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learning and development

What is the Level 3 Award in Education and Training Equivalent to?

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Lead Academy

6 Mins Read

Imagine you’re thinking about a new job. Maybe you’re good at explaining things, or you love helping others learn. You come across something called the Level 3 Award in Education and Training. But what is it? What exactly does this qualification mean?

Well, it’s like starting on the same level as an A-Level or NVQ Level 3. This qualification is great if you want to start a career in teaching or training, especially in the further education and skills sector.

In this write-up, you’ll learn all about the Level 3 AET. You’ll get to know how this compares to other familiar educational milestones like A-Levels or NVQ Level 3, what you’ll study, and the different jobs it can lead to!

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What is the Level 3 Award in Education and Training?

The Level 3 AET is a qualification recognised across the country for beginners in teaching or training. It’s made for people who want to work in —

  • adult education,
  • community education,
  • work-based learning,
  • or as independent training providers.

This award in Education and Training Level 3 helps you realise the roles and responsibilities of a teacher or trainer. You’ll learn about how to plan lessons, deliver them, and assess students in a way that includes everyone.

blog-star Are you thinking about teaching adults?

Our Level 3 Award in Education and Training online course is here to help train you to be a teacher in the UK! This course will cover everything from planning lessons and assessing learners to creating a positive learning environment. Learn at your own pace, and get certified with this recognised qualification. Find out more now!

What Does “Equivalent To” Mean?

When we say a qualification is “equivalent to” something, we mean it’s just as difficult or complex as another qualification. Think of it like comparing different kinds of apples – they might be different, but they are all still apples.

Equivalent to What?

While the Level 3 AET is at the same level (Level 3) in the UK’s qualification framework as A-Levels and NVQs Level 3, it’s important to understand they are equivalent in level (this means they require similar amounts of study and effort to achieve) but not necessarily in focus and purpose levels.

How are They Equivalent?

Level of Difficulty:

  • All Level 3: Level 3 AET, A-Levels, and NVQ Level 3 require similar levels of study and effort.

How are They Different?

Focus:

  • A-Levels: Academic subjects (math, history, science), preparing for university.
  • NVQ Level 3: Practical job skills (plumbing, electrical work), showing job competence.
  • Level 3 AET: Teaching skills (planning lessons, assessing students), preparing for teaching careers.

Purpose:

A-Levels: For university entrance.
NVQ Level 3: To show job competency.
Level 3 AET: To start a teaching or training career.

While A-Levels, NVQ Level 3, and Level 3 AET are all at the same level of difficulty, they prepare you for different careers: university, specific jobs, and teaching, respectively.

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So, What Can I Do with a Level 3 AET?

Once you have your Level 3 AET, you can start working as an assistant teacher or trainer in further education settings, like colleges or adult learning centres. You can help experienced teachers and gain more experience yourself.

Plus, you can teach students aged 16 and older in various subjects depending on what you know.

Is This the Highest Level?

No way! The Level 3 AET is just the beginning. If you enjoy teaching and want to climb higher on the ladder, you can take further qualifications like the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training or the Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training.

How to Obtain the Level 3 AET

To get the Level 3 AET, follow these easy steps:

  • Pick a Training Provider: Start by choosing a well-known training provider. You can earn the Level 3 AET through providers like Lead Academy, which gives you lots of support and flexible learning options.
  • Sign Up for the Course: After picking your provider, sign up for the Level 3 AET course. Make sure you have good reading, writing, math, and computer skills. You don’t need any specific qualifications to join.
  • Finish the Coursework: The course is entirely online, so you can study from anywhere, anytime. It usually takes about 48 hours of study time, but you might spend up to 120 hours, including all research and writing tasks. Plus, you have a year to complete the course, so you can easily learn at your own pace.

Once you finish the course and assessments successfully, you will get the NCFE Level 3 Award in Education and Training. This certificate is recognised across the country and regulated by Ofqual, which will make your resume look better and boost your career chances.

Check out our latest blog, What is NVQ Level 3 Equivalent to, and get detailed information about Level 3 NVQ.

Cheerful female young teacher working with kids

Subjects You Can Teach

You can teach a subject where you have relevant qualifications or experience. This can be an academic subject or a vocational one.

Here are some examples of how you might use your qualifications:

  • Vocational training: Preparing learners for jobs and improving professional skills.
  • Academic training: Teaching subjects at GCSE and A-level.
  • English and Maths: Teaching basic skills in reading, writing, and math.

FAQs

1 ) Is the Level 3 AET the same as a teaching degree?

No, the AET is a starting point, while a teaching degree gives more knowledge for becoming a qualified teacher.

2 ) Is the Level 3 AET recognised internationally?

The AET itself might not be recognised everywhere, but its skills are useful in different teaching situations.

3 ) Can I use the Level 3 AET for other qualifications?

Absolutely! It can serve as a foundation for further teaching qualifications like the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training.

4 ) What are the benefits of getting a Level 3 AET?

You will be able to experience a career change, grow personally, find more job opportunities, and enjoy helping others learn.

5 ) How do I find the best AET/ Level 3 Award in Education and Training near me?

Search online for local training providers offering the Level 3 Award in Education and Training. Check reviews and compare several options to find the best fit for you.

Wrapping Up

Hopefully, you’ve got your answer. To sum it up, the Level 3 Award in Education and Training is a useful qualification that is at the same academic level as A-Levels and NVQ Level 3. While it has the same level of difficulty, it specifically prepares people for a career in teaching and training. Whether you want to start a new career in education or improve your teaching skills, the Level 3 AET is a solid foundation that leads to more qualifications and various opportunities in the education field.

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