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Up to 85% limited time discount offer on specific courses! So, hurry up and avail this wonderful opportunity.                           Professional Course Bundles on offer!

Focus Awards Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants (RQF)

£1200 £399

Unit Structure

Overview

The Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTA) is a UK OFQUAL accredited, 100% online, competency-based Teaching Assistant (TA) qualification. This qualification is designed for learners working in the teaching assistant position who wish to advance to HLTA status. This Level 4 Higher Teaching Assistant course will provide you with training to help you in becoming a teaching assistant with added expertise. Those who already have a Supporting Teaching and Learning qualification, or have done the Support Work in Schools course would have an added benefit when undertaking this HLTA training. The aim is to improve learners’ expertise, understanding, and skills to overcome the challenges they face in their workplaces. They will also gain awareness of the skills needed to help individuals and small groups, and support individuals with various additional needs.

Scope of this Qualification

This Level 4 HLTA Course is for those working in primary, secondary or special schools as teaching assistants, as Learning Support Assistants, as SEN Teaching Assistants, as Cover Supervisors, in Early Years Setting, as Learning Mentors, as Intervention and Pastoral Support Assistants etc and wish to expand their existing expertise.

Duration and Delivery

This Level 4 HLTA qualification is designed to be completed online at the pace that suits you the best. HLTA Level 4 course can be completed in as little as 5 weeks up to 9 months for you to become a qualified Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA). You have a great opportunity of fast-track completion earlier at the pace and time of your choice. This OFQUAL Regulated Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants (RQF) qualification is delivered through our Virtual Learning Environment. Our online tutor support is there to facilitate you to achieve your success rate accordingly.

Assessment and Verification

All units within this OFQUAL Regulated Level 4 HLTA qualification are internally assessed by our qualified assessors and externally verified by the awarding organisation. The assessment takes the form of written assignments, detailed feedback for which will be provided by the tutor, and witness testimony signed by your expert supervisor at your workplace. You will receive tutor support once you are enrolled on our online portal to assist you in reaching your goals.

Progression

This is a thorough qualification of Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants, which helps learners enhance their career profile. Successful completion of this 100% accredited online course enables learners to proceed to the following qualifications:

Awarding Body: Focus Awards
Qualification Number: 601/8533/8

Focus Awards is an Ofqual regulated Awarding Organisation. This guarantees that all of their qualifications conform to a high standard.

Quick Enquiry

If you have any queries, feel free to contact.

Enquire Now
  • entry

    Entry Requirements

    To get enrolled on this Level 4 HLTA course:
    • The learner must be working within a school as a teaching assistant.
    • The learner must be 16 years or above.

  • Practical Requirement

    Practical Requirements

    This course is assessed through a series of tutor marked assignments in addition to practical work, which is assessed in the workplace.
    You will be expected to demonstrate competence when working with children or young people, and be able to reflect on your practice.

  • how I will be assessed

    How will I be assessed?

    All units in the HLTA course will be assessed through a series of written assignments, which are submitted to and marked by your course tutor. For some units, you must provide a witness testimony and attachments (Work Products) to meet the assessment criteria requirements of this teaching assistant course.

  • Useful Knowledge/skills that you will learn on the course

You will be able to:

Full Payment
Monthly Instalment

Standard

£399(incl. VAT)
  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    12 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £60
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited
  • Standard Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 5-7 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Professionals studying alongside their jobs, who do not require fast tracking.
  • Not suitable if
    You are certain that you won’t be able to study regularly to complete in the maximum timeframe suggested.

Fast Track

£440(incl. VAT)
  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    12 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £40
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited – Priority
  • Fast Track Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 3-5 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 3.5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Fast track completion, fast tutor support, prompt assessor feedback
  • Not suitable if
    You are not able to devote extra time on the course because of work or personal commitments, as fast tracking is largely reliant on your own efforts.

Flexi

£480(incl. VAT)
  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    24 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £20
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited – Priority
  • Flexi Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 3-5 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 3.5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Professionals who do not want any pressure to complete the course in the recommended duration.
  • Not suitable if
    You are able to study regularly every week and are confident to complete the course within the recommended duration.

Standard

£459(incl. VAT)
  • £65.55 (incl. VAT)/Month
  • No. of instalments
    7
  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    12 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £60
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited
  • Standard Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 5-7 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Professionals studying alongside their jobs, who do not require fast tracking.
  • Not suitable if
    You are certain that you won’t be able to study regularly to complete in the maximum timeframe suggested.

