Course Summary

Are you passionate about developing educational opportunities for future generations? Would you like to support teachers and other professionals to improve educational opportunities for children and young people in school, college, training provider or independent provider settings?  Do you wish to enhance your expertise in supporting learning and gain a professional qualification? Then this is the course for you.

The Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants is aimed at teaching assistants who wish to progress to HLTA status.

Derby College has an excellent track record for high-calibre, inclusive teaching and learning. We strive for excellence and deliver superb lessons, support and feedback as well as continuous professional development.

Completing a qualification with us gives you a Level 4 qualification, exclusive access to high-quality course resources, library and career development services, as well as a busy Student Union with all the benefits and discounts that come with membership.  We have good links with local schools and provide you with a progression event so you can plan your next steps in your career.

A course completed with Derby College sets you a cut above the rest.  Our reputation for developing excellent teaching assistants is very good, and our pass rate is over 90% consistently.

What are the benefits?

• You will develop knowledge and effective skills in handling the challenges that you are likely to encounter.
• Your school will secure additional high-quality support for pupils and staff.
• Children and young people in education will benefit from effective professional support to maximise their potential.

Entry requirements

You must be aged 19 or over and have evidence of:

• Usually at least a grade C in GCSE English and Maths
• Employment in a teaching assistant role - part time or full time - within a school or provider setting
• The full support of your Head Teacher/Line Manager - a supporting letter will be needed at the interview stage
• Significant experience in working as a teaching assistant with a range of children and young people
• Capacity to attend College fortnightly for three hours
• Confidence in using standard IT equipment
• Ability to work at Level 4

Our courses require a minimum of 12 enrolments to run. You will be notified one week prior to the start date if the course is NOT going to run.

Course Content

• Professional Knowledge and Development for Higher Level Teaching Assistants
• Child Development and Wellbeing
• Supporting Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs
• Promoting Children's and Young People's Positive Behaviour
• Working with Individuals and Groups of Learners
• Positive Working Relationships
• Curriculum Planning, Monitoring, Delivery and Assessment

How will I be assessed?

A range of assessment methods is used, including group presentations, group tasks, annotated photographs, written tasks, professional discussions, assessment of skills during observations of your practice in your school, reflective practice, and professional and personal development plans.

Are there any additional costs or specialist equipment required?

You will need to provide stationery only.

What can I do after this course?

Once you have completed the HLTA, you can:

• Progress in your current job role
• Advance to a Foundation Degree (Teaching Assistants, Early Years, Children's and Young People’s Services or SEND Pathway)
• Develop a teaching career.