What is the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (RQF)?

The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (RQF) is an introductory, nationally recognised qualification that forms part of the Regulated Qualifications Framework in the UK. It is designed for individuals who are either new to teaching and training or considering entering the profession, particularly within the Further Education (FE) and Skills sector. This award provides foundational knowledge of the teaching and learning process and offers insight into the responsibilities and expectations of educators in post-16 education. It is the replacement for the former PTLLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector) qualification and serves as a first step toward more advanced teaching qualifications, such as the Level 4 Certificate or Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training.

What will I learn in the Level 3 Award?

The Level 3 Award covers essential introductory topics related to teaching and training in adult and further education settings. Key areas of study typically include:

• Roles, responsibilities and relationships in education and training: This unit explores the professional duties of a teacher or trainer, including legal and ethical considerations, safeguarding, and working with other professionals.

• Planning inclusive teaching and learning: Learners are introduced to the principles of planning and delivering effective and inclusive teaching sessions, taking into account the diverse needs of learners.

• Understanding assessment methods: The course provides an overview of both formative and summative assessment techniques, including how to use feedback to support learner progress.

• Micro-teaching sessions: In most cases, learners are required to plan and deliver a short teaching session (known as a micro-teach) to their peers. This provides an opportunity to put theory into practice and receive constructive feedback.

The course encourages reflective practice and gives learners the basic tools to begin developing their own teaching style and strategies.

Q3: Is previous teaching experience required for the Level 3 Award?

No prior teaching experience is necessary to enrol on the Level 3 Award in Education and Training. It is specifically designed to be accessible to individuals who are completely new to the teaching profession. This includes career changers, recent graduates, subject-matter experts from industry, or volunteers seeking to formalise their experience. The course serves as a practical and theoretical introduction, helping individuals decide whether a career in education and training is the right path for them.

Can I teach with just the Level 3 Award in Education and Training?

The Level 3 Award provides the basic credentials to undertake some teaching or training roles, particularly within private training providers, adult learning centres, or voluntary and community-based education projects. However, it does not qualify an individual as a fully-fledged teacher in the Further Education sector. For permanent or more advanced teaching positions — especially in further education colleges — most employers will expect a higher-level qualification, such as the Level 4 Certificate or the Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training.

That said, the Level 3 Award can be sufficient for individuals delivering short courses, workplace training, or one-off instructional sessions, especially if they have significant subject knowledge or practical experience in their field.

How long does it typically take to complete this award?

The Level 3 Award is designed to be flexible and relatively short in duration. Depending on the delivery format and provider, it can be completed in a range of timeframes:

• Part-time study: For those studying alongside other commitments, the course can be spread out over several weeks or even months, with evening or weekend sessions.

• Online or blended learning: Many learners now complete the course via online or blended learning, which can be completed at their own pace — typically within 4 to 12 weeks.

The relatively short timeframe makes it an appealing option for those who wish to gain a recognised teaching qualification without a long-term commitment.