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ATHE Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET)

ATHE Level 3 Award in Education and Training introduces teaching principles, lesson planning, assessment methods, and inclusive practice, helping learners develop foundational skills for effective training and teaching roles.

ATHE Level 3 Award in Education and Training

Overview of Award in Education and Training

Every great teacher started exactly where you are — nervous but determined.

You don’t need to be perfect. You only need to be one step ahead of your learners and genuinely care about their progress. The AET gives you the tools and confidence to do exactly that.

The ATHE Level 3 Award in Education and Training is an entry-level teaching qualification regulated within the RQF. It is designed for individuals who are interested in teaching or training in further education, adult learning, or workplace settings. Qualification Details:

Qualification Details:

  • Awarding Body: ATHE (Awards in Higher Education)
  • Regulation: Ofqual-regulated
  • Level: Level 3 (equivalent to GCE A-level)
  • Credits: 12
  • Qualification Number: 601/8386/X
  • Total Qualification Time (TQT): 120 hours
  • Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 48 hours
  • Grading: Pass or Fail

This qualification gives you a broad introduction to the education and training sector. You'll explore the roles and responsibilities of teachers and trainers, learn how to create inclusive learning environments, understand different assessment approaches, and develop skills in lesson planning and learner support.

Get Certified To Teach At A Nationally Accredited Standard By Enrolling In This Course Today.

The course was audited and updated on: 19th May, 2026

What you'll study

This qualification develops the knowledge, understanding and skills needed for teaching and training roles. You'll study three core units covering:

  • Understanding roles, responsibilities and relationships in education and training – The teaching role, professional responsibilities, working relationships with other professionals, creating safe and inclusive learning environments, and understanding learner needs
  • Understanding and using inclusive teaching and learning approaches in education and training – Creating inclusive environments where all learners can succeed, planning and delivering inclusive teaching, using different teaching methods, and evaluating your practice
  • Understanding assessment in education and training – Assessment methods and types, involving learners in assessment, providing constructive feedback, and keeping assessment records

You'll develop practical skills through written assignments and a micro-teaching session where you deliver and are assessed on a short teaching demonstration.

Total Qualification Time & Guided Learning Hours

Understanding TQT and GLH:

The ATHE Level 3 Award requires 120 hours of Total Qualification Time (TQT), equivalent to 12 credits (one credit = 10 hours of learning).
This time is made up of two types of learning:

Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 48 hours

These are hours when you're in direct contact with your tutor, mentor, or training provider. This includes:

  • Live online support sessions and webinars
  • One-to-one mentoring with your dedicated student mentor
  • Feedback sessions following assignment submissions
  • Interactive guidance on assignment requirements and learning outcomes
  • Observation and assessment of your micro-teaching session
  • Real-time supervision of your learning activities

Independent Study: 72 hours

These are hours you spend learning independently, including:

  • Reading course materials and information leaflets
  • Watching video tutorials
  • Completing written assignments and researching topics
  • Gathering evidence to meet assessment criteria
  • Preparing for your micro-teaching session
  • Reflecting on your learning and practice
  • Any other unsupervised learning, study or coursework not under direct tutor supervision

Note: Individual learners may take more or less time to complete the qualification depending on prior knowledge, experience, and learning style. These are estimated hours based on average learner progression.

Method Of Assessment

This qualification uses internal assessment only. You'll complete a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your achievement against the learning outcomes and assessment criteria for each unit.

What You'll Submit

  • Three written assignments covering different units of the qualification. Each assignment asks you to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of key teaching concepts, often drawing on real-world examples and your own reflections on teaching practice.
  • One micro-teaching session – A mandatory practical demonstration where you deliver and are assessed on a teaching session (minimum 15 minutes) to learners. This is observed and assessed by your tutor. You can submit this as a video recording if face-to-face observation isn't possible. For the additional 45 minutes, you can either deliver further micro-teaching sessions or observe other trainee teachers' sessions and reflect on these observations

Quality Assurance

  • ATHE carries out quality assurance to ensure all assessments are marked fairly and consistently.
  • Assessors receive training on ATHE standards and assessment practices.
  • A sample of learner work is reviewed by external verifiers during ATHE quality assurance visits.
  • All assessment decisions are recorded and retained for quality assurance purposes.
  • If you have concerns about your assessment, formal appeals procedures are available.

Submission

All work is submitted through One Education's online learning portal. You’ll find detailed instructions once you start the course.

Requirement

If you’re aged 19 or over, you’ll usually need one of the following:

  • 5 Or More GCSEs At Grades C And Above
  • Other Equivalent International Qualifications

Note:

  • For Those Whom English Is Not Their First Language, IELTS 5.5 Or An Approved Equivalent Is Recommended.
  • You Must Also Have An Appropriate Standard Of English, Maths And IT s

Matured Learners with RPL and Varied Background

This qualification is suitable for learners from diverse backgrounds, including mature students and those with non-traditional routes into education and training.

