Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET)

Name: Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET)
Price: 269.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

Start Your Teaching Career in Further Education, Adult Learning, and Vocational Training Today

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Course length: ~6-10 weeks

Lifetime access to course materials
Expert tutor support
Flexible study schedule
Official certification upon completion
Career guidance and resources

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Overview Learning Details Structure FAQs Demo

Course overview

The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) stands as the essential foundation for individuals aspiring to enter the teaching profession or for current trainers aiming to formalise and enhance their expertise. This Ofqual-regulated qualification provides robust training in contemporary teaching methodologies, inclusive practices, and effective assessment strategies. Learners benefit from flexible online study options and the guidance of experienced tutors, ensuring both accessibility and high-quality support throughout the programme.

Why this qualification

The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (formerly PTLLS) serves as a critical entry qualification for individuals pursuing a career in teaching or training within further education, adult learning, or vocational sectors. Whether working in FE colleges, private training providers, or workplace learning environments, this certification empowers educators to deliver instruction with confidence and competence.

Course Structure

Develop the knowledge, skills and understanding to begin your journey as a confident and effective teacher: •Understand the Roles and Responsibilities of Teachers within Education and Training, including the Regulatory and Legal Requirements that must be adhered to •Understand Ways to Maintain a Safe and Supportive Learning Environment, including the Importance of promoting Appropriate Behaviour and Respect for Others •Understand Ways to Promote Equality and Valuing Diversity, including How Teaching and Learning Resources can be used to Support This •Understand the Importance of Working with Other Professionals within Education and Training, including the Boundaries between the Teaching Role and Other Professional Roles

Begin to learn the foundations of inclusive teaching and learning and how to apply these in real-life practices: •Understand the Concept of Inclusive Teaching and Learning, including the Benefits of this Approach for Learners •Understand Ways to Engage and Motivate Learners, including Ways to Agree Ground Rules with Learners •Understand how to Apply Teaching and Learning Approaches to meet Individual Learner Needs, considering Relevant Models & Theories and embedding Core Skills •Plan and Deliver an Inclusive Teaching and Learning Session using Selected Approaches; Resources; Communication Styles; Assessment Methods and Constructive Feedback to meet Individual Learner Needs •Identify Strengths and Development Areas within your Teaching Practices to create an Action Plan

Develop a comprehensive understanding of how assessments can be used within Education and Training: •Understand the Purposes of Assessment in Education and Training •Understand the Role of Peer and Self-Assessment in the Assessment Process •Understand how Different Assessment Methods can be Adapted to Meet Individual Learner Needs •Understand the Key Features of Constructive Feedback and how this can support Learner Progression •Understand the Need to Keep Records of Assessment of Learning and the Requirements for Keeping These within an Organisation

Qualification Specifications

Awarding Body

Focus Awards

Credits

Regulatory Number

601/6099/8

Regulation

Focus Awards Regulated by Ofqual

Qualification Level

Level 3

Study Method

Remote Online Learning

Assessment

Written Assignments, Portfolio of Work, Microteaching Practice

Market Demand & Salary Progression

Real-world impact and earning potential

The Education and Training Sector at a Glance:

Across England and Wales, the further education sector currently supports an impressive ¹1.83 million students, highlighting the scale and importance of its provision. In the 2023–24 academic year alone, there were ²339,600 apprenticeship starts, all of which depend on the expertise of qualified trainers to ensure high-quality delivery.

Additionally, there is an increasing emphasis on adult education and upskilling initiatives, reflecting the evolving needs of both individuals and the workforce. This environment is further shaped by ongoing workforce shortages throughout the further education and training sectors, underscoring the urgent demand for skilled professionals capable of meeting these challenges.

Where Qualified Teachers and Trainers Are Needed Most:

Further education colleges continue to grapple with persistent recruitment challenges, particularly as vacancies for teaching staff rise. There is a ³notable and ongoing demand for vocational subject specialists, especially in disciplines such as construction, engineering, healthcare, business, and digital skills, reflecting the sector's evolving priorities.

Within the private training provider landscape, over ⁴1,500 registered organisations are actively engaged in delivering apprenticeships and vocational qualifications. These providers consistently seek trainers who hold Level 3 Education and Training qualifications, recognising the importance of formally qualified staff to maintain high standards across all subject areas. Apprenticeship delivery remains a cornerstone of workforce development ⁵necessitating the expertise of skilled trainers. These professionals play a key role in facilitating off-the-job training, classroom-based instruction, and blended learning programmes spanning fields such as construction, healthcare, business administration, engineering, and hospitality.

Meanwhile, the corporate sector is ⁵increasingly prioritising employee development, presenting further opportunities for trainers to deliver targeted technical skills, compliance training, leadership development, and professional qualifications that support continued organisational growth and compliance.

Clear Salary Progression:

⁶Teaching and training positions typically offer annual salaries ranging from £21,000 to £44,000. Those entering the profession as unqualified teachers can expect to earn between £21,021 and £25,366 per year. Upon gaining qualified teacher status, salaries increase to a band of £26,090 up to £39,347, reflecting the enhanced expertise and responsibilities. With further experience and progression, teachers can achieve salaries between £39,347 and £44,278, demonstrating a clearly structured pathway for career advancement and remuneration within the sector.

