Level 5 Further Education Teaching Course in Bishop Auckland. Evening classes run at Bishop Auckland College, so you can study around existing work or teaching commitments. This further education teaching qualification builds on introductory teaching experience. You'll explore curriculum planning, advanced teaching methods, assessment for learning, behaviour management, and reflective practice. The course takes one year part-time. Entry requires a Level 3 or higher subject specialism, the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training, GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 or above (or Level 2 Functional Skills), and access to a teaching or training setting.
Who this course is for
This advanced professional qualification develops the full range of knowledge, skills and behaviours required to become a competent and confident teacher in the Further Education and Skills sector. Building on introductory teaching experience, the programme explores curriculum planning, advanced teaching methodologies, assessment for learning, behaviour management, reflective practice, and the wider policy and professional landscape that shapes the sector. You will design and deliver learning for diverse groups of learners, engage in critical self-evaluation, develop a personal teaching philosophy, and participate in observations that support your ongoing professional growth. The programme integrates academic study with substantial teaching practice, ensuring you gain the practical competence and professional capability expected of a fully qualified FE & Skills teacher.
Entry requirements
Applicants should hold a subject specialism qualification at least Level 3 or higher; the Level 4 Certificate in Education & Training (CET) as well as GCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or above (or Level 2 Functional Skills). Applicants must also have access to teaching or training opportunities-either voluntary or paid- as they provide essential context for applying theory to practice.
What you will learn
You'll develop advanced teaching approaches grounded in learning theory and research.
You'll design schemes of work, session plans, and resources tailored to learner needs.
You'll apply assessment for learning strategies to track and support learner progress.
You'll manage behaviour and create inclusive learning environments for diverse groups.
You'll engage in critical self-evaluation and develop a personal teaching philosophy.
You'll participate in observed teaching practice with structured feedback for professional growth.
You'll analyse the policy and professional landscape that shapes the Further Education and Skills sector.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Bishop Auckland College combined with substantial teaching practice in your own setting. Assessment includes written assignments, lesson observations, reflective journals, and the development of a professional teaching portfolio. Academic study is integrated with practical application, so theory is tested directly against your classroom experience.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bishop Auckland College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
FE lecturer: teach your subject specialism in a college setting.
Trainer: deliver workplace or vocational training programmes.
Learning and development officer: design and run staff training in organisations.
Skills coach: support learners in work-based or apprenticeship programmes.
Adult education tutor: teach adults in community learning settings.
Curriculum coordinator: lead programme planning and quality in an FE college.
What you could study next
Level 6 Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Post-Compulsory Education: moves you toward Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status, recognised for teaching in FE.
A subject-specific degree or postgraduate qualification: deepens your specialism and can open doors to senior lecturer or curriculum leadership roles.
QTLS through the Society for Education and Training (SET): the professional status that places FE teachers on a par with school teachers in certain settings.
