What is a contact hour?
A contact hour is any part of a course where the teacher and student are learning together in live, real-time interaction. This can happen in person or through live online teaching.
Why This Matters
Contact hours are a core part of accredited training. They make sure students receive direct teaching, real-time feedback, and active support throughout the course. They also help maintain the quality and integrity of teacher training.
What This Means for You
- Contact hours only count when teaching happens live
- Contact hours can be completed in person or through live online sessions
- Breaks do not count as contact hours
- Pre-recorded or self-paced learning does not count as contact hours
- Every student must complete the minimum number of contact hours for their course
- If a student misses contact hours, the lead teacher must arrange a catch-up
- Catch-up hours may involve an additional cost for the student
- If a student does not complete all required contact hours, they may fail the course
What You Need to Do
- Check how many contact hours your course requires
- Make sure all live sessions are attended in full
- Do not count breaks as part of your contact hours
- Only include hours taught in person or through live streaming
- If any hours are missed, arrange with the lead teacher to make them up