Get into Teaching! Training to Teach in Further Education

Get into Teaching! Training to Teach in FE

Thinking About a Career in Teaching?

If you’re looking for a rewarding career where you can share your expertise, inspire others, and shape the future, teaching might be the perfect path for you. But what if you don’t have a traditional teaching qualification?

Good news—you don’t need a PGCE to start teaching in Further Education (FE)! Many people assume that becoming a teacher means completing a university degree and a school-based teacher training programme. However, if you’re interested in teaching adults, college students, or apprentices, the Further Education sector offers a flexible, accessible, and highly rewarding route into teaching.

Since 2016, Future Step Education has helped thousands of learners qualify and secure teaching roles in Further Education. We know exactly what it takes to succeed in this sector, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way—helping you gain the right qualifications, skills, and confidence to land your ideal teaching job.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to get into teaching in Further Education, the qualifications you need, and how to start your teaching journey today.

What is Further Education (FE)?

Further Education covers post-16 education, meaning it includes colleges, sixth forms, adult education, apprenticeships, and workplace training. Unlike primary and secondary school teaching, FE teachers work with learners who are typically aged 16 and over, helping them gain qualifications, develop skills, and prepare for careers.

FE teaching is ideal for:

Industry professionals who want to share their skills.
Career changers looking for a new and rewarding role.
Existing trainers, tutors, or assessors wanting to gain a formal qualification.
University graduates interested in teaching but not in schools.

You could be teaching anything from A-Levels and BTECs to apprenticeships, vocational courses, and adult education.

Do I Need a PGCE to Teach in Further Education?

No! Unlike school teaching (which requires Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)), teaching in Further Education does not require a PGCE or QTS. Instead, FE teachers usually complete the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching, which can lead to Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status.

Many colleges, training providers, and adult education centres hire teachers who are working towards their teaching qualification. This means you can start teaching while you train.

The Best Route to Teaching in Further Education: Level 5 Diploma in Teaching

The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching is the main teaching qualification for the Further Education sector. This qualification has recently replaced the Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET) to ensure a more up-to-date and comprehensive approach to training new FE teachers. It is widely recognised and can lead to QTLS, which is the FE equivalent of QTS.

What You’ll Learn in the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching:

Teaching methods – how to engage learners and plan lessons.
Classroom management – managing different learning styles and abilities.
Assessment techniques – marking, feedback, and evaluating student progress.
Safeguarding & Inclusion – making learning accessible and inclusive.
Teaching in your subject area – applying your industry expertise in an FE setting.

Once you’ve completed your Level 5 Diploma in Teaching, you can apply for QTLS status, which is awarded by the Society for Education and Training (SET). This makes you a fully qualified Further Education teacher, opening doors to a wide range of teaching jobs in colleges, training centres, and adult education providers.

Why Choose Teaching in Further Education?

Teaching in Further Education offers many benefits, especially if you’re looking for a flexible and rewarding career.

Teach what you know – Share your expertise in a subject you love.
No PGCE required – A direct route into teaching without extra years at university.
Work in a variety of settings – Teach in colleges, sixth forms, private training providers, and apprenticeships.
Career progression – Gain QTLS and move into leadership roles.
Flexible working options – Full-time, part-time, and sessional roles available.

Whether you’re switching careers, upskilling, or just starting out, FE teaching gives you the opportunity to make a real impact while enjoying job flexibility.

How to Get Started with Your Teaching Journey

If you’re ready to get into teaching, here’s how to take the first step:

Step 1: Choose Your Subject

Consider what you want to teach—vocational skills, academic subjects, apprenticeships, or adult education. FE teaching is ideal for professionals who want to pass on their industry experience.

Step 2: Get the Right Qualification

Enrol in the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching. At Future Step Education, we offer a fully accredited course designed to help you train while you work.

Step 3: Gain Teaching Experience

Many FE providers hire trainee teachers while they work towards their qualifications. You can also volunteer, shadow experienced teachers, or apply for part-time teaching assistant roles to build experience.

Step 4: Apply for QTLS

Once you’ve completed your Level 5 Diploma in Teaching, you can apply for QTLS status, which gives you full qualified teaching recognition in FE.

Step 5: Start Your Teaching Career!

With your qualification and experience, you can now apply for teaching jobs in Further Education and start making a difference in learners’ lives.

FAQs About Getting Into Teaching in Further Education

Can I teach in FE without a degree?

Yes! Many FE teachers don’t have a degree but have industry experience. The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching is the key qualification needed.

How long does it take to become an FE teacher?

The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching can be completed in 12-18 months, and you can often start teaching while you study.

What’s the difference between QTLS and QTS?

QTLS is for Further Education teachers, while QTS is for school teachers. QTLS allows you to teach in colleges, training providers, and adult education centres. We have a separate article on this subject which you can find here – [insert link].

Start Your Teaching Journey Today!

If you’re ready to get into teaching and start a rewarding career in Further Education, we’re here to help.

At Future Step Education, we provide expert-led training, personalised support, and flexible study options to help you qualify as an FE teacher.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help you start your journey.

Enrol now or call us on 0203 633 84 04