Fast Track

£505(incl. VAT)
  • £72.11 (incl. VAT)/Month
  • No. of instalments
    7
  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    12 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £40
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited – Priority
  • Fast Track Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 3-5 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 3.5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Fast track completion, fast tutor support, prompt assessor feedback
  • Not suitable if
    You are not able to devote extra time on the course because of work or personal commitments, as fast tracking is largely reliant on your own efforts.

Flexi

£551(incl. VAT)
  • £61.18 (incl. VAT)/Month
  • No. of instalments
    9
  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    24 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £20
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited – Priority
  • Flexi Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 3-5 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 3.5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Professionals who do not want any pressure to complete the course in the recommended duration.
  • Not suitable if
    You are able to study regularly every week and are confident to complete the course within the recommended duration.

All prices include course fees, awarding body dues, OfQual approved certification, postage of certificate & VAT. The final certification you get is the same, regardless of your route. There are no strict deadlines for submitting individual coursework, allowing you room and flexibility to pace your studies; the only deadline is the overall course duration based on the option you selected above.

Why choose BSA?

Instant Access to VLE

You can have instant access to the course; once you enrol on the course, you can start studying immediately.

Expert Tutor Support

Our courses are designed to provide a dedicated online tutor support to learners throughout the course for ongoing assistance.

Flexible Payment Plans

Flexible payment plans to suit your budget; pay the fee in easy monthly instalments.

Accredited Certification

You will receive your accredited certificate and transcript at no additional cost from our approved awarding body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this course for?

This qualification is suitable for anyone working in a Teaching Assistant role and wish to progress to the role of Higher Level Teaching Assistant.

How many credits are required to complete this course?

The Certificate requires 36 credits.

Is this course approved by any recognised awarding organisation?

Our courses are OFQUAL approved as we work with an approved awarding organisation called “Focus Awards”. This is a well-respected awarding organisation for education and training courses. This is the confirmation of their status-https://register.ofqual.gov.uk/Detail/Index/1391?category=organisations&query=focus%20awards.

Why is this course named L4 HLTA?

HLTA stands for Higher Level Teaching Assistant. So, L4 HLTA course is just an abbreviation for Level 4 Higher Level Teaching Assistants course.

What type of job roles can you apply for on completion?

This course will open doors to your new career as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant working with children and young people in a school environment.

Does my course involve a work placement?

Yes, you need to work in a school environment where you are required to show competence in both knowledge and skills.

Will I get HLTA Status after the course completion?

What we are offering is the HLTA qualification that is designed in line with the HLTA Standards. You can get HLTA position in your school after achieving this qualification. The HLTA (Higher Learning Teaching Assistant) certificate does not give you HLTA status. You will need to pass an HLTA assessment to achieve this. However, the knowledge gained on our HLTA qualification will be invaluable in preparing you for this assessment, as the units are specifically based around the professional HLTA standards required for HLTA status.

To achieve HLTA status, you will also need to already be a teaching assistant with documented classroom hours and a nationally recognised qualification at level 2 or above in English/literacy and maths/numeracy. Visit the HLTA National Assessment Partnership for full details on the HLTA assessment process.

How quickly will I receive my course material?

You will receive your course materials right after you are enrolled on this course at our online Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

What is the time frame for completing this course?

There is no time frame to complete the course. Learners can complete it within 5 weeks (fast track) or up to 9 months.

 

Which TA (Teaching Assistants) course is best for me?
Have a quick look at the following chart for TA courses to know which course suits you the best:
What is a Witness Testimony?

Witness testimonies are classed as “supporting” evidence and provide additional information in the form of a statement of authentication from an occupationally competent individual who verifies all relevant details of a learner’s workplace activities and validates that the learner can conduct a skill or task. In some instances, the course requires the learner to demonstrate certain skills such as “Positive working relationships” or “motivate and support children and young people’s positive behaviour”, all of which are very difficult to prove using documentary evidence alone. Hence, an expert witness is tasked with providing a written record of learner’s performance at the workplace, precisely describing the activity undertaken against targeted assessment criteria confirming if these have been followed in the work setting. Witness testimonies are compulsory in certain units and this will be clearly stated in the relevant Assignment Guide. Moreover, it is to be noted that you will need to write a reflective account as well along with providing the witness testimony.

 

What is a reflective account?

