Understanding the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET)

The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) is widely recognised across the UK as the foundational entry-level qualification for individuals looking to teach, train, or instruct adults. Siting on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) at Level 3, this qualification replaced older credentials like PTLLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector). It is designed for subject matter experts, industry professionals, and career changers who want to transition into post-16 education, further education (FE), or workplace training environments.

Regulated by bodies such as Ofqual, the qualification comprises 12 credits with a total of 48 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) and an overall Total Qualification Time (TQT) of roughly 120 hours, incorporating independent study and assignment preparation. Crucially, candidates do not need to be actively employed in a teaching role to enrol, making it an accessible stepping stone for aspiring educators.

Core Unit Structure and Curriculum

The standard Ofqual-regulated AET curriculum is built around three core units that blend educational theory with practical application. Regardless of the chosen awarding organisation—such as City & Guilds or NCFE—learners must complete all three units to achieve certification:

  • Unit 1: Understanding Roles, Responsibilities and Relationships in Education and Training – This knowledge-based unit explores the boundaries of a teaching role, legislation relating to health, safety, and welfare, and how to maintain appropriate professional relationships with learners and other professionals.
  • Unit 2: Understanding and Using Inclusive Teaching and Learning Approaches in Education and Training – Focused on inclusive practice, this unit examines how to design session plans, accommodate diverse learning styles, and foster a psychologically safe, motivating environment. It forms the theoretical bedrock for the course's practical assessment.
  • Unit 3: Understanding Principles and Practices of Assessment – This component investigates various assessment methods—including initial, formative, and summative assessments—and teaches educators how to track learner progress and record constructive feedback effectively.

The Practical Element: The Micro-Teach Assessment

One of the most defining and talked-about components of the AET is the micro-teaching session, linked to Unit 2. While the qualification itself does not mandate extensive live teaching hours, candidates must plan, deliver, and evaluate a micro-teaching session.

Related training: If you are looking to qualify as a trainer in this area, see online fire safety training or explore IQA verifier qualifications for nationally recognised UK and Ireland qualifications.

Typically, this involves preparing a short session—often around 15 minutes of live delivery to peers or assessors, supplemented by observation of fellow trainees—though specific formats can vary based on provider guidelines (such as recorded video submissions or online virtual classrooms). This practical assessment is designed to test a candidate's ability to structure a lesson, engage an audience, handle Q&A segments, and implement basic feedback mechanisms under realistic conditions.

Next Steps and Professional Pathways

Successfully completing the Level 3 AET opens up immediate opportunities to deliver vocational training, corporate onboarding, and adult education courses. While it is not a full teaching license for mainstream primary or secondary schools, it serves as an invaluable credential for regulated sectors—such as health and social care, security, and construction—where trainers must prove instructional competence. For professionals looking to embark on this training journey, comprehensive programmes are available through established providers like Abertay Training at https://www.abertaytraining.co.uk.