TQUK Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants (RQF)

What You’ll Learn

By completing this course, learners will:

• Understand the HLTA role and professional expectations
• Confidently support teaching and learning at a higher level
• Develop effective strategies for pupil engagement and assessment
• Provide focused, inclusive support for diverse learner needs
• Take on a proactive role in lesson planning, behaviour support, and communication with staff and families

The TQUK Level 4 Certificate for Higher Level Teaching Assistants (RQF) is ideal for:

• Experienced Level 2 or 3 teaching assistants ready to progress
• School support staff who already lead groups or cover lessons
• TAs seeking formal recognition for their current responsibilities
• Individuals working in primary, secondary, or special schools
• Anyone aiming to gain the status, skills, and confidence to work as an HLTA

To enrol on this course, learners should:

• Be 18 years or older
• Be working or volunteering in a school or educational setting
• Have a Level 2 or Level 3 teaching assistant qualification (recommended)
• Be able to support the learning of individuals and groups under the guidance of a teacher
• Have access to classroom opportunities to demonstrate HLTA-level practice

This qualification includes both theoretical and practical elements. You’ll complete written assignments and gather real workplace evidence across the following units:

 Core Units:

1. Understanding the Role of the Higher-Level Teaching Assistant
   • HLTA responsibilities
   • Supporting teachers and promoting independent learning
2. Child Development and Welfare
   • Key stages of development
   • Safeguarding and promoting wellbeing
3. Awareness of Special Educational Needs (SEN)
   • Inclusive practice
   • Supporting learners with additional needs
4. Promoting Positive Behaviour
   • Behaviour management strategies
   • Creating a supportive classroom environment
5. Providing Support for Individual and Group Learning Activities
   • Planning and delivering activities
   • Assessing and adapting support
6. Assessment for Learning
   • Understanding assessment methods
   • Monitoring and recording pupil progress

This qualification supports progression to:

•  Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) roles
•  Specialist support roles in literacy, numeracy, SEN, or EAL
•  Pastoral or behaviour support roles
•  Entry into teacher training or further study in education

Following successful completion, learners may choose to:

• Apply for HLTA status recognition with their school/employer
• Progress to a Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training
• Work toward Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through further study
• Take specialist CPD in areas such as safeguarding, SEN support, or curriculum delivery

As part of your course, you will receive a 1-2-1 induction session with your tutor via Microsoft Teams. This session is designed to help you get started, set clear goals, and ensure you have the right support in place for a successful learning experience. 

What to Expect in Your Induction Session: 

• Individual Learning Plan (ILP) Creation – Your tutor will work with you to develop a personalised learning plan, outlining key milestones and ensuring your studies align with your goals.
• Target Setting – Together, you’ll set realistic and achievable targets to help you stay on track and motivated throughout your course. 
• Additional Support Needs – If you require any extra support or adjustments, this is the perfect opportunity to discuss your needs so we can tailor our support to you.

This course is assessed through practical, portfolio-based evidence and reflective assignments. There are no exams.

How You’ll Be Assessed:

• Written assignments for each unit
• Reflective journals and case studies
• Lesson plans, observation records, and support logs
• Evidence of leading activities or supporting assessment
• Feedback from class teachers or supervisors

How It’s Marked:

• Marked by a qualified assessor
• You’ll receive clear, supportive feedback
• Opportunity to revise and resubmit work if needed
• Final qualification is awarded by TQUK (Training Qualifications UK) once all criteria are met

As part of your course, you will receive unlimited email support from a dedicated course tutor throughout your tutor support period, which covers the full duration of your course. Our tutors are here to assist with any questions, provide guidance, and help you stay on track with your learning. 

If you require additional tutor support after your course end date, extra support can be purchased to ensure you continue receiving the help you need. 

For more information on extending your tutor support, please get in touch with us. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

Need Extra Support? Book a 1-2-1 Tutor Session!

If you’d like additional guidance, you can book a personalised 15-minute 1-2-1 tutor session via Microsoft Teams for just £20. Whether you need help understanding a topic, want feedback on your work, or have specific questions, our expert tutors are here to support you.

• Tailored to Your Needs – Get direct support on the areas you need help with.
• Flexible & Convenient – Sessions take place online via Teams at a time that suits you.
• Expert Guidance – Benefit from a tutor’s expertise to boost your confidence and understanding.

Make the Most of Your Session 

To ensure your tutor is fully prepared and you get the most out of your time, we ask that you send over details of what you’d like to discuss in advance. This helps us tailor the session to your needs and provide the best possible support.

Get the extra support you need to succeed – book your 1-2-1 session today!