A reflective account is the supporting written evidence/ learner’s statement that indicates how the learner performed/performs the activity testified by the workplace supervisor, what went well and what did not, what you learnt and what you should have done. You also mention what strategies you will adapt for improvement. Please note that there is no separate document for writing a reflective account. Reflective account/learner’s statement is given in the same Assessment Brief document.

Who will provide witness statement/testimony on my workplace activities?

An occupationally competent individual i.e. a workplace supervisor, preferably the head teacher, or even a teacher you are directly working with as a teaching assistant is requested to complete the Witness Statement form. Without this independent verification, it is impossible for us to approve your tasks.

How many witness statements are required?

There is only one witness statement form to be filled by your workplace supervisor only. This form will cover all practical tasks across relevant units of the accredited course.

Could there be any reasons why my course is not a “Pass” even after submitting the Witness Statement form?

Firstly, a witness statement is a source of evidence and does not confirm the achievement of assessment criteria or confer an assessment decision. For that purpose, the assessor needs to:

  1. consider all the information in the witness statement
  2. note the relevant professional skills of the witness to make a judgement of performance
  3. review the supporting written evidence/ reflective account when making an assessment decision
  4. be convinced that the evidence presented in the witness statement is valid, sufficient and authentic

Moreover, if the supervisor has not witnessed you performing some of the targeted assessment criteria in your undertaken activities, the assessor will have to conduct an observation directly observing your activity to confirm the fulfillment of the remaining assessment criteria.

How would the tutor/ assessor know that the activity undertaken by me and the information given in the form by the Witness is valid and authentic?

As teachers, we are bound to follow professional ethics. There is an element of trust that our trainee teaching assistants and the expert witness won’t present an inaccurate account of the activity undertaken. However, we will be vigilant and investigate where we are concerned that the sessions have not taken place as claimed.

Am I to undertake all the activities as enlisted in the HLTA course all over again for my supervisor to observe?

The good news is that you supervisor may provide testimony based on the activities you had performed in the past, or usually perform at your workplace on daily/weekly basis. All we need is the confirmation that you practise the skills at your workplace that we are teaching you on the course.

I am a primary school teacher. Am I eligible to take on this HLTA qualification?

The answer is yes – This can be in either a primary, secondary or a special school setting. However, you must ensure that the pupils you work with are aged 5+ and are studying at Key Stage 1 or above. You will also need the support of a mentor from within the school who will confirm your competence and prepare and sign a testimony of your abilities against the qualification standards.

What are HLTA Standards?

The HLTA professional standards set out exactly what is expected of teaching assistants working towards the HLTA status. There are 33 standards, grouped under three main headings:

  • Standards 1-7 – Professional attributes

These set out the attitudes, values and commitment expected of HLTAs.

  • Standards 8-16 – Professional knowledge and understanding

These set out the knowledge and skills needed by HLTAs to be able to work effectively with teachers as part of the professional team supporting learning.

  • Standards 17-33 – Professional skills

These set out the expectations for planning, monitoring, managing and evaluating learning within the framework of guidance and supervision agreed with the assigned teacher and in accordance with arrangements made by the Head Teacher of the school.

Is simulation allowed on this course?

The short answer is No – Our HLTA Level 4 course is a competence-based qualification that requires you to demonstrate your workplace competence and reflect on your practice when working with children and/or young people.

What if I still have any questions?

Please refer to our main FAQs section or Contact Us; we have experienced course advisers who will be happy to assist you!

Related Courses and Bundles

Related Blogs

Quick Enquiry

Description

£1200 £399


Apply Now


  • Credits – 36


  • TQT – 360

  • GLH – 87


  • Recommended Course Duration – Up to 9 Months


  • Option to fast-track in 5 Weeks is available.


Download Course PDF

Unit Structure

  • Unit 1: Professional knowledge and development for higher level teaching assistants
  • Unit 2: Child development and well-being
  • Unit 3: Supporting children and young people with special educational needs
  • Unit 4: Promoting children and young people’s positive behaviour
  • Unit 5: Working with individual and groups of learners
  • Unit 6: Positive working relationships
  • Unit 7: Curriculum planning, monitoring, delivery and assessments

Overview

The Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTA) is a UK OFQUAL accredited, 100% online, competency-based Teaching Assistant (TA) qualification. This qualification is designed for learners working in the teaching assistant position who wish to advance to HLTA status. This Level 4 Higher Teaching Assistant course will provide you with training to help you in becoming a teaching assistant with added expertise. Those who already have a Supporting Teaching and Learning qualification, or have done the Support Work in Schools course would have an added benefit when undertaking this HLTA training. The aim is to improve learners’ expertise, understanding, and skills to overcome the challenges they face in their workplaces. They will also gain awareness of the skills needed to help individuals and small groups, and support individuals with various additional needs.

