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Online · Level 3 Award in Assessing Competence in the Work Environment
You know the job. Get qualified to assess it.
You already observe, question and check the competence of people at work. This is the qualification that lets you sign it off. Two units, four real assessments of your own candidates, completed around your working week.
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Since 2012
Specialists in training teachers, trainers, assessors and IQAs
5000+ learners
Teachers, Trainers, Assessors and IQAs trained so far
45+ years
Combined training experience
Approved Centre
Recognised by multiple Ofqual-Approved Awarding Organisations
Since May 2012, nearly 30 people qualify with us every month - You could be next!
The part that stalls people
Doing the assessing is not the same as being qualified to.
Employers, awarding organisations and internal quality assurers need the person signing off competence to hold the assessor qualification. If you already supervise people on a work-based programme, this Award qualifies the judgement you are making every week – and your assessments of real candidates are the evidence for it.
5 main reasons people choose us
Full course access from the day you enrol
No 8-week countdown clocks. No panic – a full year to work at the pace your life allows.
Money-Back Guarantee – No Questions Asked
Enrol, log in, start Unit 1. If it is not for you, tell us within 14 days. Swift refund – only the PayPal charges are deducted.
Regulated and recognised
Issued by Y Awards (previously YMCA Awards), on the RQF. Regulated by Ofqual, CCEA and Qualifications Wales and recognised across the FE and skills sector. No small print.
Check the L3AACWE on the Ofqual Register (GOV.UK)Marking turnaround
Assessment Submissions marked within 24 to 72 hours – Most providers take 14 to 21 days. You’ll get feedback while the work is still fresh in your head.
Start any day of the year. No cohort dates. No waiting lists.
Pay and enrol – You don't have to wait for days. We invite you to the online course within 10-15 minutes on a weekday (9 am to 5 pm). Exceptions: Weekends and public holidays
Other reasons they love us for
#1 – See yourself here
Is L3AACWE right for you?
You may already supervise people on a work-based programme. You may have been told to get qualified before you can sign off competence. Or your employer may be qualifying a team of assessors. Start with the right qualification for your next step.
1: You Already Do The Work
If you observe, question and check the competence of people at work, this Award qualifies the judgement you are already making.
2: Real Candidates, Real Evidence
You assess two candidates on a work-based programme, four assessments in total, in your own occupational area. Simulations are not permitted.
3: Honest Advice Before Enrolling
If you assess classroom or centre-based achievement rather than workplace competence, L3AAVRA is the better fit. We will tell you that before you pay, not after.
Trusted by professionals working in the following industries
#2 – Enjoy the learning
Small lessons. Useful, lasting skills.
Imagine a spare 15 minutes becoming a step forward. Your course combines different ways to learn, practise and make sense of assessment.
1: 5-15 Minute Bite-Sized, Achievable Learning
Manageable lessons fit around shifts, school runs and the gap between your everyday commitments.
2: Templates You Will Actually Use
Print and keep assessment plans, feedback records, review forms and decision templates and use them for your own four assessments.
3: Theory Brought To Life
Narrators, assessors, candidates and multi-character dialogues work through real UK assessment situations, from rail and retail to healthcare and hospitality – examples from more than 35 industries in the UK.
4: Watch, Read, Listen – Designed For VARK Learners
Professional video and audio, illustrated dialogues, written notes, PDFs, activities and interactive quizzes work together throughout the unit, so you learn the way that suits you.
VisualSketch notes, diagrams and infographics.
AuditoryNarrated lessons and recorded dialogues.
Read-WriteWritten notes, PDFs and handouts.
KinaestheticActivities, quizzes and scenario tasks.
Want to see the course from the inside?
Fifteen minutes on a video meeting. We will walk you through a unit, the assessment and the tutor process.
#3 – Feel at home online
Your next lesson. Always within reach.
Open your course and know where to go. A clear contents panel, visible progress and simple access help you focus on learning.
1: No Passwords To Remember
Simple access and one-click navigation through lessons, resources and assessments.
2: Your Progress, Always Visible
See what you have completed and what is next, without keeping a separate checklist.
3: Learning In Your Pocket
Desktop, laptop, tablet or phone. Your progress syncs and the mobile app brings learning with you.
