Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET Course, formally PTLLS)
The AET Course has replaced both the Level 3 and 4 Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Sector (PTLLS Qualification). This level 3 AET Training is designed for learners who are thinking of starting a teaching career or those who have limited access to teaching opportunities. You are not expected to be already teaching as all learning outcomes can be achieved during the course. This AET training is ideal for trainers working in fields such as health and safety, Beauty, Nails, Hairdressing, Reiki Healing, health and social care. It is a good foundation for trainers delivering a range of specialist subjects as it promotes professionalism, knowledge and skills needed to meet the needs of learners.
About this qualification
This level 3 award in education and training course like its predecessor PTLLS Qualification is designed as an introduction to teaching. Unit 1 focuses on the roles and responsibilities of a teacher. Unit 2 focuses on the different ways of delivering and facilitating learning. Unit 3 focuses on the scope and use of different assessment methods. The practical element of this AET Training is assessed by a micro-teach session. Learners can alternatively be assessed in the workplace instead of the micro teach if they work with individuals or a group of learners. Learners thinking of becoming an NVQ Assessor can complete the assessor theory unit as part of this course. Learners are usually expected to complete this course within 1 to 8 weeks depending on the mode of course delivery and the combination of units chosen.
Links with other Education and Training Qualifications
There is no requirement for you to complete this AET qualification prior to completing either the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training or the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills). You can enrol directly on any of the courses as long as you can meet the teaching hours requirement and can study at either level 4 or 5.
Entry Requirements
This level 3 teaching course is open to anyone. Learners are expected to have basic numeracy and literacy skills in line with national occupational skills for teachers. Learners are also expected to be committed and serious about achieving the qualification. All learners should have access to the internet and a word processor especially when completing the course online.
Course Structure
To achieve the Level 3 Award in Education and Training, learners must complete the required units and credit requirements. The standard course structure comprises the following core units:
| Unit Number | Unit Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understanding roles, responsibilities and relationships in education and training | 3 |
| 2 | Understanding and using inclusive teaching and learning approaches in education and training | 6 |
| 3 | Understanding assessment in education and training | 3 |
If you are currently working in any learning and development setting and can provide evidence of supporting an individual learner or a group of learners you are welcome to complete either Unit 4 or Unit 5 below instead of the micro-teach (Unit 3).
| Unit Number | Unit Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Facilitate learning and development in groups | 6 |
| 2 | Facilitate learning and development for individuals | 6 |
If you want to complete the assessor theory you will need to complete unit 6 below instead of unit 3. Please choose the appropriate course when booking.
| Unit Number | Unit Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment | 3 |
Course Delivery and Support
Online (Distance Learning)
Our online distance learning option allows you to complete the Level 3 Award in Education and Training at your own pace from the comfort of your home or workplace. You will be assigned a dedicated personal tutor who will provide expert guidance, constructive feedback, and individual support throughout your course. All learning materials, assignment templates, and study guides are accessible 24/7 via our online learning portal.
Classroom (Face-to-face Classes or Workshops)
For learners who benefit from structured interaction, our classroom sessions and face-to-face workshops offer an engaging environment to master key teaching concepts. Guided by experienced teacher trainers, classroom learning provides hands-on practice, peer collaboration, and immediate feedback, making it ideal for completing your micro-teach requirement in a supportive group setting.
Blended Learning
Blended learning combines the flexibility of independent online study with targeted face-to-face or live virtual workshops. This option allows you to work through theory assignments in your own time while benefiting from interactive practical sessions to deliver your micro-teach and collaborate with fellow learners.
How long is the AET training?
Key Facts
The duration of the AET training depends on several factors including your personal commitment, the quality of evidence submitted, the amount of time you can dedicate to study, access to learning opportunities, and your ability to study at a level 3 standard. We expect learners to complete the course within 1 to 8 weeks, depending on the chosen mode of delivery and individual study schedule.
Assessment
Coursetopia encourages learners to submit naturally occurring evidence throughout their studies. Assessment is conducted through a portfolio of evidence. The course carries a 48 hours guided learning requirement, with a total qualification time of 120 hours. Learners are required to complete 5 short questions and a micro-teach session. The micro-teach requires a minimum 15 minutes micro-teach presentation, and you must participate as an observer in peer micro-teach sessions for at least an hour in total.
What can I do after completion?
The AET qualification can be used in its entirety if you are a tutor or trainer. You can go on to complete the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training, the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills) or any other higher education course.
Classroom Course Dates
Our classroom and fast track courses run on set dates throughout the year. Book early to secure your place as group sizes are kept small for quality. All classroom sessions run from 9:30am to 4:30pm.
| Course | Dates | Days | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AET Classroom | 29 September – 1 October 2026 | 3 days | Cheadle | Available |
| AET Weekend Classroom | 3 October 2026 | Half day | Cheadle | Available |
| AET Classroom | 27 - 29 October 2026 | 3 days | Cheadle | Available |
| AET Weekend Classroom | 31/10/2026 | Half day | Cheadle | Available |
| AET Classroom | 24 -26 Novemeber 2026 | 3 days | Cheadle | Available |
| AET Weekend Classroom | 28/11/2026 | Half Day | Cheadle | Available |
| AET Classroom | 15 -17 December 2026 | 3 days | Cheadle | Available |
| AET Weekend Classroom | 19 December 2026 | Half day | Cheadle | Available |
Enrolment (Costs and Signing up)
Our course fees are fully inclusive and cover awarding body registration, dedicated tutor support, tutorial guidance, access to online learning resources, portfolio assessments, quality assurance and certification. There are no hidden fees. Payment is required within 5 days of booking. We are also flexible with corporate bookings and can accommodate purchase order requirements.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training Online, Distance Learning
Full cost: £230. Instalments: deposit £123, one monthly instalment of £123.
Full cost: £260. Instalments: deposit £135, one monthly instalment of £135. Level 3 Award in Education and Training with Assessor Unit
Full cost: £285. Instalments: deposit £145, one monthly instalment of £145. Level 3 Award in Education and Training — Fast Track (3 Days Classroom)
Intensive 3-day classroom course for learners who can commit to an accelerated pace. Ideal if you have prior learning or teaching experience. Full cost: £350.
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