Scope of this Qualification

This Level 4 HLTA Course is for those working in primary, secondary or special schools as teaching assistants, as Learning Support Assistants, as SEN Teaching Assistants, as Cover Supervisors, in Early Years Setting, as Learning Mentors, as Intervention and Pastoral Support Assistants etc and wish to expand their existing expertise.

Duration and Delivery

This Level 4 HLTA qualification is designed to be completed online at the pace that suits you the best. HLTA Level 4 course can be completed in as little as 5 weeks up to 9 months for you to become a qualified Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA). You have a great opportunity of fast-track completion earlier at the pace and time of your choice. This OFQUAL Regulated Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants (RQF) qualification is delivered through our Virtual Learning Environment. Our online tutor support is there to facilitate you to achieve your success rate accordingly.

Assessment and Verification

All units within this OFQUAL Regulated Level 4 HLTA qualification are internally assessed by our qualified assessors and externally verified by the awarding organisation. The assessment takes the form of written assignments, detailed feedback for which will be provided by the tutor, and witness testimony signed by your expert supervisor at your workplace. You will receive tutor support once you are enrolled on our online portal to assist you in reaching your goals.

Progression

This is a thorough qualification of Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants, which helps learners enhance their career profile. Successful completion of this 100% accredited online course enables learners to proceed to the following qualifications:


focus awards

Awarding Body: Focus Awards
Qualification Number: 601/8533/8

Focus Awards is an Ofqual regulated Awarding Organisation. This guarantees that all of their qualifications conform to a high standard.


Verify the Qualification

Quick Enquiry

If you have any queries, feel free to contact.

Enquire Now

  • entry

    Entry Requirements

    To get enrolled on this Level 4 HLTA course:

    • The learner must be working within a school as a teaching assistant.

    • The learner must be 16 years or above.

  • Practical Requirement

    Practical Requirements

    This course is assessed through a series of tutor marked assignments in addition to practical work, which is assessed in the workplace.
    You will be expected to demonstrate competence when working with children or young people, and be able to reflect on your practice.

  • how I will be assessed

    How will I be assessed?

    All units in the HLTA course will be assessed through a series of written assignments, which are submitted to and marked by your course tutor. For some units, you must provide a witness testimony and attachments (Work Products) to meet the assessment criteria requirements of this teaching assistant course.

  • Useful Knowledge/skills that you will learn on the course

You will be able to:

  • Understand the Higher Level Teaching Assistant role.
  • Understand child development, welfare and special education needs.
  • Learn to work collaboratively in a team.
  • Learn to develop and promote positive behaviour in children and young people.
  • Support teachers in curriculum planning, monitoring, delivery and assessment.
  • Combat workplace challenges by developing your own knowledge, understanding and skills.
  • Broaden your knowledge on how to support individuals, small groups and those with additional needs.
  • Assist the teacher with lesson planning, creating support materials and managing other support staff.


Trustpilot

Full Payment

Monthly Instalment

Standard

£399(incl. VAT)

  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    12 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £60
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited
  • Standard Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 5-7 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Professionals studying alongside their jobs, who do not require fast tracking.
  • Not suitable if
    You are certain that you won’t be able to study regularly to complete in the maximum timeframe suggested.


Proceed

Fast Track

£440(incl. VAT)

  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    12 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £40
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited – Priority
  • Fast Track Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 3-5 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 3.5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Fast track completion, fast tutor support, prompt assessor feedback
  • Not suitable if
    You are not able to devote extra time on the course because of work or personal commitments, as fast tracking is largely reliant on your own efforts.


Proceed

Flexi

£480(incl. VAT)

  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    24 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £20
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited – Priority
  • Flexi Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 3-5 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 3.5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Professionals who do not want any pressure to complete the course in the recommended duration.
  • Not suitable if
    You are able to study regularly every week and are confident to complete the course within the recommended duration.


Proceed

Standard

£459(incl. VAT)

  • £65.55 (incl. VAT)/Month
  • No. of instalments
    7
  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    12 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £60
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited
  • Standard Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 5-7 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Professionals studying alongside their jobs, who do not require fast tracking.
  • Not suitable if
    You are certain that you won’t be able to study regularly to complete in the maximum timeframe suggested.


