Level 3 Award in Education & training (RQF) training course

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COURSE OVERVIEW

The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (RQF) is a nationally recognised teaching qualification designed for anyone who wants to teach in the post-16 or adult education sector.

Whether you're a therapist, beauty professional, fitness trainer, complementary therapist or industry expert, this qualification provides the knowledge and confidence to begin your teaching journey.

You'll learn how to plan engaging lessons, deliver effective training, assess learners fairly and create a positive learning experience, while receiving ongoing support from experienced tutors.

Unlike many online teaching qualifications, we don't leave you to complete your microteach alone. We provide live tutor support before and during your microteaching assessment, giving you real-time feedback, encouragement and the confidence to succeed.

Our qualifications are Ofqual-regulated, giving you a recognised qualification that can open doors to employment, progression, and running your own training courses.


Choose your study route

We offer this qualification through different awarding organisations depending on where you live and how you'd like to study.

💻 Fully online learning

Awarding Organisation: Focus Awards

Perfect if you want maximum flexibility.

✔ Study completely online

✔ Learn at your own pace

✔ Live online tutor support

✔ Microteach completed online via live video

✔ Ideal for learners throughout England and Northern Ireland


🏫 Blended learning

Awarding Organisation: VTCT Skills

Perfect if you'd like the flexibility of online learning with face-to-face assessment.

✔ Study theory through our online learning portal

✔ Learn at your own pace

✔ Attend our Bideford training centre for your microteach practical assessment

✔ Face-to-face tutor support and feedback

✔ Ideal for learners who prefer some classroom learning


📍 Important eligibility information

Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Education and Training is available to learners living in England and Northern Ireland.

VTCT Skills is delivered as a blended learning programme through our Bideford training centre.

If you live outside these areas or are unsure which pathway is most suitable, please contact us before enrolling and we'll be happy to advise. Is this course right for you?

This qualification is ideal if you:

✔ Want to teach the skills you've developed throughout your career

✔ Would like to deliver your own workshops or training courses

✔ Own a salon, clinic or business and want to train your own staff

✔ Are interested in becoming an assessor or internal quality assurer in the future

✔ Would like to gain a recognised teaching qualification

✔ Want to inspire others by sharing your knowledge and experience


WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

During this qualification, whether you choose Focus Awards or VTCT, you'll develop the knowledge and practical skills to:

📌 Understand the roles and responsibilities of a teacher or trainer

📌 Plan engaging and inclusive learning sessions

📌 Create professional schemes of work and lesson plans

📌 Deliver effective teaching sessions

📌 Assess learners fairly and provide constructive feedback

📌 Understand legislation, safeguarding, equality and diversity

📌 Create a positive and supportive learning environment

📌 Reflect on your teaching practice and continually improve


Why learners choose HTTA

Learning to teach can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to.

Many providers simply give you access to online learning materials before asking you to record your microteach and upload it for assessment.


At Holistic Therapies Training Academy, we believe you deserve more support than that.

Our learners benefit from:

✨ Experienced tutors who have taught hundreds of learners

✨ Friendly, approachable support throughout your studies

✨ Personalised feedback on your work

✨ Flexible learning around work and family commitments

✨ Guidance before your microteach so you feel fully prepared

✨ A supportive learning environment that builds your confidence as a teacher

You're never left wondering whether you're doing things correctly; we're here to help every step of the way.


Common questions

"I've never taught before."

That's exactly why this qualification exists.

We'll guide you through everything from planning your first lesson to delivering your microteach with confidence. "I'm nervous about standing up in front of people."

Most new teachers feel exactly the same.

We'll help you prepare thoroughly, practise your teaching skills and build your confidence before your assessment. "I work full-time."

No problem.

Both study routes are designed to fit around work, family, and existing commitments. "Is this qualification recognised?"

Yes.

Both Focus Awards & VTCT qualifications are Ofqual regulated qualification, making it widely recognised by employers, awarding organisations and training providers.


Career opportunities

After successfully completing this qualification, you could:

✨ Deliver your own professional training courses

✨ Teach within private training academies

✨ Deliver in-house staff training

✨ Become a freelance trainer

✨ Progress to Assessor qualifications

✨ Progress to Internal Quality Assurance (IQA)

✨ Continue onto the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training


Why choose Holistic Therapies Training Academy?

At Holistic Therapies Training Academy, we believe becoming a great teacher is about more than simply gaining a qualification.

It's about developing the confidence to inspire others, share your knowledge and create meaningful learning experiences.

Our experienced tutors combine years of industry knowledge with practical teaching expertise, giving you the support you need to succeed.

