The Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS) award is an introductory qualification for people aiming to teach, tutor or train in the further education sector. This sector includes those wishing to work in adult and community learning, work-based learning, as well as teach in further education colleges.

The PTLLS award helps new teachers, tutors and trainers to develop the skills and understanding required for teaching in the further education sector in England. It leads towards further teaching qualifications for either an Associate Teacher Learning and Skills Status or Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills Status.

PTLLS can be delivered in a variety of ways - for example as a one-week course, as day-release or part-time over several weeks. You can find out what options are available to you by contacting your local college or learning provider. The course lasts approximately 60 hours, half of which time is spent with a tutor and the other half on self-study. As part of the course, you will also be asked to practice your new teaching skills with your peers.

Entry Requirements

If you have a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) at Level 3 or equivalent in your subject area and relevant work experience in your vocational or technical area, you can apply. If you're not sure, we can assess your qualification and advise you if it is equivalent to NVQ Level 3. You could be invited for an interview at your local college or learning provider and you may also be asked to provide a satisfactory reference, depending on the college or learning provider's requirements.

Learning Methods

This course uses the latest teaching and learning techniques - undertaken through a variety of lectures, seminars, group work, research, workshops and assignments.

Costs and Funding

Currently, when undertaken through the Pass on Your Skills initiative, the PTLLS course is free of charge.

Assessment

Assessment of this course takes place in the form of continuous assessment, observations, assignment work and micro-teaching observations.

Progression

Successful completion of the course means you will be eligible to progress on to the Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS) or the Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS), depending on your type of teaching role.

Career Prospects

What next? Once you've gained your PTLLS award, you are qualified to start teaching appropriate publicly funded courses in a further education college, the adult and community learning environment or for work-based learning organisations.