FE Reforms - I already teach but need some clarification
From 1 Sept 07 teachers entering the lifelong learning sector with qualified teacher status (QTS) for schools continue to be recognised as being qualified to teach in further education.
The new regulations require teachers with QTS to gain the new professional status for the Lifelong Learning Sector, Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) or Associate Teacher Learning and Skills (ATLS), within two years of appointment to post.
Two new teaching roles have been defined in the lifelong learning sector - these are the Full Teacher and Associate Teacher roles. Those working in the Full Teacher role carry out the full range of teaching responsibilities and are required to gain QTLS status. Associate Teachers do not have the full range of teaching responsibilities - for example they may not develop their own teaching materials but may teach using pre-prepared packs - and need to gain ATLS status.
To gain QTLS or ATLS, QTS holders need to:
1) Register with the Institute for Learning, the professional body for teachers in the lifelong learning sector and commit to up to 30 hrs of continuing professional development (CPD) each year, depending upon teaching hours.
2) Complete a CPD process which involves familiarising themselves with the lifelong learning sector. This process could be offered as part of an induction - alternatively, awarding bodies may develop accredited modules if FE colleges request it. Either way, it will be offered once someone is in post. You can see guidance about this process here. When a candidate applies for ATLS or QTLS, the IfL will verify whether this familiarisation process has taken place or not, during the assessment of a candidate's professional formation.
3) Complete a period of professional formation and submit a portfolio to evidence professional practice - you can find out more on the 'Professional Formation' area of the IfL website here
Click on the link for info on GPRLS
This flow diagram sets out qualification routes.
