Free Level 4 Education and Training Course. Study online, at your own pace, fitting learning around your existing work and commitments. This is a first-stage teaching qualification for people who are working, or want to work, as teachers or trainers in the further education and skills sector. You need access to 30 hours of teaching practice as part of the course. The course takes around 360 hours to complete. You should be qualified or experienced in the subject you plan to teach and have reasonable literacy, numeracy, and language skills.
Who this course is for
For candidates who work or who want to work as teachers/trainers in the further education and skills sector.
For candidates who have just started a teaching/training role.
For teachers/trainers who are seeking career progression in their area of work,
For candidates who work with learners on a one-to-one basis
For candidates who teach in industry.
For candidates who have already achieved some
Learning and Development units that can be carried forward into this qualification.
For candidates who are assessors and wish to achieve a teaching/training qualification.
For candidates who have completed the City and Guilds Trainer skills or introduction to training qualifications (7300,1103-01 or 6258).
Entry requirements
Candidates should be qualified/ experienced in the subject they intend to teach, have access to 30 teaching practice hours and possess reasonable levels of language, literacy and numeracy.
What you will learn
You'll develop the knowledge and skills needed to plan and deliver teaching sessions.
You'll learn how to assess learners and give constructive feedback.
You'll understand how to create an inclusive learning environment.
You'll explore theories of learning and how to apply them in practice.
You'll build skills in reflecting on and improving your own teaching practice.
You'll learn how to use resources effectively to support learners.
How you will learn
This is an in-service qualification, so you learn while working in a teaching or training role. You'll complete 30 hours of observed teaching practice. Assessment includes written assignments, a teaching practice portfolio, and observations of your sessions. Study is delivered online, letting you work through material at a pace that suits your schedule.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. National Star will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need access to a teaching or training environment where you can complete your 30 hours of practice.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Adult Educator: teach adults in further education colleges or training organisations
Vocational Trainer: deliver work-based or industry training programmes
Skills Tutor: support learners in literacy, numeracy, or vocational subjects
Learning and Development Facilitator: deliver training within a workplace setting
Community Learning Tutor: teach in community education or adult learning centres
Prison Education Tutor: deliver education programmes in custodial settings
What you could study next
City and Guilds Level 5 Diploma in Teaching: the next step for teachers in the further education and skills sector, leading toward full professional status.
PGCE in Post-Compulsory Education: a university-based route for those wanting a postgraduate teaching qualification recognised across FE and higher education.
Level 5 Education and Training qualifications in specialist areas such as literacy, numeracy, or ESOL teaching.