  • No prior teaching or training experience is required
  • Relevant work experience, paid or voluntary roles, or professional qualifications may support entry
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be applied for existing skills or qualifications linked to course content
  • Individual circumstances and prior experience are reviewed to assess suitability
  • Additional learning needs or disabilities can be supported through reasonable adjustments to ensure fair access

This flexible approach allows learners to build on existing experience while developing new skills for roles in education and training.

Career Path

This Level 3 qualification builds practical teaching and training skills recognised across the UK education sector and prepares you for a range of learner support roles.
Possible roles include:

  • Teaching assistant or education support worker
  • Trainer or instructor in education or workplace settings
  • Online tutor or virtual trainer
  • Learning mentor or support specialist
  • Adult learning or community facilitator
  • Workplace coach or mentor

Frequently Asked Questions

It is equivalent to an A-Level or an NVQ Level 3 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).

Yes, you can work as a teacher or trainer in the further education (FE) sector, corporate training, or adult education, though primary and secondary schools usually require higher-level qualifications like a PGCE.

The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET)—formerly known as PTLLS—is an introductory, entry-level qualification that covers the basics of planning, delivering, and assessing teaching sessions.

Yes. The ATHE Level 3 Award in Education and Training is Ofqual-regulated (Ofqual is the UK’s regulator of qualifications). This means it meets strict government standards for quality, assessment, and learner protection. You can check the Register of Regulated Qualifications using the qualification number 601/8386/X to verify all official details.

Yes; it is the industry standard for entering post-16 education and corporate training. While it doesn’t guarantee a role, it proves to employers that you have mastered the fundamentals of lesson planning and assessment.  

Yes; as a regulated RQF qualification, it earns UCAS points that contribute toward your university application. However, because point values vary, you should always verify the specific entry requirements with your chosen institution.  

