Level 3 Award in Education and Training: Your First Step into Teaching
If you’re thinking about becoming a teacher, trainer, or instructor in adult education, the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) is often the ideal place to start. Whether you want to teach in a college, deliver workplace training, or run your own courses, this qualification gives you the foundation to begin your journey with confidence.
What is the Level 3 AET?
The Level 3 Award in Education and Training is an entry-level teaching qualification in the UK. It replaced the older PTLLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector) and is designed for individuals who are new to teaching or currently working in a training role without formal certification.
You don’t need prior teaching experience to enrol, making it accessible for career changers, professionals, and subject specialists who want to share their knowledge.
Who is it for?
This course is suitable for a wide range of people, including:
- Aspiring teachers or trainers
- Industry professionals looking to deliver training
- Assessors who want to move into teaching
- Individuals already teaching without a formal qualification
If you have expertise in a subject—whether it’s business, construction, health and social care, or English—you can use this qualification as a stepping stone into education.
What will you learn?
The course focuses on the fundamentals of teaching and learning. Key topics typically include:
- Roles and responsibilities of a teacher or trainer
- Planning and delivering inclusive lessons
- Understanding different learning styles
- Classroom management techniques
- Assessment methods and feedback
- Creating a positive learning environment
You’ll also usually complete a micro-teaching session, where you plan and deliver a short lesson to your peers. This is a great opportunity to practice your skills in a supportive setting.
How is it assessed?
Assessment is generally coursework-based, meaning there are no formal exams. You may be required to:
- Write assignments
- Create lesson plans
- Deliver a short teaching session
- Reflect on your teaching practice
This practical approach helps you build real teaching skills rather than just theoretical knowledge.
How long does it take?
The course is flexible and can often be completed in a few weeks to a few months, depending on the provider and study mode. Many centres offer:
- Classroom-based learning
- Online or blended courses
- Weekend or evening options
This flexibility makes it easier to fit around work or other commitments.
What can you do after completing it?
Once you’ve achieved the Level 3 AET, you can start teaching in a variety of settings, such as:
- Further education colleges
- Adult learning centres
- Private training providers
- Workplace training environments
While it allows you to begin teaching, many learners choose to progress to higher qualifications like the Level 4 Certificate or Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training to advance their careers.
Why choose this qualification?
The Level 3 AET is popular because it:
- Requires no prior teaching experience
- Is widely recognised across the UK
- Provides practical, hands-on teaching skills
- Opens the door to a rewarding career in education
It’s a great way to test whether teaching is the right path for you while gaining a valuable and respected qualification.
