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Online · Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills)
You teach in FE. This is the full qualification.
The L5DiT is the full teaching qualification for the Further Education and Skills sector and the recognised route to QTLS. Seven units, 120 credits and a portfolio built from the teaching you are already doing, marked online by tutors who work in FE. Needs a placement of at least 250 hours.
14-Day Money-Back Guarantee – No Questions AskedRefund less PayPal’s processing charge
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
Experience is what you have. Level 5 is what they ask for.
Level 5 is the teaching qualification the Further Education and Skills sector is built around. The L3AET or L4CET will not satisfy a Level 5 requirement and neither counts as credit towards 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 Focus Awards, on the RQF. Regulated by Ofqual and nationally and internationally recognised across the FE sector, no small print.
Check the L5DiT 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 L5DiT right for you?
This one is for people already teaching in Further Education. The L5DiT asks for at least 250 hours of practice across two teaching locations, so it suits people in post rather than people looking for a first teaching role.
1: For People Already In Post
Your own learners, your own subject and your own timetable become the evidence for the portfolio.
2: A Placement You Can Evidence
At least 250 hours, 150 of them teaching, across two locations. We check your situation works before you enrol.
3: Honest Advice Before Enrolling
If the L3AET or L4CET is the better next step or you have no placement yet, we will say so.
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 teaching.
1: 5-15 Minute Bite-Sized, Achievable Learning
Manageable lessons fit around shifts, school runs and the gap between your everyday commitments.
2: Your Professional Toolkit
Print handouts and keep schemes of work, session plans, observation forms and assessment templates for your portfolio and future teaching.
3: Theory Brought To Life
Narrators, mentors, mentees and multi-character dialogues explain real UK FE 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, filmed teaching, written notes, PDFs, activities and interactive quizzes work together in every 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 your observed sessions.
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 teaching 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 trainers who currently work in FE, with 45+ years of combined teaching and training 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 all seven units and use the included templates to build your scheme of work, session plans, placement log and assessment records.
2: Practise – Ten Observed Sessions
Ten observations of at least 45 minutes across your placement, with written feedback after each one. Early observations are developmental; later ones are assessed.
3: Improve Theory – Two Free Resubmissions
If a theory assessment does not yet meet the criteria, two further attempts are included at no extra cost.
4: Improve Practice – One Free Resubmission
If a practical assessment does not yet meet the criteria, one further attempt is included 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.
£1,500 including 20% VAT
Covers registration, all seven units, marking, your ten observations, two free theory resubmissions and one free practical resubmission per assessment and your certificate. No interest, no fees.
Employers — we invoice you. Pay by Bank Transfer. Request an Invoice
Refund less PayPal’s processing charge
1: What’s included in your £1,500?
✓365 days access to our LMS (Learning Management System)
✓Awarding Organisation Registration
✓All seven units – five mandatory plus two level 5 optional units
✓Ten observations of your teaching practice, with written feedback
✓Videos, audio guides, professional templates and printable resources
✓Two theory resubmissions per assessment
✓One practical resubmission per assessment
✓Ongoing email, telephone and live support by the tutor
✓Digital Certificate – Focus Awards Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills)
✓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
Refund less PayPal’s processing charge
#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.
A new qualification is a personal decision. Hear how the learning and support felt to the people who took that step.
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.
The L5DiT is the last of the teaching qualifications. Here is what it opens up.
1: Your experience
You are teaching in FE now, with the learners and the hours behind you.
2: L5DiT
Seven units, 120 credits and 250 hours of assessed teaching practice.
3: Apply for QTLS
Apply for Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills status through the Society for Education and Training.
4: Keep progressing
Degree-level programmes, assessor and IQA routes as your role develops.
5: Progression Costs You Less
Complete the L5DiT with us and progress to assessor or internal quality assurance qualifications at a reduced rate. We will help you choose a route that matches your experience.
Check this first
The placement is the part to sort out before you enrol.
Everything else on this course can be done from your kitchen table. This part cannot. The L5DiT is assessed on real teaching with real learners, so Focus Awards sets the hours out precisely. We do not source placements, so you need one already or in hand.
250 hrs
Placement in total, across your course
150 hrs
Of that, teaching practice
100 hrs
Of the teaching, in your own subject
20 hrs
Minimum live remote delivery, alongside 80 hours face to face
2 locations
The second for at least 20 hours, at a different provider where possible
10
Observations of at least 45 minutes. Up to two may be live remote
1: Who observes you
We can vet and approve a qualified teacher at your workplace to observe you. Video recordings can also be reviewed by arrangement.
2: Who supports you there
Alongside your course tutor, your placement provides two people: a subject specialist who teaches your subject and a pastoral mentor for more general support. Focus Awards recommends around 30 minutes a week from each.
What you will study
Five mandatory units totalling 90 credits, plus two level 5 optional units at 15 credits each, for 120 credits in total. Total qualification time 1,200 hours, 400 guided learning hours. Awarded by Focus Awards, qualification number 610/5281/4.
