Target audience

The OCR Level 3 and 4 Awards in Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector are introductory qualifications for all new teachers. From September 2007 all new teachers must gain this Initial Licence to Practice at the start of their career.

This qualification provides a basic minimum standard for all those entering the profession. The qualification involves initial assessment of literacy, numeracy and ICT needs, 60 hours of learning in total,observed practice and confers threshold status to teach upon successful completion.

The OCR Level 3/4 Certificates in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector are aimed at teachers who work in an Associate Teacher role. LLUK define an associate Teacher as someone who teaches predominantly in at least one of the following ways, regardless of the amount of teaching undertaken:

• from packs/pre-prepared materials, and therefore has fewer responsibilities in design of curriculum and materials generally
• on a one to one basis
• a programme confined to  a particular level/ subject/ type of learner (i.e. does not develop or deliver a full range across a curriculum area)
• short courses

 These qualifications lead to and are one element of ATLS status.