Proceed

Fast Track

£505(incl. VAT)

  • £72.11 (incl. VAT)/Month
  • No. of instalments
    7
  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    12 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £40
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited – Priority
  • Fast Track Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 3-5 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 3.5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Fast track completion, fast tutor support, prompt assessor feedback
  • Not suitable if
    You are not able to devote extra time on the course because of work or personal commitments, as fast tracking is largely reliant on your own efforts.


Proceed

Flexi

£551(incl. VAT)

  • £61.18 (incl. VAT)/Month
  • No. of instalments
    9
  • Recommended Duration
    Up to 9 Months
  • Maximum Duration Allowed
    24 Months
  • Re-registration charges after Maximum Duration
    £20
  • Tutor Support
    Unlimited – Priority
  • Flexi Assessment Decision and Feedback
    Within 3-5 Working Days*
    *Average time taken for assessment feedback is 3.5 working days
  • Suitable for
    Professionals who do not want any pressure to complete the course in the recommended duration.
  • Not suitable if
    You are able to study regularly every week and are confident to complete the course within the recommended duration.


Proceed

All prices include course fees, awarding body dues, OfQual approved certification, postage of certificate & VAT. The final certification you get is the same, regardless of your route. There are no strict deadlines for submitting individual coursework, allowing you room and flexibility to pace your studies; the only deadline is the overall course duration based on the option you selected above.

Why choose BSA?

Instant Access to VLE

You can have instant access to the course; once you enrol on the course, you can start studying immediately.

Expert Tutor Support

Our courses are designed to provide a dedicated online tutor support to learners throughout the course for ongoing assistance.

Flexible Payment Plans

Flexible payment plans to suit your budget; pay the fee in easy monthly instalments.

Accredited Certification

You will receive your accredited certificate and transcript at no additional cost from our approved awarding body.


watch video

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this course for?

This qualification is suitable for anyone working in a Teaching Assistant role and wish to progress to the role of Higher Level Teaching Assistant.

How many credits are required to complete this course?

The Certificate requires 36 credits.

Is this course approved by any recognised awarding organisation?

Our courses are OFQUAL approved as we work with an approved awarding organisation called “Focus Awards”. This is a well-respected awarding organisation for education and training courses. This is the confirmation of their status-https://register.ofqual.gov.uk/Detail/Index/1391?category=organisations&query=focus%20awards.

Why is this course named L4 HLTA?

HLTA stands for Higher Level Teaching Assistant. So, L4 HLTA course is just an abbreviation for Level 4 Higher Level Teaching Assistants course.

What type of job roles can you apply for on completion?

This course will open doors to your new career as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant working with children and young people in a school environment.

Does my course involve a work placement?

Yes, you need to work in a school environment where you are required to show competence in both knowledge and skills.

Will I get HLTA Status after the course completion?

What we are offering is the HLTA qualification that is designed in line with the HLTA Standards. You can get HLTA position in your school after achieving this qualification. The HLTA (Higher Learning Teaching Assistant) certificate does not give you HLTA status. You will need to pass an HLTA assessment to achieve this. However, the knowledge gained on our HLTA qualification will be invaluable in preparing you for this assessment, as the units are specifically based around the professional HLTA standards required for HLTA status.

To achieve HLTA status, you will also need to already be a teaching assistant with documented classroom hours and a nationally recognised qualification at level 2 or above in English/literacy and maths/numeracy. Visit the HLTA National Assessment Partnership for full details on the HLTA assessment process.

How quickly will I receive my course material?

You will receive your course materials right after you are enrolled on this course at our online Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

What is the time frame for completing this course?

There is no time frame to complete the course. Learners can complete it within 5 weeks (fast track) or up to 9 months.

 

Which TA (Teaching Assistants) course is best for me?Have a quick look at the following chart for TA courses to know which course suits you the best:
What is a Witness Testimony?

Witness testimonies are classed as “supporting” evidence and provide additional information in the form of a statement of authentication from an occupationally competent individual who verifies all relevant details of a learner’s workplace activities and validates that the learner can conduct a skill or task. In some instances, the course requires the learner to demonstrate certain skills such as “Positive working relationships” or “motivate and support children and young people’s positive behaviour”, all of which are very difficult to prove using documentary evidence alone. Hence, an expert witness is tasked with providing a written record of learner’s performance at the workplace, precisely describing the activity undertaken against targeted assessment criteria confirming if these have been followed in the work setting. Witness testimonies are compulsory in certain units and this will be clearly stated in the relevant Assignment Guide. Moreover, it is to be noted that you will need to write a reflective account as well along with providing the witness testimony.

