How do I qualify as a Skills for Life teacher?

For Skills for Life teachers there are three routes to becoming fully qualified for both a full teaching role and in their subject specialism:

1. Integrated Diploma - which will cover both full teaching and subject specific requirements
2. Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS) and an Additional Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector in Literacy, ESOL or Numeracy
3. Additional Diploma in Teaching Literacy, ESOL or Numeracy in the Lifelong Learning Sector (for those already holding a generic teaching qualification)

Which route you choose will depend on your existing experience and qualifications.

If you would like advice and information on a suitable route, contact the Lifelong Learning UK helpline on 020 7936 5798 or email advice@lluk.org You will also find lots more information on teacher training in the Lifelong Learning sector on the LLUK website at www.lluk.org

Existing teachers
If you have been working as a Skills for Life teacher since before 2001, then you remain exempt from the 2001 teacher qualifications regulations. However you are encouraged to achieve PTLLS and/or DTLLS or to apply for Professional Recognition. There is no requirement for you to gain Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status. However you will need to register with the Institute for Learning for CPD purposes.