Want to teach adults or share your work skills with others? This blog gives you the clear steps on how to get an AET qualification easily. What is it? It is a basic Level 3 course for new teachers. Pick a subject, find a provider, and begin.
Wanna get an overall idea quickly? Then the overall ideal is: Choose your topic, check the entry rules, and enrol on a suitable course. Work through your lessons carefully and practise your teaching. Plan a short session, complete all your written assignments, and earn your certificate. Do not wait. Take your very first step into the exciting world of adult education.
What Is an AET Qualification?
AET stands for Award in Education and Training. It is a starter course for anyone who wants to learn how to teach adults. You can use it to teach in colleges, workplaces, or community centres. It helps you learn how to plan a fun lesson, explain things clearly, and help your students learn.
So, what do you actually learn during the course? You learn how to keep your classroom safe and friendly for everyone. Next, you learn how to choose the right activities for your students and check if they understand the lesson. Also, you will practice how to give helpful tips so your students can do better.
However, does this mean you can teach anywhere right away? No, because this is just a first step! The AET is a great way to start your journey, but some big teaching jobs will ask for a higher qualification later on. Still, it is a fantastic way to begin your teaching adventure!
Who Can Take an AET Course?
The short answer is that almost anyone who wants to share their knowledge can take this course. An AET course might be perfect for you if you want to start teaching, improve your training skills, or share what you know with others.
It is very helpful for different types of people:
- Career changers: People who want to move into education or training.
- Workplace trainers: Staff members who want to train new or existing workers.
- Subject experts: Skilled people who want to teach what they have learned through work.
- New teachers: Beginners who want to learn basic teaching ideas.
- Self-employed workers: Professionals who want to offer training in their own subject area.
- Experienced staff: Workers who want to grow in their role and try teaching opportunities.
Do you need to be a teacher already? No, you do not always need previous teaching experience! However, your course provider might check your English skills, your subject knowledge, and your ability to write assignments.
For example, imagine someone who has worked for years as a hairdresser and now wants to teach hair and beauty skills. An AET course helps them learn how to plan and lead a lesson, while their real-life job experience gives them the knowledge to teach.
Before you join, it is a great idea to check the entry rules with your chosen provider. This simple step will help you understand everything you need before you begin!
How to Get an AET Qualification Step by Step
If you want to know how to get an AET qualification, you can follow six simple steps.
1. Choose the subject you want to teach
Think about the things you are good at, your past jobs, and what you enjoy doing. For example, you might want to teach business, health and social care, building work, beauty, or first aid.
Why is knowing your subject so important? It is important because your students will need clear explanations and helpful advice from you. Therefore, think carefully about the skills you can share and who you can help.
2. Check the entry requirements
Make sure you read the rules before you sign up. For instance, check how old you need to be, your English skills, and what else you need to know. Some schools accept beginners, but others have extra rules. As a result, you should always check these conditions before you spend any money.
3. Find a suitable course provider
After that, look at different colleges and training places. Compare their course details, how you will be tested, how you will learn, and the total cost. In addition, check how much help you will get. If a course gives you clear guidance and nice feedback, it will be much easier to finish your work.
4. Apply and enrol
Now, fill in the application form and send any documents the school asks for. However, before you pay, remember to ask about course access, payment options, deadline dates, and test help. If you need this qualification for a special job, speak to the boss first. Consequently, you can be sure the course is right for them.
5. Complete your lessons and assessments
During the course, work through every lesson and finish your tasks. Depending on your provider, you might also need to do a short practice teaching lesson. Furthermore, read your teacher’s advice carefully so you can make your work better. If you find a task hard, ask for help before your time runs out.
6. Gain your qualification and plan your next step
Finally, once you pass all your tasks, the course organisation will give you your qualification certificate! After that, you can look for exciting teaching or training jobs. Alternatively, you might want to get some work experience or study for an even higher teaching certificate.
What Are the Entry Requirements for an AET?
You do not usually need any teaching experience to start an Award in Education and Training (AET) course. However, different course providers have different rules, so it is always a good idea to check before you apply.
So, what do you need before you can begin? Here are the main things to think about:
- Age: Some training providers have an age limit. For example, RLSS UK says you must be at least 19 years old to take their AET course, but other places might have different rules.
- English skills: You need to read the course books, follow instructions, and write clear answers. Because of this, your provider might check your reading and writing skills first.