 

What is a reflective account?

A reflective account is the supporting written evidence/ learner’s statement that indicates how the learner performed/performs the activity testified by the workplace supervisor, what went well and what did not, what you learnt and what you should have done. You also mention what strategies you will adapt for improvement. Please note that there is no separate document for writing a reflective account. Reflective account/learner’s statement is given in the same Assessment Brief document.

Who will provide witness statement/testimony on my workplace activities?

An occupationally competent individual i.e. a workplace supervisor, preferably the head teacher, or even a teacher you are directly working with as a teaching assistant is requested to complete the Witness Statement form. Without this independent verification, it is impossible for us to approve your tasks.

How many witness statements are required?

There is only one witness statement form to be filled by your workplace supervisor only. This form will cover all practical tasks across relevant units of the accredited course.

Could there be any reasons why my course is not a “Pass” even after submitting the Witness Statement form?

Firstly, a witness statement is a source of evidence and does not confirm the achievement of assessment criteria or confer an assessment decision. For that purpose, the assessor needs to:

  1. consider all the information in the witness statement
  2. note the relevant professional skills of the witness to make a judgement of performance
  3. review the supporting written evidence/ reflective account when making an assessment decision
  4. be convinced that the evidence presented in the witness statement is valid, sufficient and authentic

Moreover, if the supervisor has not witnessed you performing some of the targeted assessment criteria in your undertaken activities, the assessor will have to conduct an observation directly observing your activity to confirm the fulfillment of the remaining assessment criteria.

How would the tutor/ assessor know that the activity undertaken by me and the information given in the form by the Witness is valid and authentic?

As teachers, we are bound to follow professional ethics. There is an element of trust that our trainee teaching assistants and the expert witness won’t present an inaccurate account of the activity undertaken. However, we will be vigilant and investigate where we are concerned that the sessions have not taken place as claimed.

Am I to undertake all the activities as enlisted in the HLTA course all over again for my supervisor to observe?

The good news is that you supervisor may provide testimony based on the activities you had performed in the past, or usually perform at your workplace on daily/weekly basis. All we need is the confirmation that you practise the skills at your workplace that we are teaching you on the course.

I am a primary school teacher. Am I eligible to take on this HLTA qualification?

The answer is yes – This can be in either a primary, secondary or a special school setting. However, you must ensure that the pupils you work with are aged 5+ and are studying at Key Stage 1 or above. You will also need the support of a mentor from within the school who will confirm your competence and prepare and sign a testimony of your abilities against the qualification standards.

What are HLTA Standards?

The HLTA professional standards set out exactly what is expected of teaching assistants working towards the HLTA status. There are 33 standards, grouped under three main headings:

  • Standards 1-7 – Professional attributes

These set out the attitudes, values and commitment expected of HLTAs.

  • Standards 8-16 – Professional knowledge and understanding

These set out the knowledge and skills needed by HLTAs to be able to work effectively with teachers as part of the professional team supporting learning.

  • Standards 17-33 – Professional skills

These set out the expectations for planning, monitoring, managing and evaluating learning within the framework of guidance and supervision agreed with the assigned teacher and in accordance with arrangements made by the Head Teacher of the school.

Is simulation allowed on this course?

The short answer is No – Our HLTA Level 4 course is a competence-based qualification that requires you to demonstrate your workplace competence and reflect on your practice when working with children and/or young people.

What if I still have any questions?

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8 reviews for Focus Awards Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants (RQF)

  1. Elizabeth Mendez

    Excellent support throughout. I would highly recommend this company.

  2. Alson Denton

    Excellent support from my Tutor through a difficult period I had during my course. This company is highly recommendable.

  3. Kym

    Have just finished this course. The support was great and any questions I had or support was given quickly. I would recommend this company. Thanks to you all!

  4. Hayley Meads

    Great support and guidance throughout the whole of my course. I would highly recommend this company.

