Professionals Moving into Teaching
Use your industry expertise in teaching. Build skills for vocational, technical or academic programmes in colleges, training providers and adult education.
ONLINE QUALIFICATION
Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills) (RQF)
Study the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills) with flexible online learning and supervised practice. Build skills for teaching in colleges, independent training providers and adult education. Complete at least 250 placement hours, including 150 teaching hours, alongside your portfolio and observations.
Awarding organisationFocus Awards
Qualification number610/5281/4
Study modeFlexible Online Learning with Professional Teaching Practice
Duration18 months
Credits120
AssessmentPortfolio of Evidence, Teaching Practice, Professional Discussion and Observations
£765.00
Pay in full: £765.00. Or start with £14.99 and access your course after confirmed payment. Then pay 7 monthly instalments of £100.00 and a final instalment of £50.01. Total: £765.00, interest-free. First invoice issued 30 days after enrolment. Pay within 20 days of each invoice; overdue course access is suspended. Restore registration by paying the overdue instalment plus £25.00.
About This Qualification
The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills) (RQF) prepares you to teach in Further Education and Skills. It follows the Learning and Skills Teacher occupational standards.
Learn to plan lessons, teach your subject and check learner progress. Link what you study to real work in a college, training centre or adult learning setting. Use digital tools and adapt your teaching to meet different needs.
You must teach in a real setting. A supervisor supports your practice. You also take part in observations and reflect on your work. This evidence shows how you use your skills with learners.
The SJA Global Academia pathway includes optional units in:
- Developing specialist teaching resources
- Digital and online pedagogy
- Equality, diversity and inclusive practice
- Internal quality assurance principles
- Coaching within education and training
These units build on your main teaching skills. Learn to choose resources, support staff and help learners reach their goals.
To pass, meet each unit requirement and show your skills in practice. Your tutor helps you plan the evidence you need.
DET, DTLLS or DiT: Which Diploma Is Offered?
The course offered here is the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills), often shortened to DiT. It is a Level 5 teaching qualification combining knowledge with substantial supervised teaching practice. If you are comparing a DiT course with older routes, check the current title, units, placement requirements and assessment arrangements.
The Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training is commonly called DET. The government’s Diploma in Teaching qualification framework explains that DiT replaces DET. Searches for a DET course or DTLLS course may therefore lead you to information about earlier teaching qualifications. DTLLS means Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector.
These names should not be treated as identical course specifications. If you already hold a previous qualification, ask SJA to review your evidence and intended progression before assuming you need to repeat a full diploma. Completing the diploma does not automatically award QTLS; Professional Formation and eligibility requirements apply separately.
Who Is This Course For?
The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching develops knowledge, skills and competence for teaching in the Further Education and Skills sector. Use the course to build on existing experience or start your teaching development. It combines practical and academic learning.
It is particularly suitable for:
Existing Teachers Without a Full Teaching Qualification
Already teaching without a full recognised FE qualification? Work towards the diploma while developing your classroom practice.
Trainers and Workplace Learning Professionals
Gain a recognised Level 5 award. Build skills to plan, deliver and review workplace learning and professional training.
Adult Education Tutors
Develop teaching methods for adults with different backgrounds. Use inclusive, engaging approaches to support their learning.
Independent Training Provider Staff
Develop curriculum plans, learner assessment and digital teaching. Reflect on your practice in independent training.
Individuals Seeking Career Progression
Build skills for future development. You may consider lead tutor, curriculum coordinator, programme manager or education leadership roles, subject to their requirements.
What You Will Learn
Throughout the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching, you build knowledge and practical skills as a Further Education teacher. Combine teaching theory with supervised practice. Apply what you learn in a real teaching setting.
By the end of the programme, you will be able to:
Plan Outstanding Learning
Create schemes of work, lesson plans and activities. Meet curriculum requirements and respond to different learner needs.
Deliver Engaging Teaching Sessions
Use different teaching methods and active learning. Manage the classroom and create an inclusive setting that motivates learners.
Assess Learner Progress
Use formative and summative assessment to check achievement. Give useful feedback and support improvement.