Unit 1: Teaching My Subject
15 creditsK/651/4745 · Level 5 · 50 guided learning hours · MandatoryLearning outcomesHide the learning outcomes
Unit 1: Teaching My Subject
15 creditsUnit 2: Learners and Learning
15 creditsL/651/4746 · Level 5 · 50 guided learning hours · MandatoryLearning outcomesHide the learning outcomes
Unit 2: Learners and Learning
15 creditsUnit 3: Teachers and Teaching
15 creditsM/651/4747 · Level 5 · 50 guided learning hours · MandatoryLearning outcomesHide the learning outcomes
Unit 3: Teachers and Teaching
15 creditsUnit 4: Professional Practice
30 creditsR/651/4748 · Level 5 · 100 guided learning hours · MandatoryLearning outcomesHide the learning outcomes
Unit 4: Professional Practice
30 creditsUnit 5: Effective Digital and Online Pedagogies
15 creditsT/651/4749 · Level 5 · 50 guided learning hours · MandatoryLearning outcomesHide the learning outcomes
Unit 5: Effective Digital and Online Pedagogies
15 creditsUnit 6: Action Research
15 creditsR/507/9029 · Level 5 · 50 guided learning hours · Optional unit, chosen for youLearning outcomesHide the learning outcomes
Unit 6: Action Research
15 creditsUnit 7: Developing, Using and Organising Resources in a Specialist Area
15 creditsH/507/9049 · Level 5 · 50 guided learning hours · Optional unit, chosen for youLearning outcomesHide the learning outcomes
Unit 7: Developing, Using and Organising Resources in a Specialist Area
15 creditsAssessment is a portfolio of evidence built unit by unit, alongside a placement of at least 250 hours. You are observed ten times, each session at least 45 minutes and the Professional Practice unit ends with a 30-minute professional discussion. The qualification is graded pass or fail.
Entry requirements
You are aged 18 or over
You hold Level 2 Maths and English when you start the programme. If you do not hold them yet, talk to us and we will advise on how to gain them
You have a placement of at least 250 hours available, including 150 hours of teaching practice across two teaching locations
You are well qualified or experienced in the subject you teach
You have a basic working knowledge of how to use a computer (clicking items, downloading and uploading documents, etc.)
You are comfortable with technology and enjoy learning on a screen – reading, researching and watching videos
You are self-motivated and can study independently with some tutor support
#11 – The teaching ladder
Which qualification do you need?
The L5DiT is for people teaching in Further Education who can evidence 250 hours of practice across two locations. If you have no placement yet, start with the L3AET. If you are teaching but cannot commit to 250 hours, the L4CET asks for 30.
The L3AET and L4CET are recommended preparation for the L5DiT, not credit towards it. Focus Awards does not permit either qualification to be used for accreditation of prior learning at Level 5, so the L5DiT is completed in full whichever route you arrive by.
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 for people already teaching in the further education and skills sector who can evidence a placement of at least 250 hours. It suits:
- Teachers in post at colleges, sixth forms and independent training providers
- Trainers who hold the L3AET or L4CET and need the full Level 5 qualification
- Teachers whose provider or role requires Level 5 or who are heading for QTLS
- Teams being qualified together by an employer
Who enrols on this course?
Three groups make up most of our intake.
✓College teachers
In post at a college or sixth form and needing the full Level 5 teaching qualification.
✓Provider tutors
Delivering regularly for an independent training provider and moving up from Level 3 or Level 4.
✓Employers buying seats
Qualifying a teaching team in one batch, invoiced on your terms. No minimum numbers required. Visit our Corporate page
Who is this course 'NOT' for?
- You are aged under 18 or you have no placement and no access to your own learners
- You cannot commit to 250 hours of practice across two teaching locations
- You do not hold Level 2 Maths and English and do not want to gain them
- You want a school teaching qualification
- You do not have a good working knowledge of how to use technology
- You struggle to motivate yourself or find it difficult to study without constant support
Is the L5DiT 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)
Does it let me teach in schools?
No. It is the teaching qualification for the further education and skills sector and is not designed for school settings. It does not confer qualified teacher status for schools. To teach in schools, see Get into School Teaching (GOV.UK).
Was this course known by another name?
Not exactly. The Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET) and, before that, the Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS) covered similar ground. The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills) is the current qualification, built on the new occupational standard and its unit structure and placement requirements are different.
What comes after the L5DiT?
This is the top of the teaching ladder for FE. From here:
- Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status through the Society for Education and Training
- Degree-level programmes
- Assessor qualifications, if you move into assessing
- Internal quality assurance qualifications, if you move into IQA or lead verifier roles
Do I need the L3AET or L4CET first?
No. You can start at Level 5 if you meet the entry requirements. We usually recommend the L3AET or L4CET first if you are newer to teaching, because they build the habits the L5DiT assumes you already have. Be aware that Focus Awards does not allow either qualification to count as accreditation of prior learning at Level 5, so the L5DiT is completed in full either way.