- Subject knowledge: You must know your subject well enough to explain it to others. On top of that, some teaching jobs might ask for a special qualification in your subject.
- Study skills: You should be ready to do written tasks, plan a mini-lesson, and learn from feedback. In addition, managing your time well will help you finish your work without rushing.
- Technology: If you choose to study online, you will need a computer or tablet and a good internet connection. Also, make sure you can log into the website and message your tutor when you need help.
In short, you do not always need GCSEs, a university degree, or past teaching experience to start. Even so, providers can add their own extra entry rules, so always ask them before you enrol. Finally, remember that joining a course is not the same as getting a job! Schools and colleges may ask for higher qualifications in English, maths, and teaching before they hire you.
What Do You Learn on an AET Course?
The Level 3 Award in Education and Training teaches you the main skills you need to teach and help adults learn. Although different course providers may set up their classes in slightly different ways, most AET courses focus on three main areas.
1. Understanding Your Role as a Teacher
You learn about the duties of a teacher and the important rules you must follow. This means you will learn how to spot what your students need, keep good records, and make sure your classroom is a safe place to learn. In addition, you will discover why clear talking is so important and how to work well with other staff.
2. Using Different Teaching Methods
Learn how to explain new ideas, plan fun activities, and keep your students interested. You will also find out how to change your teaching so it suits everyone in your class. For instance, you might teach a topic using a short talk, a reading task, a group discussion, or a hands-on demonstration.
3. Understanding Assessment
So, why is checking your students’ work so important? Checking their work helps you see what they already know and what they still need to learn. Because of this, your course shows you simple ways to check understanding, give helpful advice, and guide students to do better. These skills help you plan lessons with a clear goal, rather than just talking at your class.
Overall, an AET course gives you the starter tools you need to teach. You can use these practical skills in many training jobs, and you can build on them as you gain more experience or do higher-level training.
How Do You Pass an AET Course?
Passing an Award in Education and Training (AET) course is all about understanding your lessons and finishing all your tasks on time. Your training provider will tell you exactly what you need to do to pass. Usually, you will write some short assignments to show what you have learned. Additionally, you might need to teach a mini-lesson called a ‘micro-teach’ to show your practical skills.
To do well in your written work, always read each question carefully so you know what to write. Next, try to use real-life examples from your own work or school experience to make your answers clear. So, what should you do if you get stuck on a tricky question? You should ask your teacher for help as soon as possible so they can guide you before you make mistakes. Also, make sure to read your teacher’s feedback and fix any errors before handing in your final work.
When preparing for your micro-teach, plan your lesson step-by-step with clear goals and fun activities. Furthermore, practise speaking clearly before the big day so you feel confident. During your mini-lesson, talk to your students and ask them simple questions to see if they understand.
Final Thoughts on How to Get an AET
So, why take this step? You do it to share your skills. To help adults learn and grow. Because workplaces and colleges always need great trainers. Therefore, getting an AET qualification is a wonderful first choice. Sometimes, all it takes is one good lesson to show someone they can succeed.
Is an AET course right for you? Yes, if you want a simple and clear start in teaching. It is your first key to a bright and exciting future.
Ready to begin your new teaching journey? Visit School of Health Care now to find the right Level 3 AET course and your full potential!
FAQs
How much is an AET course?
An AET course may cost a few hundred pounds. RLSS UK lists its online course at £288 and its five-day classroom course at £336, including VAT.
How long does an AET course take?
AET courses can take a few days or several months. Your study format, provider and assessment schedule affect the time you need.
What is an AET qualification?
AET stands for Award in Education and Training. It is an introductory Level 3 qualification that teaches basic skills for teaching and training.
Is an AET a full teaching qualification?
No. An AET introduces teaching skills, but it does not provide the full training required for every teaching role.
Will a Level 3 AET course qualify me?
A Level 3 AET gives you an introductory teaching qualification. Your eligibility for a job depends on the employer, your subject knowledge and any extra requirements.
Can I complete the AET teaching qualification online?
Yes. Some providers offer online or distance-learning AET courses. Check whether you also need to complete a teaching demonstration or attend any sessions.
What can I do with AET Level 3?
You can explore suitable workplace training, adult learning and vocational training roles. Employers may ask for further qualifications or relevant work experience.
Can I get QTS for free?
You may find funded teacher training routes, but free training depends on your eligibility and the programme. Check the latest official guidance and ask your chosen provider about funding.