommend that you upload your completed units as you finish them. This way, you can benefit from your tutor's feedback to enhance your future assignment submissions.
Your work will be marked and feedback returned to you within 10 working days after submission. This is because our tutors are required to provide detailed, considered feedback to our learners that may take a while to formulate. We find that by working this way, our learners actually complete their course in less time, as they rarely need to submit an assignment more than twice.
Whilst it is possible to submit multiple assignments at the same time, we advise that our learners submit only one at a time. We want our learners to develop as they progress through their course, and find this is best achieved when a student embarks on a new module having taken into account tutor feedback from the previous submission.
Kindly note that our tutors are currently supporting multiple learners simultaneously. In order to maintain a balanced workload for them, we have established a policy that restricts learners to submitting a maximum of three units of work for evaluation at any given time.
The time needed to complete your course depends on the specific course you've chosen and the time you're able to dedicate. Generally, it can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 12 months. You'll usually have up to 12 months from the date of purchase to complete your course if you wish to receive your certificate, this is your end of support date.
One of the biggest advantages of distance learning is the flexibility it offers. You can study at your own pace, fitting your coursework around your personal schedule and commitments. There's no pressure—no one will be chasing you to submit work or asking why you haven't turned in an assignment.
That said, we recommend considering your availability before enrolling to ensure you can devote enough time to stay motivated and complete the course within a reasonable timeframe.
All of our courses are fully accredited, and to successfully complete them, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding. Depending on the course you choose, this could involve an examination, but the assessment methods can vary.
For some courses, you'll be continuously assessed throughout your studies, while others may require a final exam or an assignment, which can be done from home and submitted to your tutor.
For specific qualifications like A-levels and GCSEs, you will need to sit invigilated exams at a registered test centre. You'll be responsible for arranging and covering the cost of these exams, but full guidance will be provided by the centre delivering the qualification.
If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to email us at [email protected]. We can help or connect you with the course provider for more details.
All of our courses are accredited and you will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the course.
For more information about this please see the section of the website that details how awarding bodies work and what the different types of qualifications are: https://www.ncchomelearning.co.uk/awarding-organisations
Yes, you can take as many courses as your time allows, but we would recommend that you clearly evaluate how much time you can commit to your courses of study.
The good news is that if your circumstances change you can always take a limited break and come back to your studies to save your paid for support.
If you decide to enrol on more than one course at the same time, speak to our enquiries team for any bundle deals or offers.
Absolutely! In most cases, our courses are accessible regardless of where you're located. However, some courses may have geographical restrictions set by the Awarding Organisation, and any such limitations will be clearly outlined in the course details.
Keep in mind that all of our tutors are UK-based, and while most work can be submitted via email, there may be rare instances where submissions need to be sent by post.
For courses that require a monitored exam, there are many test centres available internationally. If you're planning to study from abroad, we recommend reaching out to us before purchasing the course to ensure everything is in place for your studies.
If, after receiving the course, you decide it isn’t the right course for you, you may return the materials within 14 days, provided you have not yet submitted any coursework for evaluation. Please note that you will be responsible for covering the return shipping costs. We will refund your payment, minus a non-refundable deposit of £29. Additionally, you have the option to select an alternative course that better matches your goals and aspirations.
For any help on cancelling your course please email [email protected], we will only deal with cancellation enquiries via email.
Totum is the new brand for UK student cards and replaces the old NUS student card. NCC students are eligible to sign-up for the Totum card where applicable, giving access to a multitude of retail, food and travel special discounts. For more information, you can visit their website: https://www.totum.com/
More 
Ask us a question
If you'd like some more info about this course, just pop in your details, and one of the team will be in touch with you shortly.
Buy and study with confidence
Over 20 years' experience in adult education
Unlimited assignment submissions during the course
Industry recognised and accredited courses
Interest-free payment plans for up to a year
