If you’re looking to move into education or training, you’ve likely come across two qualifications:

CAVA (Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement) and
AET (Level 3 Award in Education and Training)

They are often mentioned together, which can make them seem similar. In reality, they lead to different roles and serve different purposes.

This article will help you understand the difference and decide which one is right for you.

Prefer to watch instead?

We’ve put together a short video explaining how to become an assessor, including the qualifications you need and how the process works:

Watch the video below

What Is a CAVA Qualification?

CAVA is an assessor qualification. It prepares you to assess learners in both workplace and training environments.

As part of the course, you will learn how to observe learners, review evidence, make assessment decisions, and provide structured feedback.

If your goal is to assess learners and support them through qualifications, CAVA is the qualification you need.

What Is an AET Qualification?

AET is a teaching qualification. It focuses on how to plan, deliver, and evaluate learning.

You will learn how to structure sessions, engage learners, and manage a learning environment effectively.

If your goal is to teach, deliver training, or run workshops, AET is the appropriate starting point.

The Key Difference

The difference between the two is straightforward.

CAVA is focused on assessing competence. AET is focused on delivering learning.

An assessor judges whether a learner meets the required standard. A teacher or trainer helps the learner develop the knowledge and skills to reach that standard.

Do You Need CAVA or AET?

The right qualification depends on the role you want.

If you want to assess learners, work as an NVQ assessor, or support competence-based qualifications, CAVA is the correct route.

If you want to teach in further education, deliver training sessions, or support learning in a classroom or group setting, AET is the better option.

How CAVA and AET Link Together (RPL Explained)

One important point that is often overlooked is that these qualifications share common content.

The final unit of the AET qualification covers Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment. This is the same knowledge-based unit that forms Unit 1 of the CAVA qualification.

Because of this overlap, learners who complete AET can often use this unit as Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) when progressing onto CAVA.

In practical terms, this means:

– If you complete AET first, you may be able to start CAVA from Unit 2
– If you complete CAVA first, the same knowledge can support progression into teaching qualifications

This approach is widely used across the industry and helps avoid repeating the same content.

Can You Do Both?

Yes, and in many cases it is beneficial.

It is common within colleges and training providers for individuals to both deliver learning and assess learners. Holding both qualifications gives you more flexibility and can open up a wider range of opportunities.

Which Should You Choose First?

If you are unsure, focus on your immediate goal.

If you want to teach, start with AET. If you want to assess, start with CAVA.

You can always complete the second qualification later as your role develops.

How This Links to Becoming an Assessor

If your goal is to become an assessor, the pathway is clear. You need to understand the role, complete a recognised qualification, and gain practical experience with learners.

You can read a full breakdown here:
How to Become an Assessor in the UK (Step-by-Step Guide)

Start with the Right Course

If assessing is your focus, the next step is choosing the right qualification.

Explore the Level 3 CAVA Course here:
[Level 3 CAVA Course Online – Future Step Education]

This will give you a clear understanding of the requirements, structure, and how the course works in practice.

Final Thoughts

CAVA and AET are often confused, but they serve different purposes.

CAVA is for assessing. AET is for teaching.

They also complement each other, and in many cases, learners go on to complete both. With shared content between the two, you may not need to repeat certain units, which can make progression more efficient.

Once you are clear on the role you want, choosing the right qualification becomes straightforward.