TA chat forum

chocolate37 · New kid Joined: 13 May 2009 Posts: 2

I am in the process of completing an apprenticeship nvq3 in teaching assistant and considering a foundation degree. I know there is a lot of work involved, and wondered at the end of it would it give me a higher qualification than a HLTA, or would I have to do a HLTA as well to cover my class when the teacher is on ppa. I dont want to train to be a teacher at the end of it, just would like a good qualification. Confused

daisycat · Posted: Sun Jun 28, 2009 10:31 pm Post subject:

This one always seems to cause confusion.

Foundation Degree is a qualification that will go with you whatever you do in life and you can go on to do a top up and get a full degree.

HLTA is a status related to Teaching Assistants so probably won't mean much outside of the educational field. HLTA status can attract more money, some schools will pay you more when you are doing the role of a HLTA some will pay you more all the time whether you are using this or not in your everyday job.

Hope this helps.

KPNUT · Posted: Mon Jun 29, 2009 8:51 pm Post subject:

Hi, I have passed my HLTA.

My understanding is as the previous posting. They seem also to say that HLTA is like having a level 4 'qualification' but obviously not being able to take it outside teaching
and
the foundation degree is a level 4 and 5 combined. Which if you did want to carry on would lead you onto the last year of a Bachelors degree and then onto the PGCE.
If you do the degree this doesnt mean you have to continue, I thought about doing this but cannot commit to 2/3 years study at the moment. Really please I did the HLTA I definately feel more confident and enjoy taking the class for PPA cover.

Jack-of-all-Trades · prefect Joined: 19 Mar 2006 Posts: 12969 Location: england

Hi
Yes HLTA is a status not a qualification but it may be made one soon.There is talk of it.However you also need to have experience(at least 5 years recommended) and the HT needs to put you forward for it.So if you are only just doing NVQ Level 3 and haven't much experience they will not consider you.The idea behind it is to reward TA's who have likely been appointed Senior TA and are working at a higher level within the school.You also need to be teaching whole classes on a regular basis.

Jack-of-all-Trades · prefect Joined: 19 Mar 2006 Posts: 12969 Location: england

Apparently the 5 years is only in our county.

madmum · Posted: Sun Jul 05, 2009 12:21 pm Post subject:

Hi!

Its 2 years minimum experience where I am, and the Head has to support yourappliction.

Madmum