What placement do I need?
At least 250 hours in total. Within that, at least 150 hours must be teaching practice and at least 100 of those teaching hours must be in your own subject area. You need a minimum of 20 hours of live remote delivery alongside at least 80 hours face to face and experience in two teaching locations – the second for at least 20 hours, at a different provider where possible. The remaining hours are professional practice: team meetings, planning, interviews, assessment meetings, observations and CPD.
We do not source placements. If you are not currently teaching, book a call before you enrol and we will talk it through honestly.
Do I need Level 2 Maths and English?
Yes. Focus Awards requires trainee teachers to hold Level 2 in Maths and English at the start of the programme, which matches the standard for the Level 5 FE and Skills Teacher apprenticeship. If you do not hold them yet, talk to us – we can advise on how to gain them before you enrol.
Do you support learners with dyslexia or other needs?
Yes. Tell us what helps you and we will make reasonable adjustments. See our Accessibility and Reasonable Adjustments Policy.
How do the assessments work?
Scenario-based written questions and a portfolio of evidence, plus ten observed teaching sessions of at least 45 minutes each and a 30-minute professional discussion.
Can a team member observe my sessions?
Yes. We can approve a qualified teacher from your team to carry out your session observations. They need to hold a PGCE, Cert. Ed., M. Ed., DTLLS or the DET qualification.
To approve them, we need their up-to-date CV and a copy of their teaching qualification. We cannot approve anyone who qualified within the last 6 months.
Who can observe my teaching?
We can vet and approve a qualified teacher at your workplace to observe you. Video recordings can also be reviewed by arrangement.
There are ten observations in total, each at least 45 minutes. Early observations are mainly developmental; later ones move towards assessment as your practice strengthens. Up to two may be live remote delivery.
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 is this different from a cheap diploma online?
Very cheap courses typically offer a PDF and a light-touch portfolio review. At Level 5 that is not possible: the qualification requires ten observed sessions, a documented placement log and a professional discussion. Our course includes professionally produced AV lessons, original infographics, real UK FE case studies from 35+ industries, observation of your teaching practice and 24-72 hour personal marking from tutors who currently work in FE. The certificate says the same thing on paper. The teacher you become is very different.
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?
You have 365 days from enrolment. In practice the pace is set by your placement: 250 hours of practice and ten observations take time to accumulate. There is no penalty for using the full year and paid extensions are available if life gets in the way.
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!!!
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 all seven units
✓A dedicated Course Tutor for content guidance and to mark your work plus administrative queries
✓Written feedback on theory assessments and practical teaching observations within 72 hours
✓Up to 3 submission attempts per theory assignment
✓Up to 2 attempts for your practical teaching observation
✓365 days to complete the course from your start date
✓A 14-day money-back guarantee from the date of purchase, no questions asked (refund less PayPal’s processing charge)
✓Automated LMS reminders to keep you on track with course progress
✓A digital certificate emailed to you on receipt from the Awarding Organisation
✓The option to order a physical copy for an additional charge
✓Access to TTT's full suite of policies and procedures, including Appeals, Complaints, Malpractice and Privacy policies
Exactly, what do I 'NOT' get in the package?
As a learner, you will NOT get…
✗A classroom-based or face-to-face learning experience – this course is delivered entirely online
✗Guaranteed availability of your tutor or assessor without a pre-booked appointment
✗Unlimited submission attempts – theory assignments are limited to 3 attempts and your practical teaching observation to 2
✗An open-ended course registration – you have 365 days to complete, with extensions available only in extenuating circumstances and subject to a fee
✗Instant feedback – turnaround times are 24-72 hours for theory submissions and practical observations
✗A guaranteed pass – your outcome depends entirely on the quality of your submitted work against the assessment criteria
✗Access to any other TTT courses or promotional offers as part of this enrolment
✗A refund if 20% or more of the course has been accessed or if the 14-day refund window has passed
✗A free physical certificate – a digital copy is provided at no charge, but a physical copy is available to order for an additional fee
✗Printed course materials – all resources are delivered digitally via the LMS (Learning Management System)
✗Error-free AI-assisted content – some materials and feedback tools are supported by AI, which TTT uses with care but which may occasionally contain minor inaccuracies
✗TTT responsibility for saving your submissions – you must maintain your own personal backups of all submissions/coursework
✗Permission to share, resell or distribute TTT's intellectual property
Are there any hidden charges?
None. £1,500 including VAT covers registration, all seven units, marking, your ten observations, two free theory resubmissions and one free practical resubmission per assessment 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 £500.00, £500.00, £500.00 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 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 – email us and we'll refund your fee, less PayPal’s processing charge. 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.
What does the certificate say?
Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills), awarded by Focus Awards, qualification number 610/5281/4. There is no mention of the mode of study on the certificate, so class-based and online learners receive the same certificate. The qualification is graded pass or fail.
Who issues my certificate?
Focus 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