#4 – You have people beside you
“What if I get stuck?”
Ask us. A real person who understands assessing will help you take the next step.
1: Replies Within 24 Hours
Email questions answered within 24 hours, so you can keep moving.
2: Real Human Support
Email and telephone support, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, throughout your course.
3: Live Help When Needed
Webinars, group Q&A sessions and drop-in calls give you space to talk things through.
4: Practising FE Professionals
Qualified assessors and IQAs who currently work in FE, with 45+ years of combined teaching, assessing and quality assurance experience.
14-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE
No Questions Asked
If you enrol, start Unit 1, read the material, watch the videos, look at the assessments and decide within the first 14 days it isn't right for you – inform us and we'll issue a refund.
No exit interview, no awkward conversation, no excuses from our end, nobody to argue with.
The only risk of enrolling is staying exactly where you are.
Or call us on 01908 736 777 and ask us to explain it in plain terms
#5 – Build confidence, step by step
You're allowed to learn.
Haven't written an assignment for years? You do not need to arrive knowing everything. Clear guidance, practical resources and useful feedback help you develop.
1: Prepare – Know What Is Expected
Work through the knowledge unit and its eight learning outcomes, using the included templates and worked examples for every answer.
2: Assess – Two Candidates, Four Assessments
Record three of your four assessments on video. The fourth is observed live and remotely by your tutor. No travel, no visitors on site.
3: Improve – Resubmissions Included
Two further attempts per theory assessment and any of your four practical assessments can be resubmitted once, at no extra cost.
#6 – Make room for real life
Your life doesn't stop. Your learning can fit.
1: Study Around Real Life
Keep your shifts, family commitments and existing training responsibilities. Learn online at a pace that works within your course access period.
2: Extensions When Life Happens
Illness, bereavement, work pressure or a new baby can change your plans. Paid extensions are available if you need more than a year, so you can protect the progress you have made.
365
days of course access
Start with one lesson. Build a rhythm that works for you.
#7 – A clear investment
Everything you need.
£360 including 20% VAT
Covers registration, both units, marking, your live remote observation, resubmissions and your certificate. No interest, no fees.
Employers — we invoice you. Pay by Bank Transfer. Request an Invoice
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1: What’s included in your £360?
✓365 days access to our LMS (Learning Management System)
✓Awarding Organisation Registration
✓Videos, audio guides, professional templates and printable resources
✓Two theory resubmissions per assessment
✓Live remote observation of your final assessment – no travel costs
✓Ongoing email, telephone and live support by the tutor
✓Digital Certificate – Y Awards (previously YMCA Awards) Level 3 Award in Assessing Competence in the Work Environment
✓£360 credited against L3CAVA if you upgrade within 12 months
✓No surprise charges at checkout!
2: Employer Funding
We can invoice your employer directly, enrol your people together and report progress. There is no minimum booking number. Visit our Corporate page
3: Certificates Issued Fast
You should receive your certificate within 2-3 weeks of successfully completing all course requirements.
Employers: qualifying a whole team?
Send us your finance contact and we will invoice directly, enrol your people in one batch and report progress back to you. Multiple-booking discounts apply: 5% for 3 to 4 bookings, 10% for 5 or more. There is no minimum number of seats. Visit our Corporate page
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#8 – Experience you can trust
Training Teachers, Assessors and IQAs. Since 2012.
More than 5,000 learners have trusted us with their teaching, assessing and IQA qualifications. This is our specialism.
1: Qualified, Practising Trainers
45+ years of combined experience, with qualifications across teaching, assessing and internal quality assurance, including QTLS, DET/DTLLS, CELTA and assessor/IQA awards.
2: Founder-Led And Accountable
Independent and founder-led. You can escalate concerns personally to the directors and speak to people responsible for your experience.
3: Direct Claims Status
Allows us to claim and procure your certificates within 2-3 weeks of course completion. No more waiting for months.
We have also worked with TQUK | AIM Awards | City & Guilds | Edexcel (Pearson) in the past.
4: Support Beyond Completion
Keep in touch as you take your next steps. Completing the qualification does not mean the conversation ends.
5: References When You Need Them
After successful completion, employer references are available on request to support your next application.
