TA Job Titles Decoded: TA vs LSA vs SEN TA vs HLTA
TA Job Titles Decoded: TA vs LSA vs SEN TA vs HLTA
Created:Updated: 02-September-2025
“TA”, “LSA”, “1:1”, “Intervention TA”, “HLTA”, “Cover Supervisor” — school adverts use lots of titles that sound similar but carry different expectations. This guide decodes the most common UK job titles, what they typically involve, and which qualification pathways fit each one.
Quick truth first
Titles vary between schools, trusts and local authorities. Always read the duties, phase (EYFS/Primary/Secondary), hours, grade/scale and paid weeks, not just the job title.
Common job titles — at a glance
| Title (common variants) | Typical focus & duties | Good-fit qualification | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teaching Assistant (TA) Classroom Assistant |
General class support; small groups; phonics/reading/maths; routines; resources; behaviour support. | Level 3 Certificate/Diploma in Supporting Teaching & Learning (STL). Level 2 for entry roles. | Most common title in primary; secondary often split by subject/department. |
| Learning Support Assistant (LSA) | Similar to TA but with extra focus on individual learning needs and scaffolding. | Level 3 STL Certificate/Diploma. Consider an SEN emphasis. | In some schools “LSA” implies more targeted support. |
| SEN/SEND Teaching Assistant Inclusion Assistant |
Support pupils with SEND; adapt materials; use plans (EHCPs/IEPs); communication & sensory support; sometimes personal care. | Level 3 STL Certificate/Diploma + optional SEND units. Evidence from SEND placement is valuable. | Check if personal care/manual handling is required; training often provided. |
| 1:1 Teaching Assistant One-to-One Support |
Dedicated to one pupil (often with an EHCP); in-class support; transitions; de-escalation; record-keeping. | Level 3 STL Certificate/Diploma. Behaviour/SEND CPD helpful. | Contract may be linked to pupil funding; ask about continuity if the pupil moves. |
| Intervention TA Academic Mentor |
Deliver structured catch-up (phonics, reading, maths) to individuals/small groups; data tracking. | Level 3 STL Certificate/Diploma. Evidence of leading interventions. | Often requires confident delivery and progress recording. |
| Behaviour Mentor Pastoral Support Worker |
Behaviour plans; de-escalation; restorative conversations; safe spaces; liaison with pastoral/SEN teams. | Level 3 STL Certificate/Diploma + behaviour/inclusion CPD. Experience valued. | May include break/lunchtime duty; sometimes alternative provision. |
| Cover Supervisor | Supervise classes in a teacher’s absence; deliver set work; manage behaviour; no planning/marking. | Level 3 STL Certificate/Diploma; strong behaviour skills; pathway toward HLTA. | More “front-of-class” than typical TA; advertised at higher grades in some schools. |
| HLTA (Higher Level Teaching Assistant) | Lead learning segments; plan/adapt under teacher guidance; assess routine progress; occasional class cover. | Level 4 HLTA (after solid Level 3). Evidence of leading learning required. | Usually higher grade; clear step-up in responsibility. |
| Apprentice TA | Paid training role leading to a recognised qualification with in-school mentoring. | Follows an approved apprenticeship standard (plus functional skills if needed). | Competitive; check hours, pay and study release time. |
| EYFS Practitioner / Nursery TA | Early Years focus; play-based learning; observations; communication & language; toileting/personal care. | Level 3 STL or Early Years-specific quals. EYFS evidence recommended. | Check ratios and room responsibilities. |
| EAL TA (English as an Additional Language) | Language scaffolding; vocabulary; dual-coding/visuals; family liaison. | Level 3 STL Certificate/Diploma; EAL CPD useful. | Often combined with general TA duties. |
Which title fits you right now?
- New to schools: “Teaching Assistant” or “LSA” roles with a supportive team are ideal first steps.
- Confident with small groups: “Intervention TA” roles let you lead short programmes and track progress.
- Experienced and ready to step up: aim for “Cover Supervisor” or HLTA after strong Level 3 evidence.
- Passionate about inclusion: “SEN/1:1 TA” and “Behaviour Mentor” roles value empathy, consistency and calm.
Reading a job advert like a pro
- Phase & class model: EYFS/KS1/KS2 or secondary; class-based vs roaming/intervention.
- 1:1 or general support: if 1:1, check EHCP needs, personal care and continuity.
- Hours & paid weeks: see Term-Time Only explained.
- Grade/scale & responsibilities: interventions, cover, data tracking, behaviour duties.
- Essential quals: many prefer Level 3 STL Certificate/Diploma; some accept Level 2 for entry with progression.
Qualification routes that keep doors open
- Default: Level 3 Certificate/Diploma in Supporting Teaching & Learning — fully qualifies you as a TA with in-school evidence.
- Fallback: Level 3 Award (knowledge-only) if you can’t access a placement yet; upgrade later when in post.
- Progression: Level 4 HLTA once you can evidence leading learning.
Useful Guides & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an LSA the same as a TA?
Often, yes — many schools use the titles interchangeably. Some use “LSA” to emphasise targeted learning support. Read the duties to see the real difference.
What’s the difference between a 1:1 TA and a general TA?
A 1:1 TA is usually assigned to one pupil (often with an EHCP) and may have duties like personal care or specific interventions. A general TA supports the whole class or groups across the day.
Is a Cover Supervisor a TA?
Not exactly. Cover Supervisors lead a class in a teacher’s absence using set work. It’s more front-of-class and often on a higher grade than many TA roles.
What does HLTA actually mean?
Higher Level Teaching Assistants lead learning segments, plan/adapt under teacher guidance and may provide class cover. It’s typically a progression from Level 3 to Level 4 (HLTA) with stronger evidence of independence.
Which qualification should I choose if adverts list mixed titles?
The safest, most flexible route is the Level 3 Certificate/Diploma in Supporting Teaching & Learning (with placement). It’s recognised across titles and phases. Use the Award only as a short-term fallback if you can’t access a school yet.