Whether your goal is to teach occasional workshops, deliver accredited qualifications or build your own successful training academy, we're here to help you every step of the way.



Your next step

Whether you're ready to teach your first workshop or you're planning a long-term career in education, the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (RQF) is the perfect place to start.

If you're unsure which study route is right for you, we'd be delighted to help.

📩 Contact us today, and we'll guide you to the most suitable qualification for your location, learning style, and career goals.


WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE OVER OTHERS? 📌 Many providers offer self-study teacher training with little or no tutor contact — great if you’re highly independent, but not ideal if you’re nervous about assessments or need step-by-step guidance.

📌 Some courses are only ABT-accredited and not Ofqual-regulated. While cheaper, they don’t carry the same recognition or progression routes into colleges, approved centres, or funded training.

✨ But rest assured, our course is Ofqual-regulated, VTCT or Focus Awards approved, online with live tutor support, and designed specifically for professionals in the beauty, holistic, sports, and complementary therapy industries

FAQ's

Q. Why should I take the Level 3 Award in Education & Training?
Most learners enrol because they're ready to share their knowledge, develop their career, or create additional income.

Our past learners have used this qualification to:
✔ Teach specialist subjects such as massage, beauty, holistic therapies and laser treatments
✔ Set up their own academy or training business
✔ Train staff within their own salon, clinic or workplace
✔ Create CPD workshops and short courses
✔ Build confidence as a professional trainer and educator

Whether you're looking for a complete career change or simply want to add teaching to your existing business, this qualification is the perfect place to start.

Q. What opportunities could this qualification lead to?
After successfully completing the qualification, you could:

✔ Teach within private academies, salons, and spas
✔ Deliver your own workshops and CPD courses
✔ Create online courses and live training programmes
✔ Deliver workplace and in-house staff training
✔ Work as a freelance trainer
✔ Progress onto Assessor and Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) qualifications
✔ Continue your teaching journey with the Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training

Q. How do I choose the right study route?
We offer two ways to complete this qualification.

Fully Online (Focus Awards)
Ideal if you live in England or Northern Ireland and would like to study entirely online with live tutor support and an online microteach.

Blended Learning (VTCT Skills)
Perfect if you'd like to study online while completing your microteach and practical assessment face-to-face at our Bideford training centre.

If you're unsure which route is right for you, simply get in touch and we'll be happy to advise.

Q. What should I look for when choosing a training provider?
Choosing the right training provider can make all the difference to your learning experience.

We recommend looking for:
✔ An Ofqual-regulated qualification
✔ Experienced tutors with real industry experience
✔ Flexible study options
✔ Ongoing tutor support and feedback
✔ Clear learning materials
✔ A friendly and supportive learning environment
✔ Excellent learner reviews and testimonials

Q. What concerns do learners usually have before starting?
Feeling nervous is completely normal.

Some of the most common concerns we hear include:

"I've never taught before."
Don't worry—this qualification is designed for beginners and we'll guide you every step of the way.

"I'm nervous about my microteach."
We'll help you prepare thoroughly so you feel confident before your assessment.

"Will I have enough time?"
Our flexible learning options allow you to study around work, family and other commitments.

"I'm not very academic."
You don't need to be. We provide friendly guidance, clear resources and personalised tutor feedback throughout the course.

Q. How is the course delivered?
We offer two flexible study options.

Fully Online
Self-paced online learning
Live tutor support
Online microteach assessment
Flexible around your lifestyle

OR,

Blended Learning
Online learning portal
Self-paced theory study
Face-to-face microteach and practical assessment in Bideford
Personal tutor support throughout

Q. What support will I receive?
When you study with Holistic Therapies Training Academy, you'll receive:

✔ A dedicated tutor
✔ Personalised feedback on your coursework
✔ Live support sessions
✔ Structured online learning materials
✔ Guidance before your microteach
✔ Friendly support whenever you need it

We pride ourselves on being approachable and supportive throughout your learning journey.

Q. Do I need previous teaching experience?
No.
This qualification is specifically designed for people with professional or industry experience who want to learn how to teach.
You don't need any previous teaching qualifications or classroom experience.
We'll show you how to plan, deliver, and assess engaging learning sessions with confidence.

Q. What can I do after completing the qualification?
Many of our learners go on to:

✔ Launch their own training academies
✔ Deliver accredited and CPD training
✔ Teach specialist treatments and therapies
✔ Train staff within salons, spas and clinics
✔ Create online education programmes
✔ Deliver refresher and advanced practitioner training
✔ Continue their teaching qualifications and progress into quality assurance roles

Q. What could I earn as a qualified educator?
Teaching can become an excellent additional income stream alongside your existing business.