  5. Amanda

    I have just completed my Level 4 HLTA course and now awaiting for my certificate. This has been one of the best online courses that I have done for years, I had lots of support from my tutor Filip who was always on hand to help with any questions. All of the material that is supplied with this course is really helpful, interesting and easy to use. I never had to wait long for feedback from my assignments and was able to put right anything very quickly first time, due to the advice given from Filip. I would definitely recommend this course to anyone who is looking to progress to a HLTA in a School. Thank you Britannia School of Academics for your help and confidence in me.

  6. Philippa Newton

    I have just completed the Level 4 HLTA course awaiting certificate. Demanding but worthwhile course especially if working full time. However, the support from the tutors is fantastic and they have always been available to answer questions and the feedback provided for each assignment helped me focus in on particular aspects that I was unsure of in first submissions. Feedback always constructive and helpful. I have learnt a great deal which I’m going to apply into my current role. I would recommend them for their online courses

  7. Kalvinder Kaur

    I have really enjoyed doing this course and the support given from my tutor Filip gas been so thorough and helpful. The only suggestion I would like to put forward is that the amount of work asked from my supervisor was quite a lot and almost like an assignment itself. I was very fortunate that I had a supervisor that read and responded to everything that was asked for in the witness testimony form for each unit. Overall a fantastic course to complete and gain a qualification in.

  8. Jemma

    Fantastic course, would recommend, especially if you are working whilst completing as you can complete in your own time with support.I had great support at my workplace as well as from my tutors through this course, you need both as topics are rightly broad and in depth, which has made me feel like i have really gained knowledge and progressed as well as achieved.

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Do you hold a relevant qualification in your area of expertise or specialism, at a level higher than that of your learners?


What will be covered?

Day 1:

  • Principles, Functions, Methods and Types of Assessment
  • Responsibilities of an assessor
  • Risks involved in assessment
  • Managing and making an assessment decision

Day 2:

  • Discussion on assessment methods used in a competence-based work environment
  • Planning the assessments
  • Practising professional discussion, questioning and direct observation
  • Activity regarding providing assessment decisions and feedback
  • How to write the reflective account on Unit 2

Day 3:

  • Discussion on assessment methods used in a vocational setting
  • Methods and information to include in assessment plans
  • Activity regarding carrying out the assessments
  • Activity regarding providing assessment decisions and feedback
  • How to record assessment decisions and reflective discussion

Do you have a criminal background that would prevent you from working with young people or vulnerable adults as a teacher?


Can you access a classroom where you can complete 100 hours of teaching?


Do you possess a minimum core of literacy, language, numeracy, and ICT skills?


Are you suitable for this course?


Add Your Heading Text Here

This course is designed for professionals looking to enhance their skills and qualifications in teaching and training roles. Take our suitability checker to determine if you’re a good fit for the course.

 
Iqbal-Ahmad-1

Iqbal Ahmad

Academic Interest

Teachers training up to postgraduate level, assessment and quality assurance, management and leadership training

Qualifications

Accounting and Finance

  • Certified Accounting Technician (CAT)
  • B.Sc (hons) in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brooked University
  • Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
  • Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)

Management and Leadership

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Management Studies from London International College
  • Master of Business Administration from Anglia Ruskin University
  • Level 7 Diploma in Education Management and Leadership
  • Doctorate candidate for DBA at University of the West of Scotland

Humanities

  • MA Abrahamic Religions from Heythrop College, University of London

Education and Training

  • Level 3 Award in Mathematics for Numeracy Teaching
  • Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement
  • Level 4 Certificate in Leading the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment
  • Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in the Higher Education from Kingston University
  • Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)
Profile Summary

A keen learner myself, I am actively involved in a range of teachers training courses for the past few years all the way up to postgraduate level. I have extensive experience of dealing with the awarding organisation compliance because of a strong background in assessment and quality assurance. I have trained a wide range of teaching professionals working in a range of schools, sixth form colleges and in the higher education sector.

saheed-1

Saheed Arinola Ayinde

Academic Interest

Assessment and quality assurance in academia, business, accounting and finance lecturing, and teacher training.

Qualifications

Accounting and Finance

  • MBA in Accounting and Finance at the University of East London
  • BSc. (Hons) Accounting and Finance

Management and Leadership

  • MSc. International Business Management at the University of Gloucestershire

Education and Training

  • Fellow of Higher Education Academy (FHEA – Ref: PR134295)
  • Level 3 Education & Teaching Training (E & T/PTLLS)
  • Level 3 Training, Assessment, & Quality Assurance (TAQA)
  • Successfully mentored a Trainee on the PGCE/PCE Programme
Profile Summary

I have over 15 years’ experience in teaching and training. During this time, I have undertaken teacher training, been a lecturer and course supervisor for ICM, and cohort leader and lecturer for HND (BTEC-Pearson). I have taught business management units/modules at various levels (and awarding bodies) including Certificate, Diploma, Advance Diploma, and Foundation degree levels. I enjoy learning through continuous professional development and have achieved my Fellowship with the Higher Education Academy. I enjoy utlising my experience in training, assessment, and quality assurance to train the education professionals of the future.

