The Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS) Course has been a significant qualification for educators and trainers in the UK for several years. Recently, the course has been replaced by the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET), which has caused confusion among aspiring teachers and trainers. Many are asking questions like, “Is PTLLS still valid?” and “Is the Level 3 AET course the same as PTLLS?”. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between the PTLLS course and the Level 3 AET and answer some of the most frequently asked questions to provide clarity to individuals interested in pursuing a career in teaching or training.
1. What is PTLLS?
PTLLS is a teaching qualification that is aimed at individuals who are interested in teaching in the lifelong learning sector. The qualification is designed to provide learners with an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a teacher, the teaching and learning process, and the assessment of learners. It was introduced in 2007 as a replacement for the old teaching qualification, the Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS).
2. The history of PTLLS:
The roots of PTLLS can be traced back to the establishment of the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) in 2005. LSIS was created to provide support and guidance to the further education and skills sector in the UK. One of the key areas that LSIS focused on was the development of teacher training qualifications.
In 2007, the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) introduced PTLLS as a new teaching qualification. The qualification was designed to replace the CTLLS and was aimed at individuals who were new to teaching in the lifelong learning sector.
Over the years, PTLLS has undergone several updates and changes. In 2011, the QCA was replaced by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual), which took over the responsibility of regulating qualifications in England. Ofqual introduced a new set of regulations for PTLLS, which required learners to complete a minimum of 30 hours of teaching practice.
3. Is PTLLS still relevant today?
There are arguments for both sides of the debate on whether PTLLS is still relevant today. Those who believe that PTLLS is still valuable argue that it provides learners with a solid foundation in teaching and learning. It equips them with the knowledge and skills they need to become effective teachers. Additionally, PTLLS is recognized by employers in the lifelong learning sector and is often a requirement for teaching roles.
On the other hand, those who think PTLLS is outdated argue that it does not adequately prepare learners for the challenges of teaching in today’s world. They argue that the qualification does not take into account the impact of technology on teaching and learning and does not provide learners with the necessary skills to teach in diverse and inclusive environments.
Research studies have shown that completing PTLLS can have a positive impact on learners’ confidence and job prospects. A survey conducted by the Association of Colleges found that 70% of respondents believed that PTLLS had increased their confidence in teaching, and 63% believed that it had improved their job prospects.
4. The benefits of completing PTLLS:
There are several benefits of completing PTLLS. Firstly, it provides learners with a solid foundation in teaching and learning. They learn about the roles and responsibilities of a teacher, the teaching and learning process, and the assessment of learners. This knowledge is essential for anyone who wants to become an effective teacher.
Secondly, completing PTLLS can enhance your career prospects. PTLLS is recognized by employers in the lifelong learning sector and is often a requirement for teaching roles. Having this qualification on your resume can make you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of getting hired.
Thirdly, completing PTLLS can improve your teaching skills. It equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to become an effective teacher. You learn about different teaching methods, how to create effective lesson plans, and how to assess learners. This knowledge can help you become a better teacher and improve your students’ learning outcomes.
5. Other similar qualifications available:
There are other qualifications available in place of (or alongside) PTLLS. One such qualification is the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET). AET is a teaching qualification that is aimed at individuals who are new to teaching in the lifelong learning sector. It covers similar topics to PTLLS, such as the roles and responsibilities of a teacher, the teaching and learning process, and the assessment of learners.
Another qualification is the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training (CET). CET is a teaching qualification that is aimed at individuals who have some teaching experience in the lifelong learning sector. It covers more advanced topics than PTLLS and AET, such as the planning and delivery of inclusive teaching and learning, and the use of technology in teaching and learning.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, PTLLS is still a relevant qualification in today’s world. It provides learners with a solid foundation in teaching and learning, enhances their career prospects, and improves their teaching skills. While there are other qualifications available in place of (or alongside) PTLLS, it remains a recognized and valued qualification in the lifelong learning sector. We hope that this blog post has provided you with a better understanding of PTLLS and its relevance in today’s world. Please share your thoughts and experiences related to this topic in the comments section below.