Support Inclusive Learning
Explore equality, diversity and inclusive practice. Plan ways for learners with different backgrounds and needs to take part and achieve.
Use Digital Learning Technologies
Plan online and blended learning. Use suitable digital tools and resources to involve learners.
Create High-Quality Learning Resources
Design and adapt specialist resources. Review how they help learners take part and support the curriculum.
Reflect on Professional Practice
Review your teaching and identify strengths. Plan improvements and keep developing your skills.
Understand Quality Assurance Principles
Learn internal quality assurance processes. Explore how consistent assessment decisions help maintain standards.
Develop Coaching Skills
Learn coaching techniques to support each learner’s goals. Encourage motivation, independence, confidence and achievement.
Build Professional Confidence
Complete supervised teaching practice and professional observations that demonstrate your ability to teach safely, effectively and professionally within the Further Education and Skills sector.
Qualification Structure / Units
Qualification Structure
The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills) is a comprehensive occupational Further Education teaching qualification regulated by Ofqual and awarded by Focus Awards. To achieve the qualification, learners must successfully complete 120 credits comprising 90 mandatory credits and a minimum of 30 optional credits, in accordance with the Focus Awards Rules of Combination.
At SJA Global Academia, our selected optional units broaden your learning. Develop resources, explore equality and diversity, and learn coaching and IQA principles. These subjects support wider professional development in education and training.
You must complete every mandatory unit below. They cover the knowledge, teaching practice and digital skills expected of a qualified Further Education teacher.
| Unit Code | Unit Title | Level | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| K/651/4745 | Teaching My Subject | 5 | 15 |
| L/651/4746 | Learners and Learning | 5 | 15 |
| M/651/4747 | Teachers and Teaching | 5 | 15 |
| R/651/4748 | Professional Practice | 5 | 30 |
| T/651/4749 | Effective Digital and Online Pedagogies | 5 | 15 |
Mandatory Credits: 90
SJA Global Academia Optional Units (30 Credits)
To complete the qualification, learners must also achieve 30 credits from the optional unit group. SJA Global Academia has selected the following combination to provide a broader and more commercially valuable learning experience.
| Unit Code | Unit Title | Level | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| H/507/9049 | Developing, Using and Organising Resources in a Specialist Area | 5 | 15 |
| H/507/9066 | Understanding the Principles and Practices of Internally Assuring the Quality of Assessment | 4 | 6 |
| H/507/9052 | Equality and Diversity | 4 | 6 |
| J/507/9058 | Preparing for the Coaching Role | 4 | 3 |
Optional Credits: 30
Why Has SJA Selected These Optional Units?
Many providers simply deliver the minimum optional units required to achieve the qualification. At SJA Global Academia, we have deliberately chosen optional units that enhance your professional capability and prepare you for a wider range of teaching and education roles.
Develop High-Quality Teaching Resources
Learn how to design, adapt and evaluate specialist teaching resources that improve learner engagement, accessibility and achievement.
Promote Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Develop the knowledge required to create inclusive learning environments where all learners feel valued, respected and supported to succeed.
Understand Internal Quality Assurance
Gain valuable knowledge of internal quality assurance principles, helping you understand how assessment decisions are standardised and quality assured across education and training organisations.
Develop Coaching Skills
Build practical coaching techniques that support learner motivation, confidence, independence and professional growth.
Entry Requirements
Before enrolling on the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills), check its academic, professional and practical requirements. This Level 5 teaching qualification is for people developing as professional teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector and requires teaching practice in a suitable setting.
At SJA Global Academia, our admissions team reviews your application. We help you check whether you can meet the academic and practical requirements.
English Language Requirement
You need English skills suitable for Level 5 study. The course includes lesson planning, academic writing, professional discussions and a teaching portfolio.
You should be able to:
- Read and interpret educational guidance and professional documentation.
- Produce written assignments and reflective evaluations.
- Communicate effectively with learners, colleagues and assessors.
- Participate confidently in professional discussions and teaching observations.
You must have achieved Level 2 English before starting this programme. SJA checks your evidence of achievement during admissions.
