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Lianne used her caring nature and a drive to succeed to go from a Learning Support Assistant to an HLTA, growing in confidence and inspiring her pupils every step of the way.
From Support to Leadership
Lianne had always dreamed of being a teacher, but as a busy mum working in education, the opportunity never quite aligned. That was until she took the step to become a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA), supported by her course with the Association of Learning.
“I absolutely love it,” she says of her new role. “It’s probably my dream job.”
Previously working as a Learning Support Assistant (LSA), Lianne’s mornings are now dedicated to supporting small groups of pupils who need extra support, while her afternoons are spent teaching entire classes across Years 3 to 6. It’s a schedule that reflects both her versatility and the school’s confidence in her: “I cover PPA (planning, preparation and assessment) every afternoon, and I help cover teacher absences as well. It’s me and one other who split that between us.”
Gaining Confidence and Gaining Ground
While Lianne had classroom experience, she credits the HLTA course with giving her the self-belief she needed to take the next step.
“I’m quite an anxious person,” she admits. “But the confidence I’ve gained from the course has been absolutely fantastic. I’d recommend it to anyone. I’ve learned so much.”
Lianne’ professional growth hasn’t gone unnoticed. Since becoming an HLTA, she’s been entrusted with additional responsibilities, including stepping in for the school’s pastoral manager when needed.
“I really enjoy that side of it too,” she explains. “Helping children who are struggling, dealing with absences, changing timetables, being trusted to take that on has meant a lot.”
Building Relationships, Shaping Progress
For Lianne, one of the most rewarding aspects of her new role is the connection she maintains with her pupils. Working across all year groups in a small school, she has built strong relationships with nearly every child.
“I know all their traits, their triggers, what motivates them. I love that they can come up to me and talk about what they did at the weekend and I actually know who they are.”
It’s a personal touch that makes a big difference in the classroom. Because she spent time as an LSA, she knows exactly which children need extra support and which ones are ready to be stretched. “That’s really helped me with differentiation,” she says. “It’s made the teaching side feel more natural.”
A Nurturing Presence with Big Aspirations
When asked about the future, Lianne says she’s found her calling.
“I absolutely love the pastoral side of things. That’s my baby,” she says warmly. “I think because I’m quite a nurturing and motherly person at school, the children tend to gravitate towards me if they have a problem.”
Though she’s open to exploring more in the pastoral space, Lianne is clearly content in a role that allows her to support, teach, and care for the whole child.
Advice for Aspiring HLTAs
For anyone thinking of following a similar path, Lianne’s advice is simple: go for it.
She was first introduced to the course through a friend and has already recommended it to someone else looking to sign up in the new year.
“I’d one hundred percent recommend the Association of Learning. It gave me the confidence I didn’t know I needed and it helped me do exactly what I wanted to do.”
Ready to Make a Change?
Lianne’s story is a great reminder that career progression doesn’t always require a big leap. Sometimes it’s the right step, at the right time, with the right support.
If you’re ready to grow in your school role, the Level 4 Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) course from the Association of Learning could be the perfect next step.
0333 344 2126