Diploma to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS)

Teacher Education

What does the course include?

If you are going to be 24 or older at the start of this course, you could be be entitled to an Advaned Learning Loan which will cover your tuition fees. Please click here for more information.

DTLLS is a two year part time programme for teachers/lecturers in the Lifelong Learning Sector and has been developed by Canterbury Christchurch University. It is designed to enable those teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector to gain a recognised teacher qualification to meet the LLUK/LSIS
standards. The programme aims to develop the knowledge, skills and understanding of teachers in the Lifelong Learning Sector which includes those who teach in Further Education Colleges (FE), Adult and Community Learning (ACL), 14-19 units in Schools and Academies, Public Services e.g. Police Trainers, and Private Training Organisations.

This programme is for students prepared to study at university level; it is not a practical skills-based programme. Students will explore topics in the following areas:
In the first year:

• Introduction to Learning and Teaching
• Planning and Assessing
• Theory in Professional Practice

In the second year:

• Professional Development
• Curriculum Studies
• Professional Investigation

The part time Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS/PGCE) is taught over a two year period. Over this time students will gain 120 credits; studying 60 credits each year.

In the second year of the programme if you already hold a degree, you can choose to take the Professional Graduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) but you need to apply for this.

What do I need to get on this course?

You will need to have a minimum of 75 hours teaching hours per each year of the programme. You will also need to have GCSE Maths and English or equivalent. You may be asked to complete an initial assessment demonstrate Level 2/3 literacy skills. You will also attend an interview with the programme leader.
If you are not currently teaching a PTLLS stand alone programme would be appropriate for you.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment will be through a variety of methods including: essay writing; micro-teach; reflections; lesson evaluations, supervised teaching experiences, professional developmental planner, etc. Assessment is completed by your lecturers, through peer review and personal self-reflection. There are no timed examinations.

Where does it lead?

If you successfully complete the Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector then you may choose to progress to the BA Honors in Post Compulsory Education and Training.