Rahaman-Hasan

Rahaman Hasan

Academic Interest

Teachers training, assessment and quality assurance, quality assurance in academia, management and leadership training and research.

Qualifications

Education and Training

  • Senior Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)
  • Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS)

Marketing

  • MA in Strategic Marketing, University of Greenwich, UK
  • BBA in Marketing, Independent University Bangladesh, Bangladesh

Management and Leadership

  • PhD in Entrepreneurship (passed viva), University of Essex, UK
  • MBA in General Management, University of Wales, UK
  • Diploma in Business and Admin, UK

Humanities

  • Social Entrepreneurship, University of Oxford, UK
Profile Summary

I am a PhD candidate (passed viva) at the University of Essex. My specialisation in PhD is Entrepreneurship. I am an active researcher with specific interest in Entrepreneurship, SME, Marketing and UK Higher Education (UKHE). I have over 14 years work experience in UKHE, which includes extensive experience of quality assurance in the sector. Furthermore, providing academic training to teaching professionals in the higher education sector is my passion.

carol

Coral Bishop

Academic Interest

Assessment and quality assurance for levels 2 to 5 in Teacher Training, Leadership and Management, Health and Social Care, Customer Service and Childcare.

Qualifications

Education and Training

  • Level 4 Certificate in Teaching and Education
  • Advanced Level 3 Apprenticeship in Learning & Development
  • Level 5 Certificate Learning for All (Open University E242)
  • 120hr TEFL certificate
  • D32/33 and 34 Assessor and IQA Awards

Customer Service

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Customer Service

Health and Social Care

  • MAKATON LEVEL 1
  • TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Safe Handling of Medication
  • Level 3 Health and Social Care

Childcare

  • L3 Diploma in Pre-School Practice
Profile Summary

I have worked in education for 34 years, in various guises. I managed a busy nursery for 12 years before branching out into Assessment and Quality Assurance, more than 20 years ago. My practice has developed alongside the ever-evolving training and apprenticeship sector, and I have worked in many different settings, including colleges, private training agencies and a foster care agency. I also work part time as a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant for a local charity that supports higher level education for young people with Special Educational and/or behavioural needs and as a tutor for a bespoke programme for one-to-one support. I really enjoy supporting learners of varying abilities and experience to achieve their best and to become qualified in their chosen field.

Hasan Apat

Academic Interest

Vocational skills training, teaching numeracy, and leadership training

Qualifications
  • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Secondary Mathematics
  • Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
  • Level 3 Qualifications in Mathematics, Economics, and Biology
Profile Summary

I have a wealth of expertise teaching learners in various vocationally-related subjects such as mathematics and employability skills. Working with education and training professionals to attain Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) is also something I have thoroughly enjoyed in the last couple of years.

francis-older-28

Francis Fitzgerald

Academic Interest

Accountancy and assessor training, as well as assessment and quality assurance.

Qualifications

Accounting and Finance

  • AAT Level 2 Foundation Certificate in Bookkeeping
  • AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting
  • AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accountin

Education and Training

  • Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement
  • Level 4 Certificate in Leading the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment
Profile Summary

I have experience in the finance and accounting sector and utilise these skills to approach education in a methodical and logical manner. I am passionate about the advancement and implementation of efficient teaching and learning practices. I am responsible for centre liaison with awarding bodies to ensure compliance, and am advancing my skills in assessment and quality assurance through learning and on the job training.

What will be covered?

Day 1:Topics Covered

  • Roles and responsibilities of a teacher/trainer
  • Legislations
  • Identifying and meeting the needs of learners
  • Promoting equality & diversity and creating a safe environment

Day 2:Topics Covered

  • Difference between assessment types and methods
  • Adapting assessment methods to meet learners’ needs
  • VACSR principles of assessment
  • Important tips for microteaching

Day 3:Topics Covered

  • Creating an inclusive teaching and learning environment
  • Teaching and learning approaches
  • How to reflect on the microteach
  • Microteach sessions