Mathematics Requirement
You must have achieved Level 2 maths before starting this programme. You also need numeracy skills suitable for teaching your specialist subject.
Subject Knowledge
You should have suitable knowledge of the subject you plan to teach. This may come from vocational, academic or professional experience. Use it to plan and deliver learning that meets curriculum requirements.
Examples include:
- Health and Social Care
- Business and Management
- Education and Training
- Engineering
- Construction
- Information Technology
- Functional Skills
- Hospitality
- Early Years
- Public Services
- Hair and Beauty
- Sport and Fitness
Access to a Suitable Teaching Placement
Because the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching is an occupational qualification, learners must have access to a suitable teaching placement for the required teaching practice and observations. This is essential. Simulated activities cannot replace it.
Digital Skills
As this teacher training course online is delivered through our virtual learning environment, learners should have:
- Basic computer skills.
- Reliable internet access.
- A laptop or desktop computer.
- The ability to create and upload documents.
- Access to video conferencing software for online tutorials where required.
Commitment to Professional Development
This programme requires independent study, reflective practice and continuous professional development. Learners should be prepared to:
- Plan and evaluate teaching sessions.
- Maintain professional records.
- Complete portfolio evidence.
- Reflect on teaching observations.
- Engage with tutor feedback.
- Develop their teaching practice throughout the programme.
Entry Requirements Checklist
Before enrolling, you should be able to answer Yes to the following. Ask SJA to check your eligibility if you are unsure:
- I am at least 18 years old.
- I have achieved Level 2 English.
- I have achieved Level 2 maths.
- I have suitable qualifications or experience in the subject I plan to teach.
- I have access to a suitable teaching placement and the required practice hours.
- I have a computer, reliable internet access and the digital skills needed for study.
- I can commit to teaching practice, observations and portfolio evidence.
Practical / Workplace Requirements
250 Hours of Placement Practice
The placement must total at least 250 hours, including at least 150 hours of teaching practice. The remaining placement hours develop your wider professional practice. They may include planning, meetings, observing others and professional development.
Keep a log of your placement hours and teaching activities. Check your placement and evidence plan with SJA before enrolment. Read the Focus Awards qualification specification for the full requirements.
The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching is an occupational teaching qualification. You must demonstrate competence through real teaching practice in a suitable Further Education or Skills setting.
Professional practice is a key part of the course. Apply teaching theory in real settings and receive structured feedback from experienced professionals.
Teaching Practice
Learners must complete a minimum of:
150 Hours of Teaching Practice
Plan, deliver and review teaching sessions in your own specialist subject area.
Teaching practice allows you to:
- Build confidence.
- Develop professional teaching skills.
- Apply learning theories.
- Improve classroom management.
- Strengthen learner engagement.
- Develop reflective practice.
Subject-Specific Teaching
Of the required teaching practice:
At least 100 hours must be delivered within your own specialist subject area.
This links your practice to the subject you plan to teach.
Face-to-Face and Live Online Teaching
Teaching practice should include a balanced range of delivery methods, including:
- Minimum 80 hours of face-to-face teaching
- Minimum 20 hours of live remote teaching
Teaching in Different Learning Environments
Gain experience at two teaching locations. The second placement must last at least 20 hours, normally with another provider. If that is not possible, it may involve a different subject or venue at the same provider. These 20 hours may cover wider professional practice rather than teaching.
Teaching Observations
During the programme, your teaching will be formally observed to assess your professional competence.
The qualification requires:
- 10 observed teaching sessions completed across your programme.
Use observation feedback to develop. The sessions also show how you apply teaching methods in practice.
Professional Discussion
Towards the end of the programme, you will complete a minimum 30-minute professional discussion with your assessor. Use the discussion to show your knowledge, reflection and understanding of teaching principles.
Mentor Support
You should have access to a suitable mentor or experienced colleague during practice. They can guide your development and help you improve your teaching.
Portfolio of Evidence
Evidence collected throughout the programme may include:
- Lesson plans.
- Schemes of work.
- Teaching resources.
- Observation reports.
- Learner feedback.
