Teaching assistants learning pathway
Teaching assistants (TAs) are a valued and integral part of the education workforce, playing a crucial role in supporting our children and young people.
The Teaching Assistant Learning Pathway (TALP) is designed to support the professional learning of all TAs in line with the professional standards for assisting teaching. Each programme builds on the knowledge and understanding of the TA at different points during their career. The current programmes are:
- Induction for Newly appointed Teaching Assistants
- Practising Teaching Assistant Programme
- Aspiring Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA)
Higher level teaching assistants
The role of a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) is to complement the professional work of teachers for agreed learning activities under an agreed system of supervision. This may involve planning, preparing and delivering learning activities for individuals/groups or short term for whole class. The award of the HLTA status, although not a qualification, supports teaching assistants to undertake a specific role within the classroom.
The Aspiring HLTA programme supports the TA to gather a series of learning reflections matched to the professional standards for assisting teaching. This will demonstrate candidates’ readiness for HLTA assessment.
Further information about the TALP and how to apply for HLTA assessment can be found on the regional consortia website or by contacting your local consortia or partnership.