#9 – People who started here
Thousands started where you are.
What learners say after completing the L3AACWE and our other assessor courses: a clearly structured course, consistent guidance through the portfolio and feedback that is easy to apply.
100% genuine. Feedback supplied from our Google or Facebook Reviews, LMS, Emails, etc.
No learner names, ratings or career outcomes have been invented.
#10 – Look beyond the certificate
Imagine where this could lead.
Workplace competence now. Vocationally related achievement and quality assurance as your role widens.
1: Your experience
You supervise and check the competence of people at work.
2: L3AACWE
Qualify to assess occupational competence in the work environment.
3: Sign it off
Make and record assessment decisions in your own name.
4: Step up to CAVA
Add the L3AAVRA unit for the full Certificate or move up to Level 4 IQA.
5: Your £360 Comes Off The CAVA Fee
Upgrade to L3CAVA within 12 months of completing this Award and the full £360 you paid is deducted from your L3CAVA fee. We will help you choose a route that matches your experience and entry requirements.
Before you pay – read this bit
Four qualifications. Which one do you need?
Three qualifications, three different jobs. This Award qualifies you to assess occupational competence where the work happens. It does not cover assessing classroom or centre-based achievement – that is L3AAVRA and the two together make up L3CAVA.
1: Workplace Competence, Not Centre-Based
L3AACWE covers assessing what someone can do in their job. Assessing coursework, projects or skills demonstrated in a classroom or training centre is L3AAVRA. If you do both, L3CAVA is the qualification to buy.
2: Nothing Is Wasted If You Upgrade
Both units in this Award sit inside L3CAVA. Upgrade within 12 months and the full £360 you paid comes off your L3CAVA fee.
What you will study
Two mandatory units, 9 credits, 90 hours total qualification time. Qualification number 600/0354/6.
Understanding the principles and practices of assessment
3 creditsD/601/5313 · knowledge unitLearning outcomesHide the learning outcomes
Understanding the principles and practices of assessment
3 creditsAssess occupational competence in the work environment
6 creditsH/601/5314 · practical unitLearning outcomesHide the learning outcomes
Assess occupational competence in the work environment
6 creditsEntry requirements
You are aged 19 or over
You have access to two candidates on a work-based training programme whom you can assess in the workplace, in your own occupational area
You can record three of your four assessments on video and join a live video call for the fourth
You arrange permission from your candidates and your employer to record assessments at work
You have a basic to intermediate command of the English language – you will be writing responses to scenario-based assessments
You have a basic working knowledge of how to use a computer (clicking items, downloading and uploading documents, etc.)
You are self-motivated and can study independently with some tutor support
In-house and class based
Would you rather have this taught in a room?
This page describes the online course. We also deliver it class based at your own site for groups of six or more, with the taught part face to face and the rest finished online. Class based delivery is only available as a corporate booking.
Before you ask on the call
Questions people actually ask
Pick a topic to open its answers
Who should do this course?
It is the assessor qualification for people who assess occupational competence in a work environment. It suits:
- Workplace supervisors, mentors and trainers who already check competence on the job
- People required to hold the assessor qualification before they can sign off competence
- Staff on apprenticeship and work-based programmes moving into an assessor role
- Employers qualifying an internal assessment team in one batch - see our Corporate page
Who enrols on this course?
Three groups make up most of our intake.
✓Workplace supervisors and mentors
Already checking competence on the job and needing the qualification behind it.
✓Assessors-to-be with candidates
Two candidates on a work-based programme and ready to start assessing them.
✓Employers buying seats
Qualifying an internal assessment team in one batch, invoiced on your terms. No minimum numbers required. Visit our Corporate page
Who is this course 'NOT' for?
- You do not have candidates on a work-based programme to assess
- You assess classroom or centre-based achievement rather than workplace competence – L3AAVRA is your qualification
- You cannot record assessments at work or cannot get permission to
- You are aged under 19
- You do not have a basic to intermediate command of the English language
- You struggle to motivate yourself or find it difficult to study without constant support
What will I be able to do by the end?