- Reflective journals.
- Assessment records.
- Professional discussions.
- Witness testimonies.
- Tutor feedback.
Together, these demonstrate that you have achieved the knowledge, skills and behaviours required of a qualified Further Education teacher.
How You Will Be Assessed
The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching uses practical teaching, reflection and evidence gathered throughout the course. There are no final written examinations. Show your knowledge, skills and competence through a portfolio and real teaching practice.
Assessment reflects the qualification’s occupational purpose. Apply learning in your teaching setting, with support and feedback from your assessor.
Portfolio of Evidence
Throughout the programme, you will build a professional portfolio demonstrating that you have met all learning outcomes and assessment criteria.
Your portfolio may include:
- Written Assignments
- Lesson plans
- Schemes of work
- Session evaluations
- Reflective journals
- Teaching resources
- Assessment records
- Learner feedback
- Professional discussions
- Observation reports
- Witness testimonies
- Professional development records
Your assessor reviews your portfolio throughout the course. Use their feedback to improve your evidence and practice.
Teaching Observations
As part of your professional practice, you will complete 10 formal teaching observations. These observations enable your assessor to evaluate how effectively you:
- Plan learning.
- Deliver engaging teaching sessions.
- Differentiate learning activities.
- Manage learners professionally.
- Assess learner progress.
- Reflect on and improve your teaching practice.
Observations help you develop and assess your competence. Use them to build confidence and show your skills.
Professional Discussion
Towards the end of the programme, you will participate in a minimum 30-minute professional discussion. Show your knowledge, explain teaching decisions and reflect on your practice.
Discuss how teaching theory has shaped your practice and development.
Continuous Assessment
Your progress is assessed throughout the programme rather than at a single point in time.
This means you receive:
- Regular tutor feedback.
- Ongoing portfolio reviews.
- Support to improve evidence.
- Guidance before observations.
- Opportunities to reflect and develop.
This continuous assessment model helps you build confidence while ensuring you fully achieve the requirements of the Further Education teaching qualification.
Assessment Summary
| Assessment Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Portfolio of Evidence | Collection of evidence demonstrating achievement of all assessment criteria |
| Teaching Practice | Practical teaching completed within an approved teaching environment |
| Teaching Observations | 10 observed teaching sessions |
| Professional Discussion | Minimum 30-minute discussion with your assessor |
| Reflective Practice | Continuous evaluation of your teaching and professional development |
| Tutor Feedback | Ongoing developmental support throughout the programme |
No Traditional Exams
One of the advantages of this teacher training course online is assessment through professional performance, with no final written exam. Show your competence in genuine teaching situations and develop practical skills.
How Online Learning Works
Study the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching online with SJA Global Academia. Choose study times that fit your work and home life. You must also teach in an approved Further Education or Skills setting.
Plan Your Study
You do not attend a weekly classroom course. Read the lessons when it suits you. Set aside time each week to study, teach and prepare your evidence.
- Study in the evening or at weekends.
- Keep working while you learn.
- Go back to a topic when you need more practice.
- Plan deadlines with your tutor.
Use Your Course Materials
Log in to the learner portal for lessons, reading and tasks. You also receive slides, assessment guides, portfolio templates and tutor updates.
Read each task before you begin. Keep notes as you study. Use the guides to plan what you need to show for each unit.
Teach in a Real Setting
Online study does not replace teaching practice. Work with your approved placement to plan lessons and gain real experience. Your tutor guides you through the course.
Tutor Support
Choosing the right training provider is just as important as choosing the right qualification. At SJA Global Academia, every learner studying the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching is supported by experienced tutors who understand both the academic requirements of the qualification and the practical realities of teaching within the Further Education and Skills sector.
Tutors guide you from enrolment to certification. Ask for help at each stage as you develop skills and confidence.
Your Tutor Will Support You With
Understanding Unit Requirements
Get guidance on each learning outcome and assessment criterion. Check what is expected before starting your work.
Portfolio Development
Organise and present evidence of your knowledge, teaching practice and competence.
Assignment Feedback
Receive feedback on strengths and areas to improve. Use it to plan your development.
