Introduction to the Level 3 Award in Education and Training

The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET)—frequently recognised by its legacy title, PTLLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector)—serves as the foundational, regulated introduction to teaching and training within the UK's further education, adult skills, and vocational sectors. Regulated by Ofqual on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), this 12-credit qualification is specifically designed for subject matter experts, industry professionals, and corporate leaders who want to validate their instructional capabilities without requiring prior teaching experience.

Carrying a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of roughly 120 hours, with 48 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), the AET acts as a vital stepping stone for individuals transitioning into professional training roles or expanding their consultancy and workplace instruction capabilities.

Core Curriculum and Mandatory Units

The curriculum of the Level 3 AET is structured around three core units that build a well-rounded foundation in educational theory, legal compliance, and inclusive practice. While assessment tasks and optional credit paths can vary slightly depending on the approved awarding body (such as TQUK, City & Guilds, or NCFE), all learners must complete:

  • Unit 1: Understanding Roles, Responsibilities and Relationships in Education and Training. This unit explores the legislative framework surrounding adult education, health and safety obligations, equality, diversity, and the boundaries that govern professional relationships between educators, learners, and external stakeholders.
  • Unit 2: Understanding and Using Inclusive Teaching and Learning Approaches in Education and Training. Candidates study how to design accessible lesson plans, adapt to diverse learning styles, foster positive behavior, and deploy engaging, interactive instructional techniques.
  • Unit 3: Understanding Principles and Assessments in Education and Training. This component focuses on the theoretical principles of formative and summative assessment, tracking learner progression, maintaining accurate records, and providing constructive, objective feedback.

Practical Assessment and the Micro-Teach Element

A critical component of completing the Level 3 AET is the practical assessment element, commonly known as the micro-teach session. Candidates are required to plan, deliver, and evaluate a short micro-teaching session—typically lasting between 15 and 30 minutes—to a small group of peer learners or participants.

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

During this live observation, trainees must demonstrate effective communication, time management, active learner engagement, and the safe use of educational resources or digital aids. Following the session, candidates complete a self-evaluation to analyze their performance, identify areas of strength, and outline developmental targets, ensuring they finish the qualification with practical, hands-on insight into classroom dynamics.

Advancing Your Career with Industry-Standard Training

Acquiring the Level 3 AET provides professionals with an official credential to design, deliver, and assess regulated training programs across numerous industries, from corporate compliance to vocational skills development. To explore accredited certification pathways, structured learning resources, and professional train-the-trainer courses suited to your sector, visit Abertay Training.