Frequently asked questions about becoming an FE teacher
Changing careers is a big decision, and it is natural to have questions about qualifications, funding, and what daily life is really like in Further Education (FE). Whether you are confused about the difference between teaching levels or want to know if your industry experience counts, we have compiled the most common questions to help you navigate your journey into the profession.
Qualifications and entry requirements
What qualifications do I need to start teaching in FE?
You do not always need a formal teaching qualification to start. Many colleges offer "on-the-job" teacher training, allowing you to start work and gain your teaching qualifications simultaneously. Generally, you will need:
- Subject Expertise: A minimum of a Level 3 qualification in your subject, or significant industry experience.
- Basic Skills: Level 2 qualifications (GCSE grade 4/C) in English and maths. If you lack these, your employer may support you to gain them.
View full qualification requirements
Do I need a degree to teach in FE?
No. This is one of the biggest myths about the sector.
- Vocational subjects: For trades like construction, hair and beauty, or engineering, your industry experience and Level 3 professional qualifications are highly valued. You generally do not need a degree.
- Academic subjects: To teach A-levels or similar, you will usually need a degree in that specific subject. See which courses you could teach
Can my industry experience count towards a teaching role?
Yes. Significant industry experience is your most valuable asset in FE, particularly for vocational and technical subjects. Colleges hire experts because they want students to learn current, real-world skills. Your career history serves as your "subject qualification," and your employer will simply support you to learn the pedagogical (teaching) skills once you start.
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Understanding training and levels
What are the main teaching qualifications for the FE sector?
The primary, recognised full teaching qualification is the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills). This is the industry standard. Graduates can also take university-linked routes such as the Level 6 Professional Graduate Certificate (ProfGCE) or the Level 7 Postgraduate Certificate (PGCE). All of these pathways lead to fully qualified status. A teaching qualification is not essential to start teaching in FE. Many colleges will support unqualified teachers in getting qualified while they teach.
Explore qualification pathways
Which qualification levels am I teaching vs training for?
It is important to distinguish between what you teach and what you study:
- Learner Qualifications: As an FE teacher, you will teach students who are studying towards qualifications from Level 3 (A-levels/T Levels) up to Level 6 or higher (Degrees/HNCs).
- Your Training: Your own professional teacher training qualification will typically be at Level 5, 6, or 7. Read our guide to qualification levels
What is Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status?
QTLS is a professional status, not a qualification. You achieve it after completing your Level 5 teaching qualification and a period of professional formation with the Society for Education and Training (SET). Crucially, holding QTLS is recognised in law as equivalent to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in schools, allowing you to teach across the education system.
Where can I find more information and training opportunities?
You can use the tools on this website to find funding or search for jobs. You can also contact local FE colleges and training providers directly. Their HR departments can often advise on specific entry requirements for their current vacancies.