New trainers
For subject specialists beginning to deliver workplace or vocational training.
FOCUS AWARDS LEVEL 3 · EDUCATION & TRAINING
Start Your Teaching and Training Journey with the Level 3 AET
Build an accessible foundation in planning inclusive learning, understanding the teacher role and using assessment effectively in education and training.
LevelLevel 3 Award
Learning sizeTQT 120 · GLH 48
Study patternFlexible online study
DeliveryOnline portfolio support
Who it is for
Choose a route that matches your real role
This qualification is designed around the activity you carry out, the evidence you can access and the professional capability you need to demonstrate.
Aspiring teachers
For people exploring a first formal step into education and training.
Assessors and mentors
For practitioners who want stronger planning, inclusion and assessment knowledge.
Course structure
What you will complete
Your assessor will help you plan a clear evidence route against the qualification requirements.
- Group A: 3 mandatory credits covering the roles, responsibilities and relationships in education and training
- Group B: 6 credits from the approved teaching and learning options
- Group C: 3 credits from the approved assessment options
Qualification at a glance
- Focus Awards regulated qualification
- 601/6099/8
- 12 credits
- TQT 120 · GLH 48
- Supported online e-portfolio
Assessment
Complete a portfolio matched to your chosen units
You will complete supported online learning and portfolio tasks. Evidence requirements vary with the optional units selected, so some routes may include practical activity rather than knowledge work alone.
Your evidence may include
- Knowledge tasks and reflective evidence
- A unit combination meeting the 12-credit structure
- Evidence matched to the optional units selected
- Tutor guidance through the online portfolio
Before you enrol
A flexible starting point, with unit choices that matter
The AET is introductory, but it should not be presented as automatically theory-only. SHEC will help confirm the unit combination and the evidence each choice requires.
- Minimum age 19
- No previous teaching qualification required
- A suitable subject or vocational area helps contextualise learning
Progression and alternatives
Plan the right next step
Compare the adjacent routes before you commit so the qualification matches your responsibilities and evidence access.
Develop teaching practice
Progress to the Level 4 Certificate when you have access to real teaching activity.
Explore this route →Add assessor competence
Choose a Level 3 assessor route if your role includes making assessment decisions.
Explore this route →Plan your unit choice
Ask SHEC which optional-unit route best fits your setting.
Explore this route →Frequently asked questions
Answers before you apply
Is the AET a good first teaching qualification?
Yes. It is designed as an introductory qualification for people beginning or considering a role in education and training.
Do I need teaching experience before I start?
Previous teaching experience is not required, although your optional-unit choices can affect the evidence you need to produce.
Is every AET route theory-only?
No. Evidence requirements depend on the optional units selected, so practical activity may be required.
Can I progress to the Level 4 CET?
Yes, when you are ready for a larger qualification and can access the real teaching practice needed for Level 4 evidence.
Ready to move forward?
Enrol online or ask the SHEC team to confirm the best route for your role.