Course Curriculum

Induction form
Induction Form 00:05:00
Registration Entry Form
Registration Entry Form 00:05:00
Getting Started
Qualification Guidance 00:00:00
Getting Started AET 00:00:00
Application Form (AET) 00:00:00
SafeRead Passcode: Unlock Your Study Materials
SafeRead Passcode: Unlock Your Study Materials 00:00:00
Qualification Specifications
Qualification Specification- ATHE Level 3 Award in Education and Training 00:00:00
Unit 1: Understanding Roles, Responsibilities and Relationships in Education and Training
Self-Assessment Grid
Self-Assessment Grid – Understanding Roles, Responsibilities and Relationships in Education and Training 00:00:00
Guidance For Achieving The Unit
Guidance For Achieving the Unit – Understanding Roles, Responsibilities and Relationships in Education and Training 00:15:00
Information Leaflets
An introduction to the Level 3 Award in Education and Training 00:15:00
Teaching Roles, Responsibilities, Relationships and Boundaries 00:20:00
Legislation, Regulatory Requirements and Codes of Practice 00:15:00
Promoting Equality and Valuing Diversity 00:25:00
Promoting Appropriate Behaviour and Respect for Others 00:20:00
Learner Needs and Points of Referral 00:25:00
Handouts
Table of Examples of Teaching Roles and Responsibilities 00:10:00
Table of Example Boundaries of Teaching 00:10:00
The Teaching, Learning and Assessment Cycle 00:10:00
Table of Potential Learner Needs and Points of Referral 00:10:00
Identifying Inequality 00:05:00
Learner Differences 00:05:00
Ways to Promote and Advance Equality 00:15:00
Ways to Promote Inclusion 00:10:00
Safeguarding, Prevent Duty and British Values 00:20:00
Tips for Teachers and Trainers 00:15:00
Equality and Diversity – Glossary of Terms 00:25:00
Checklists
Teaching, Learning and Assessment Checklist 00:20:00
Advancing Equality and Diversity Checklist 00:20:00
General Items
Pre-Course Assessment Form 00:00:00
Action Plan Template for Achievement of The Award 00:00:00
Course Evaluation Form 00:00:00
Beginner’s Guide to Referencing 00:25:00
Verbs Used in The Award’s Assessment Criteria with Their Meanings 00:05:00
Glossary of Educational Terms 00:25:00
Educational Abbreviations and Acronyms 00:15:00
Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria
An introduction to the Level 3 Award in Education and Training 00:30:00
Teaching Roles, Responsibilities, Relationships and Boundaries in Education and Training 00:30:00
Legislation, Regulatory Requirements and Codes of Practice 00:30:00
Promoting Equality and Valuing Diversity 00:30:00
Promoting Appropriate Behaviour and Respect 00:30:00
Learner Needs and Points of Referral 00:30:00
Video Tutorials
Award in Education and Training Level 3 Workshop Objectives 00:16:00
Understanding Roles, Responsibilities and Relationships in Education and Training 01:38:00
Unit 2: Understanding and Using Inclusive Teaching and Learning Approaches in Education and Training
Self-Assessment Grid
Self-Assessment Grid – Understanding and Using Inclusive Teaching and Learning Approaches in Education and Training 00:00:00
Guidance For Achieving The Unit
Guidance For Achieving the Unit – Understanding and Using Inclusive Teaching and Learning Approaches in Education and Training 00:25:00
Micro Teaching
Micro Teaching 00:00:00
Detailed Guide to Micro-Teaching Session 00:00:00
Information Leaflets
Inclusive Teaching and Learning 00:30:00
Teaching, Learning and Assessment Approaches 00:30:00
Providing Opportunities for English, Maths, ICT and Wider Skills 00:30:00
Theories of Learning 00:25:00
Communication 00:25:00
Induction, Icebreakers and Ground Rules 00:30:00
Creating a Scheme of Work 00:30:00
Creating a Session Plan 00:30:00
Self-Evaluation and Continuing Professional Development 00:20:00
Handouts
Table of Resources Which Could Be Used for Teaching, Learning and Assessment 00:05:00
Table of Teaching and Learning Approaches and Activities 00:25:00
Table of Objectives 00:05:00
The Environment – Examples of Physical, Social and Learning Aspects 00:05:00
Templates
Template – Induction Checklist 00:00:00
Template – Icebreaker – Bingo 00:00:00
Template – Icebreaker – Getting to Know You 00:00:00
Templates and Completed Examples
Template – Rationale for a Scheme of Work 00:00:00
Completed Example of a Rationale for a Scheme of Work 00:15:00
Template – Scheme of Work 00:05:00
Completed Example of a Scheme of Work 00:05:00
Template – Session Plan 00:00:00
Completed Example of a Session Plan 00:10:00
Template – Personal Development Plan 00:00:00
Completed Example of a Personal Development Plan 00:05:00
Template – Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Record 00:00:00
Completed Example of a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Record 00:05:00
Template – Reflective Learning Journal 00:00:00
Completed Example of a Reflective Learning Journal 00:10:00
Template – Summary and Action Plan 00:00:00
Completed Example of a Summary and Action Plan 00:05:00
Checklist
Verbal, Listening, Non-Verbal and Written Communication Skills Checklist 00:15:00
Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria
Inclusive Teaching and Learning 00:45:00
Teaching, Learning and Assessment Approaches 00:45:00
Providing opportunities for English, Maths, ICT and Wider Skills 00:45:00
Theories of Learning 00:45:00
Communication 00:30:00
Induction, Icebreakers and Ground Rules 00:35:00
Creating a Scheme of Work 00:45:00
Devising an Inclusive Teaching and Learning Plan (Session Plan) 00:45:00
Self-Evaluation and Continuing Professional Development 00:45:00
Video Tutorials
Understanding and Using Inclusive Teaching and Learning Approaches in Education and Training 01:41:00
Unit 5: Understanding Assessment in Education and Training
Self-Assessment Grid
Self-Assessment Grid – Understanding Assessment in Education and Training 00:00:00
Guidance For Achieving The Unit
Guidance For Achieving The Unit – Understanding Assessment in Education and Training 00:10:00
Information Leaflets
Assessment Types 00:25:00
Assessment Methods 00:30:00
Involving Learners and Others in the Assessment Process 00:30:00
Making Assessment Decisions and Providing Feedback 00:35:00
Record Keeping 00:20:00
Handouts
Table of Assessment Methods, Approaches and Activities 00:10:00
Table of Assessment Types 00:15:00
Table of Advantages and Limitations of Peer and Self Assessment 00:05:00
Table of Example Teaching Records 00:05:00
Assessor Roles and Responsibilities 00:05:00
Templates and Completed Examples
A Full Set of Assessment Record Templates 00:00:00
Completed Example of A Full Set of Assessment Records 00:25:00
Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria
Assessment Types 00:45:00
Assessment Methods 00:35:00
Involving Learners and Others in the Assessment Process 00:45:00
Making Assessment Decisions and Providing Feedback 00:45:00
Record Keeping 00:30:00
Video Tutorials
Understanding Assessment in Education and Training 00:31:00
Assignment Submission Guideline
Assignment Submission Guideline 00:00:00
Command Verbs
Command Verbs 00:00:00
Assignments
Assignments 1 day, 18 hours
Submit Your Assignments
Submit Your Assignments – ATHE Level 3 Award in Education and Training 00:00:00
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