FAQs (FE Reforms)
"I've been a college lecturer since 2004 but only hold a Level 4 FE teaching certificate (FETC) Stages 1,2 and 3. Now there's a requirement for a level 5 qualification so I'm no longer fully qualified".
Because you fully met the requirements of the 2001 regulations to hold a level 4 Initial Teacher Training qualification then you remain fully qualified despite the changes in 2007. This also applies to holders of a PGCE/CertEd gained before 2007.
Similarly, if you gained Stages 1 and 2 of the Level 4 FETC because you were in a designated part time role and since 2007 have become full time, then you are still considered to be fully qualified.
"Is it OK to start by doing the Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS) and then progress to the Diploma (DTLLS) ?"
The CTLLS is not a stepping stone to the DTLLS. The two qualifications relate to two different roles. The CTLLS is for those working as an Associate Teacher. The DTLLS is for those working as a Full Teacher. Indeed, the CTLLS does not cover the same ground as the first year of the DTLLS - not least because it's a much shorter qualification. CTLLS is a 24 credit course requiring only 30 hours of teaching practice, whereas DTLLS Year One is a 60 credit programme involving around 75 hours of teaching practice. If you were to progress from CTLLS to year 2 DTLLS, you would have to catch up a large amount of work not covered.
"If I'm not qualified by 2010, will I lose my job?"
The commitment of the previous government to achieve a fully qualified workforce was a target. There is not a direct link between the regulations and your conditions of service.
"I've gained my DTLLS, so I have achieved QTLS"
The holder of a qualification will have to complete a process of professional formation before being considered for a professional status. The process is not intended to be onerous, however, and can be completed once the practitioner holds a teaching post.