On successful completion of the course, you will:
- Understand the principles, requirements and key concepts of assessment and the responsibilities of the assessor
- Understand the strengths and limitations of a range of assessment methods
- Plan the assessment of occupational competence using observation, products of work, questioning, discussion, witness testimony, learner statements and recognition of prior learning
- Communicate the purpose, requirements and process of assessment to your candidates
- Make and record valid, fair and reliable assessment decisions against specified criteria
- Give feedback that affirms achievement and identifies next steps
- Maintain assessment records, confidentiality and standardisation procedures
- Apply legal and good practice requirements, including health, safety, welfare, equality and diversity
Is the L3AACWE recognised?
Yes. It is Ofqual-regulated and accepted by employers across the UK. British qualifications are well regarded internationally and Ofqual-regulated qualifications are accepted by many employers and organisations outside the UK. Recognition overseas is decided by each country or employer, so check with them if you plan to work abroad. Check it on the Ofqual Register (GOV.UK)
What comes after this Award?
Learners typically progress to:
- Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement (L3AAVRA)
- Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (L3CAVA)
- Level 4 Award in Internal Quality Assurance (IQA)
- Level 3 Award in Education and Training (L3AET)
Upgrade to L3CAVA with us within 12 months of completing this Award and the full £360 you paid is deducted from your L3CAVA fee.
Do I need candidates before I enrol?
Yes. You need access to two candidates on a work-based training programme whom you can assess in the workplace, in your own occupational area. You carry out four assessments in total, two per candidate. Simulations are not permitted, so the assessments must be of real work. If you do not have candidates yet, start with L3AUPPA and upgrade later – the fee is credited.
Do I need permission to record my candidates?
Yes and you arrange it. Your candidates need to consent to being recorded and your employer needs to be content with filming in the workplace. It is worth settling both before you enrol – it is the one thing that most often delays a start.
How do the assessments work?
The knowledge unit is assessed by scenario-based written questions with short answers. The practical unit is assessed on your four real assessments – three recorded, one observed live and remotely. Your tutor marks submissions within 24 to 72 hours. Two further attempts per theory assessment are included and any of the four practical assessments can be resubmitted once, at no extra cost.
How does the observation work?
Three of your four assessments are submitted as video recordings. The fourth is observed live and remotely by your tutor on a video call. Nobody has to travel and no visitor comes on site. You or a colleague can film the recordings, as long as both you and your candidate are clearly audible.
How fast is my work marked?
Within 24 to 72 hours, often the next day. Weekends and public holidays are not counted. Most providers take 2 to 3 weeks.
Can I fail?
Each assessment is a Pass or a Refer. A Refer comes with clear pointers to put it right, and you get three attempts at each theory assessment and two at each practical one.
Can I use work from an earlier course?
Often, yes, if it still meets today's criteria. Tell us what you have before you enrol and we will check it. See our Recognition of Prior Learning Policy.
How soon can I start?
Today. On weekdays (9 am to 5 pm) your course invitation arrives within 10 to 15 minutes; book at the weekend or on a public holiday and it arrives by the next working day. Receive your invite, fill your application form, upload your photo ID and begin.
Can I start at a later date after making the payment?
Yes, by all means. We allow you to start within 30 days of receiving the invite. Beyond that, a re-invite fee of £60 including VAT applies.
How long does it actually take?
It is a 90-hour qualification. The knowledge unit is usually finished in two to four weeks. The pace of the practical unit depends on your candidates and when you can assess them, so most learners complete everything in two to four months. You have 365 days and there is no penalty for using them.
Can I study on my phone?
Yes. Desktop, laptop, tablet or phone, and your progress syncs. For writing and uploading assessments, a laptop or computer is easiest.
What support will I get?
A named tutor from start to finish. Email or phone us Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, and we reply to emails within 24 hours. Live calls are there when you need them.
What if I need more than 365 days?
Most learners finish well inside the year. If life gets in the way, extend 30 days at a time for an Extension fee of £125 + VAT.
What are the benefits of online learning?