Teaching Practice Guidance
Your tutor will help you understand professional practice requirements, prepare for observations and reflect on your teaching experience.
Observation Preparation
Receive advice on planning lessons, managing learners and demonstrating effective teaching techniques before formal observations.
Professional Discussion Preparation
Build confidence before your professional discussion through structured guidance and reflective questioning.
Certification & Recognition
Complete the programme to achieve the Focus Awards Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills) (RQF). It is a regulated qualification within England’s Regulated Qualifications Framework. It prepares teachers for work in the Further Education and Skills sector.
SJA Certification Process
After you formally complete all qualification requirements:
- Your assessor checks that you have met every assessment criterion.
- Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) checks your portfolio and the assessment decisions.
- External Quality Assurance (EQA) and awarding organisation requirements may also apply.
- Provide any extra evidence or clarification requested during the quality checks. Certification must wait until this is complete.
- Certification usually takes 3–5 weeks after formal completion. Quality assurance and awarding organisation processing must be complete.
- You receive an e-certificate after successful certification.
- A printed certificate costs an extra £7 plus postage or courier charges. This applies to UK and international delivery.
Certification follows successful assessment and quality assurance. It cannot be guaranteed before those checks are complete.
Career Opportunities
The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching can support teaching and training careers in Further Education and Skills. Develop practical teaching, digital learning and wider education knowledge. Employers set their own requirements for each role.
Depending on your experience, subject specialism and employer requirements, you may progress into roles such as:
Further Education Teacher
Teach vocational, technical or academic programmes within colleges and Further Education institutions
Adult Education Tutor
Support adult learners returning to education, developing new skills or progressing into employment.
Vocational Trainer
Deliver industry-specific training programmes for apprentices, employers or professional organisations.
Apprenticeship Trainer
Plan, deliver and assess apprenticeship programmes while supporting learners in the workplace.
Functional Skills Tutor
Teach English, mathematics or digital skills to learners preparing for employment or further study.
Workplace Learning & Development Trainer
Design and deliver staff development programmes within public, private and third-sector organisations.
Progression Routes
After successfully completing the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills), you may be able to progress towards Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status, subject to meeting the current eligibility requirements set by the Education Training Foundation.
QTLS is a professional status for teachers and trainers in Further Education and Skills. You achieve it separately through Professional Formation. This needs evidence of current teaching, professional development and reflection. You must meet the eligibility rules in force when you apply.
Achieving the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching therefore provides an important progression route for learners who wish to pursue QTLS and strengthen their professional standing as teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.
Why Choose SJA?
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The academic content is delivered through flexible online learning. However, you must also complete the required professional teaching practice within an appropriate teaching environment.
Yes. You need a suitable teaching placement for at least 250 placement hours, including 150 teaching hours. You must also complete observations and portfolio evidence. Ask SJA to check your placement arrangements before enrolling.
No. The qualification is assessed through a portfolio of evidence, teaching observations, professional discussion and workplace practice. There are no traditional final examinations.
You will receive support from an experienced tutor who will guide you through the qualification, provide assessment feedback and help you prepare for teaching observations and professional discussions.
Yes. After successfully completing the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills), you may be able to apply for Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) through the Education Training Foundation (ETF), provided you meet the eligibility requirements in place at the time of application.
QTLS is not automatically awarded when you complete the Level 5 Diploma. It is a separate professional status gained through a professional formation process, and applicants must meet requirements relating to their teaching qualification, current teaching practice, English and mathematics qualifications, subject qualifications and professional support.
We strongly recommend checking the current QTLS eligibility requirements before applying. As an education and training centre, SJA Global Academia can provide guidance and support to help you prepare your QTLS application and supporting evidence for submission; however, eligibility and the final decision to award QTLS remain with the relevant professional body.
Start Your Level 5 Diploma in Teaching Today
Work towards the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching with flexible online study and tutor support. Complete teaching practice in a real educational setting and build your professional portfolio. Check that you can meet the placement and assessment requirements before you enrol. SJA can help you plan your next step in Further Education and Skills teaching.