Professional Development Qualifications

An overview of the new qualification requirements for teaching in the lifelong learning sector

In September 2007 new qualification requirements were introduced for teaching in the lifelong learning sector (LLS). The qualification route required will depend on the teaching role. Two teaching roles have been defined: associate teaching role and full teaching role. The associate role is described as having fewer teaching responsibilities than a full teaching role. All teachers of literacy, numeracy or ESOL are defined as having a full teaching role.

All new teachers will have an introductory programme which will give them a threshold license to teach. This is an accredited Level 3 or 4 Award in Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS). This will equip them with the minimum skills and knowledge they need to start teaching.

For most people working towards a full teaching qualification this will form the first part of their initial teacher training programme.This introductory programme may be a separate award, or may be integrated into the larger teacher training programme. If awarded separately, it leads to the Award in Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS) at Level 3 or 4 on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF).

Full teaching qualification programmes cover the PTTLS requirements as part of the course. These qualifications are: Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS); PGCE or Certificate in Education.

The qualification for the associate teaching role is the Level 3 / 4 Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS). These programmes include the PTLLS at the start of the course and are suitable for teachers with fewer responsibilities than those in a full teaching role.