Gaining QTLS or ATLS
What are QTLS and ATLS?
Teachers and trainers can gain Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) or Associate Teacher Learning and Skills (ATLS) status by successfully going through Professional Formation, which is:
“the post-qualification process by which a teacher demonstrates through professional practice
- the ability to use effectively the skills and knowledge acquired whilst trainingto be a teacher;
- and the capacity to meet the occupational standards required of a teacher.”
Source: FE Teachers Qualifications Regulations (external website opens in new window)
In this section of the website you can find more information, resources and guidance to help you achieve QTLS or ATLS status through Professional Formation.
Am I required to undertake Professional Formation?
Please refer to the table below to find out if you are required to undertake Professional Formation as part of the new September 2007 regulations.
|
Date of employment as teacher |
Before September 2007 |
From September 2007 onwards |
|
Licensed Practitioner Requirements |
Not required but encouraged as a demonstration of currency of teaching practice |
Associate Teacher: Associate Teacher Learning and Skills (ATLS) for those with a level 3 or 4 qualification. Full Teacher: Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) for those with a level 5 qualification. |
Essentially, all teachers that have had their first teaching position within the sector since September 2007 are required to undertake and complete Professional Formation within 5 years of their first appointment.
Teachers who were employed in the sector before September 2007 are not required to achieve QTLS or ATLS, but are encouraged to do so as a demonstration of the currency of their teaching practice.
What if I already hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from the compulsory education sector?
The regulations recognise that those who come to work in further education and skills holding QTS status meet the qualification requirements, but will benefit from early continuing professional development (CPD) to familiarise themselves with the lifelong learning sector. Please click here for a copy of the 'Orientation Guidance for Qualified Teachers Entering Further Education’.
Those coming to work in further education and skills with QTS have to complete Professional Formation and gain QTLS status within two years of taking up a teaching position (post-September 2007). When you undertake Professional Formation, the IfL will verify whether this familiarisation process has taken place or not, during the assessment of your portfolio.
Click the relevant links below for more information on gaining QTLS and ATLS.