Short answer
The L3AET is the Ofqual-regulated entry-level teaching qualification for further education, adult and workplace training. You need no degree or teaching experience. You study online with 365 days of access, and a named tutor marks your work within 24 to 72 hours.
Below are plain-English answers to the questions we are asked most often about online teacher training in the UK. No jargon, just what you need to know.
Your questions, answered
What exactly is the L3AET?
The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (L3AET), previously known as PTLLS, is the recognised entry-level teaching qualification for anyone who wants to teach or train in the UK further education and skills sector. It is the starting point for teachers, trainers, workplace instructors and anyone whose role involves sharing knowledge in a structured way.
It is regulated by Ofqual and accepted by employers across further education, health and social care, the public sector and private training. Check the L3AET on the Ofqual Register (GOV.UK)
Do I need a degree or previous teaching experience?
No to both. What matters is that you have a subject or occupational area you can teach. Most people who come to us have years of hands-on experience in their field, so that is rarely a problem.
If you already mentor colleagues, deliver inductions or stand up in front of a room to share what you know, you are ready. We do expect Level 2 English (around GCSE) in your written work.
How does online learning actually work?
When you enrol, you get access to the online course: lessons, assessment briefs, templates and the place to submit your work, all in one login and available at any time.
You work through the lessons at your own pace, complete your assessments and upload them. Your tutor marks your work within 24 to 72 hours and either confirms you have passed or tells you exactly what to add or change. There are no live sessions you have to attend.
How long does it take?
The L3AET is 120 hours of Total Qualification Time, of which 48 are guided learning. You start within 30 days of booking and have 365 days of access, so you set the pace. Some learners finish in a few weeks; others spread it across several months.
The L4CET (360 hours) and the L5DiT (1,200 hours) are larger qualifications, but every course gives you the same 365 days of access. If you need longer, a 30-day extension is available for an Extension fee of £150 including VAT.
Will I need to do any observed teaching?
For the L3AET you complete a micro-teach: a short teaching session that is recorded and assessed. It lasts at least 15 minutes and your learners need to be aged 14 or over. Colleagues or peers at work are fine, so you do not need a formal classroom.
There is one resubmission for the micro-teach, so please prepare well. Your tutor will guide you through what is expected well before you get there. Setting up your micro-teach
Is the qualification recognised by employers?
Yes. The L3AET is regulated by Ofqual and awarded through Ofqual-approved awarding organisations. It is accepted across further education, vocational training, the public sector and private providers.
It does not qualify you to teach in a state secondary school; that needs Qualified Teacher Status through a different route. The L3AET is designed for further education, adult learning and workplace training.
What if I get stuck with my assessments?
You will not be left to work it out alone. Every learner has a named tutor you can email, phone or book a live call with. Every assessment comes with clear instructions and a template, so you are never facing a blank page.
If an answer is not quite there, your tutor tells you what is missing and you resubmit it. Resubmissions are included in your fee.
Can I really study around my job and family?
Yes. That is the whole point of how the course is designed. There are no classes to attend, no deadlines for individual tasks and no need to take time off work. You log in when you have a spare hour and come back when life allows.
Many learners study in the evenings, on lunch breaks or at weekends. How to study around a full-time job
What happens after I qualify?
We hold Direct Claims Status with the awarding organisation, so we can claim your certificate directly. It usually arrives 2 to 3 weeks after you complete.
From there, many learners move into new roles, take on more responsibility at work or go on to the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training (L4CET). L3AET, L4CET or L5DiT: which do you need?
How do I enrol?
Choose your course on our website and follow the enrolment steps. If you are not sure which course is right, take the Course Quiz or Book a Call. You can also phone us, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.
Every course has a 14-day money-back guarantee, so you can start Unit 1 and change your mind. Only PayPal’s processing charge is deducted.
Most people who ask these questions have already done the hard part: they have the experience worth teaching.