- Powerful visual cues and experiential exercises that make learning better & faster
- Always available – a course that is as close as a computer with an internet connection
- Control the learning environment – you set your own pace and schedule
- Allows flexibility – with no set class times, you decide when to complete your assessments and learning
- A cheaper course than traditional college courses – with no hotel/housing, meal plans or travel expenses to worry about
- No interruptions in your job/career if you are currently busy working/teaching
- No need to take a leave of absence in order to go back to college
- No need to go to the classroom course over a number of days
- No need to worry about the teacher's absences or the effects of other learners (good or bad)
- A controlled positive social atmosphere – no bullying or leg pulling
- Saves you time, energy and money as well!!!
Can I talk to someone before I enrol?
Of course. Book a free 15-minute call and we will walk you through a unit, the assessment and how your tutor helps, or call us on 01908 736 777.
Exactly what's included in the package
As a learner, you will get…
✓Full access to the online course via our LMS – video lessons, reading materials, infographics and scenario-based activities across both units
✓A dedicated Course Tutor for content guidance, to mark your work and to answer administrative queries
✓Live remote observation of your final assessment, included in the fee, with no travel costs
✓Written feedback on your assessments within 24 to 72 hours
✓Assessment plans, feedback records, review forms and decision templates to use for your own four assessments
✓Two further attempts per theory assessment and one free resubmission of any practical assessment
✓Registration with Y Awards (previously YMCA Awards) and your digital certificate on completion
✓Email, telephone and live support, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm
✓365 days of course access from the day you enrol
✓Your £360 credited against L3CAVA if you upgrade within 12 months
Exactly, what do I 'NOT' get in the package?
As a learner, you will NOT get…
✗Candidates to assess – you must have access to two on a work-based programme
✗Permission to film your candidates at work – you arrange consent yourself
✗A qualification that covers assessing classroom or centre-based achievement – that is L3AAVRA
✗A classroom-based or face-to-face learning experience – this course is delivered entirely online
✗An assessor visiting your workplace – your observation is carried out live and remotely
✗Guaranteed availability of your tutor without a pre-booked appointment
✗Unlimited submission attempts – theory assessments are limited to 3 attempts and each practical assessment to 2
✗An open-ended course registration – you have 365 days to complete, with extensions available subject to a fee
✗A printed certificate as standard – your certificate is issued digitally
Are there any hidden charges?
None. £360 including VAT covers registration, both units, marking, your live remote observation, resubmissions and your certificate.
How do I pay?
Securely through PayPal at checkout, by card or PayPal account: in full, in 3 or in 30 days. Employers can request an invoice and pay by Bank Transfer.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes, through PayPal. You can pay in full, split the cost into three interest-free payments of £120.00, £120.00, £120.00 or pay in 30 days at no extra cost. Employers are invoiced and pay by Bank Transfer.
Do you offer group discounts?
Yes: 5% off for 3 to 4 learners and 10% off for 5 or more. Train a Team
What if I start and decide it's not for me?
You're fully protected by our 14-day no-quibble money-back guarantee. If you enrol, start the course, read the material, watch the videos, look at the assessments and decide within the first 14 days it isn't right for you – email us and we'll issue a full refund. No exit interview, no awkward conversation, no excuses from our end, nobody to argue with. The only risk of enrolling is staying exactly where you are.
Can I pass my place to someone else?
Yes. A transfer or substitution is £50 + VAT. Just ask us.
Does this make me a qualified assessor?
Yes, for assessing occupational competence in the work environment. It does not cover assessing classroom or centre-based achievement, such as coursework, projects or skills demonstrated away from the job – that is the Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement (L3AAVRA). Holding both is equivalent to the Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (L3CAVA).
What does the certificate say?
Y Awards (previously YMCA Awards) Level 3 Award in Assessing Competence in the Work Environment. There is no mention of the mode of study on the certificate, so class-based and online learners receive the same certificate.
Who issues my certificate?
Y Awards (previously YMCA Awards), an Ofqual-approved awarding organisation. We claim it for you directly, so there is no long wait.
Can I get a printed certificate?
Your digital certificate is free. If you would like a printed or duplicate copy, it is £45 + VAT.
Your next step
Tell us what you want to do.
Take the Course Quiz and it will tell you which qualification fits in about 57 seconds. If you would rather talk it through, Book a Call – we will point you at the right qualification or tell you honestly if we cannot help.
Or call us on 01908 736 777
14-Day Money-Back Guarantee – No Questions Asked
Refund less PayPal’s processing charge