Ultimate Guide to the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) in the UK
If you want to teach adults, deliver workplace training, or step into further education, you need the right qualification. The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) is often the first step into the UK teaching and training sector. Whether you are an industry professional, assessor, or aspiring lecturer, this qualification opens the door to teaching opportunities across colleges, private training providers, and workplaces.
In this guide, you’ll learn what the course involves, who it suits, entry requirements, career outcomes, and how to get started.
What Is the Level 3 Award in Education and Training?
The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) is an entry-level teaching qualification designed for individuals who want to teach or train in the post-16 sector in the UK. It replaced the old PTLLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector) qualification.
The course provides foundational knowledge of:
Teaching roles and responsibilities
Planning and delivering inclusive lessons
Assessment methods
Classroom management
Safeguarding and equality in education
It is regulated by awarding organisations such as:
City & Guilds
NCFE
TQUK
Highfield Qualifications
This ensures the qualification meets national standards and is widely recognised across the UK.
Who Is the AET Qualification For?
The AET is suitable for:
Industry professionals who want to teach their specialism
Workplace trainers delivering in-house training
Assessors moving into teaching roles
Individuals planning a career in further education
Freelance trainers and consultants
You do not need previous teaching experience to enrol. Many learners complete the qualification while working full-time in their industry.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements are straightforward and accessible:
Minimum age: 19 years
Good level of English (reading, writing, and speaking)
Subject knowledge in the area you intend to teach
You do not need a degree to complete the AET. However, you must have sufficient expertise in the subject you plan to deliver.
Course Structure and Units
The qualification typically consists of three mandatory units:
Understanding Roles, Responsibilities and Relationships in Education and Training
Understanding and Using Inclusive Teaching and Learning Approaches
Understanding Assessment in Education and Training
You will also plan and deliver a short micro-teach session (usually 15–30 minutes) and evaluate your performance.
The course usually takes:
3–5 days in classroom settings, or
4–12 weeks online, depending on the provider
Assessment methods include:
Written assignments
Lesson planning
Observed micro-teaching
Reflective accounts
Why Choose the Level 3 Award in Education and Training Qualification UK?
The Level 3 Award in Education and Training qualification in the UK is highly respected and widely accepted across the further education and training sectors. It provides structured preparation for teaching adults and ensures you understand professional standards.
Key benefits include:
Nationally recognised qualification
Flexible study options (online or classroom-based)
No requirement for teaching placement
Enhances employability
Pathway to higher teaching qualifications
Many employers require this qualification before allowing trainers to deliver accredited courses.
Career Opportunities After AET
Once qualified, you can apply for roles such as:
Further education lecturer (entry-level)
Adult education tutor
Workplace trainer
Private training provider instructor
Assessor with teaching responsibilities
Common workplaces include:
Further education colleges
Private training academies
Apprenticeship providers
Corporate training departments
Community learning centres
Although the AET qualifies you to teach, some employers may request additional experience or progression to a Level 4 or Level 5 teaching qualification.
Progression Routes
After completing the AET, you can progress to:
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training (CET)
Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET)
The Level 5 Diploma is equivalent to a full teaching qualification for the post-16 sector and may lead to QTLS (Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills) status.
Progression improves your career prospects, salary potential, and teaching responsibilities.
Online vs Classroom Study
You can complete the AET through:
Online Learning
Flexible study schedule
Suitable for working professionals
Lower travel costs
Self-paced learning
Classroom-Based Learning
Face-to-face interaction
Immediate tutor feedback
Structured timetable
Peer collaboration
Choose a format that fits your learning style and work commitments.
How Much Does the Course Cost?
Course fees typically range between £150 and £500, depending on:
The awarding body
Study format (online or classroom)
Provider reputation
Support and resources included
Some employers may fund your qualification if it supports your job role.
Is the AET a Teaching Licence?
The AET allows you to teach in post-16 education, but it is not a QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) qualification for schools. It prepares you for adult learning environments, vocational education, and workplace training.
Many professionals use the UK Level 3 Award in Education and Training as their first step into teaching before progressing further.
Key Skills You Develop
During the course, you develop essential teaching skills, including:
Lesson planning
Inclusive teaching strategies
Communication and presentation
Assessment and feedback techniques
Classroom management
Professional reflection
These skills strengthen your confidence and credibility as a trainer or tutor.
Conclusion
The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) is the ideal starting point for anyone who wants to teach or train adults in the UK. It provides practical teaching knowledge, recognised certification, and a clear progression pathway into further education.
Whether you are an industry specialist, assessor, or career changer, this qualification equips you with the professional foundation required to deliver effective, inclusive, and structured learning.
If you are ready to move into teaching, the AET offers a flexible and respected route to begin your journey.
FAQs
1. How long does the AET course take?
Most learners complete it within 3–5 days in class or 4–12 weeks online.
2. Do I need teaching experience before enrolling?
No. The qualification is designed for beginners with no prior teaching experience.
3. Can I teach in schools with AET?
No. The AET qualifies you to teach in post-16 and adult education settings, not primary or secondary schools.
4. Is the AET recognised in the UK?
Yes. It is regulated and awarded by recognised UK awarding organisations.
5. What qualification should I take after AET?
You can progress to the Level 4 Certificate or Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training.