Employability & Career Support

PlatoForm goes beyond training. We help our learners connect with real teaching and training opportunities after qualification.

Once you complete your qualification, our dedicated learner support team will guide you toward suitable teaching and training opportunities should you wish. Our network linking with FE colleges, training providers, apprenticeship organisations, and employers across multiple sectors can help you to find the right fit. Ranging from CV Guidance, Employer Introductions and Job Alerts, we ensure you have the tools and connections to move confidently into a teaching or training role.

Entry Requirements & Suitability

The Level 3 Award in Education and Training is accessible to anyone wishing to become a qualified teacher or trainer, and there are no formal entry requirements to enrol on this qualification. The AET can be completed at different levels of experience, whether you are completely new to teaching or have been delivering training and wish to gain formal accreditation.

Entry Requirements:

Minimum Age: 18+

Practical Components: You will need to deliver a microteaching session (15 minutes minimum) with real or simulated learners. This can be arranged with colleagues, friends, family members, or within your workplace/training setting. You will also need to complete additional time microteaching or observation of another microteaching session (45 minutes minimum).

Alternative Courses

For individuals seeking alternatives to the Level 3 Award in Education and Training, there are several tailored pathways available depending on your professional aspirations. Those who wish to pursue full teaching positions may opt for the Focus Awards Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training (RQF). These qualifications are designed to provide robust preparation for the demands of advanced teaching roles within the education and training sector.

If your career objective involves a blend of teaching and assessment responsibilities, you could consider qualifications such as the Focus Awards Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA), the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement (AVRA), or the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Assessing Competence in the Work Environment (ACWE). These programmes equip professionals with the essential skills and expertise to undertake effective assessment practices in a variety of vocational settings.

Alternatively, for those aiming to specialise in Internal Quality Assurance, the Focus Awards Level 4 Award in Understanding the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practices (RQF), as well as the Focus Awards Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practices (RQF), offer valuable opportunities to develop a thorough understanding of quality assurance procedures, supporting excellence in educational and training environments.

Progression Routes

For individuals aiming to progress into full teaching positions, pursuing further qualifications such as the Focus Awards Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training (RQF) is highly recommended. These programmes are designed to provide comprehensive preparation for the responsibilities and challenges associated with advanced teaching roles.

Those interested in combining teaching with assessment responsibilities may wish to consider the Focus Awards Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA), the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement (AVRA), or the Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Assessing Competence in the Work Environment (ACWE). These qualifications enable professionals to develop the expertise required for effective assessment within various vocational contexts.

For candidates seeking to move into Internal Quality Assurance roles, the Focus Awards Level 4 Award in Understanding the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practices (RQF), as well as the Focus Awards Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practices (RQF), offer valuable opportunities to build essential knowledge and skills in quality assurance procedures within educational and training environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (formerly known as PTLLS: Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector) is an introductory teaching qualification. It provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to start teaching or training in further education, adult learning, or vocational training settings.

No prior teaching experience is required. The AET is designed for complete beginners as well as those with informal teaching experience who want formal qualification. The course includes practical microteaching where you'll develop your teaching skills in a supportive environment. There are no formal entry requirements for the Level 3 AET. However, you should have good literacy skills (as you'll complete written assignments) and be competent in the subject you plan to teach. If you want to teach academic subjects, having relevant qualifications or experience in that subject is important. For vocational subjects, appropriate vocational qualifications and work experience are expected.

Microteaching is a short teaching session where you demonstrate your teaching skills in practice. You can deliver your microteaching to real learners, colleagues, friends, or family members; anyone willing to participate as learners for your session. Many learners teach their colleagues, arrange sessions with community groups, or use friends and family. You'll record this session and submit it as evidence.

The Level 3 AET qualifies you for associate or hourly-paid teaching roles in FE colleges, often delivering a limited teaching timetable. For full-time substantive teaching positions, most FE colleges require the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training or higher. However, the AET is an excellent starting point and allows you to begin teaching while progressing to higher qualifications.

Related Courses

Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA)

Level 3 Award in Assessing Occupational Competence in the Work Environment (ACWE)

Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement (AVRA)

View All Education & Training Courses

Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET)

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Regulated Awarding Body

Career Kickstart in 3 Steps

Choose Your Path

Learn with a Mentor

Get Certified Fast

Engineered for Growth

World-Class Support

98% Pass Standard

Assessment Copilot

Exclusive Access

World-Class Support

Assessment Copilot

98% Pass Standard

Exclusive Access

Speed Match Promise

Course overview

Why this qualification

Course Structure

Understanding Roles, Responsibilities, and Relationships in Education and Training

Understanding and Using Inclusive Teaching and Learning Approaches in Education and Training

Understanding Assessment within Education and Training

Qualification Specifications

Market Demand & Salary Progression

Employability & Career Support

Entry Requirements & Suitability

Alternative Courses

Progression Routes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Level 3 Award in Education and Training?

Do I need teaching experience or specific qualifications to enrol on the AET?

What is microteaching and who can I teach?

Can I work as a teacher in FE colleges with just the Level 3 AET?

Related Courses

Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA)

Level 3 Award in Assessing Occupational Competence in the Work Environment (ACWE)

Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement (AVRA)

Sources & References