If you work for a training provider, college or academy, your earnings will depend on the organisation, your experience and the role you undertake.

However, many learners choose to build their own training business, where the earning potential can be significantly greater.

By running your own academy, you can:
✔ Teach groups of learners rather than one client at a time
✔ Generate income from multiple courses throughout the year
✔ Create accredited qualifications and CPD workshops
✔ Develop online courses that continue to generate income after they've been created
✔ Train your own staff while also welcoming external paying learners
✔ Build a team of tutors, allowing your academy to earn income even when you're not personally teaching

Unlike hands-on therapy work, where your income is often limited by the number of appointments you can physically deliver, an education business offers opportunities to grow, diversify and scale your income over time.

Whether you simply want to teach occasionally or dream of building your own successful training academy, this qualification provides the first step towards making that happen.

Is this qualification recognised?
Yes.

The Level 3 Award in Education and Training is an Ofqual-regulated qualification.

Depending on the study route you choose, your qualification will be awarded by either Focus Awards (fully online route) or VTCT Skills (blended learning route).

Both are recognised awarding organisations regulated by Ofqual, giving you a respected qualification that can support career progression, employment opportunities and further study.

Testimonials / reviews

Course Fee:

£597

(Pay in full or pay monthly)

Course Dates & Delivery


Choose the study route that best suits your learning style and location.


💻 Route 1 – Fully Online (Focus Awards)

Awarding Organisation: Focus Awards


Designed for learners in England and Northern Ireland who would like to complete the qualification entirely online.


How you'll study

✔ Self-paced online learning through our learning portal

✔ Monthly live online tutor support sessions

✔ Personal tutor guidance and feedback

✔ Live online microteach assessment via video call

✔ Live Tutor Support Sessions


Time: 10:30 am – 11:30 am

2026 Dates:

Thursday 10 September

Thursday 8 October

Thursday 5 November

Thursday 3 December


These interactive sessions give you the opportunity to:

✔ Ask questions about your coursework

✔ Receive tutor feedback

✔ Prepare for your assessments

✔ Build confidence in your teaching skills


🏫 Route 2 – Blended Learning (VTCT Skills)

Awarding Organisation: VTCT Skills

Perfect for learners who would like the flexibility of online study with a face-to-face practical assessment at our Bideford training centre.


How you'll study

✔ Self-paced online learning through our learning portal

✔ Monthly live online tutor support sessions

✔ Personal tutor guidance and feedback

✔ Face-to-face microteach assessment in Bideford

✔ Live Tutor Support Sessions


Time: 10:30 am – 11:30 am

2026 Dates:

Thursday 10 September

Thursday 8 October

Thursday 5 November


These sessions are identical to our online route and provide ongoing tutor support throughout your qualification.


Face-to-face Microteach Assessment

When you're ready to complete your practical assessment, your assessor will arrange a mutually convenient date for you to attend our training centre in Bideford, North Devon.


During your visit, you'll complete your microteach and receive personalised tutor feedback in a supportive learning environment.


Your induction

Once you've enrolled, your tutor will contact you to arrange your individual induction via live video call.


We'll arrange this at a convenient time for you, with appointments available most weeks.


During your induction, we'll:

✔ Welcome you to Holistic Therapies Training Academy

✔ Explain how your qualification is delivered

✔ Help you access the online learning portal

✔ Create your personalised study plan

✔ Discuss assessment requirements

✔ Answer any questions before you begin


📍 Important Information

Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Education and Training is available to learners living in England and Northern Ireland.

VTCT Skills is delivered via our blended learning pathway and includes a face-to-face microteach assessment at our Bideford training centre.

If you're unsure which route is most suitable for you, please get in touch before enrolling. We'll be happy to help you choose the best option for your location, learning preferences and career goals.


Check out our
The Educator to Academy Roadmap
- Salon to Educator Programme by Karen Ashton

Create & launch your own accredited beauty, holistic or massage training academy in just 12 weeks, with full support, and a proven system.

Salon to Educator Roadmap  

Course information

Pre-requisite / Entry level:
None

Age Restriction:
VTCT - 18 years
Focus Awards -
19 years

Geographical Coverage:
Focus Awards - This qualification is available in England and Northern Ireland
Course format:
4 online training sessions via video call
You can study at your own pace, making it ideal for busy professionals 
(You must carry out and document evidence of a minimum of 1 hour of teaching)
Attendance - Focus Awards (Online):
4 x  sessions via video call

Attendance - VTCT (Blended learning):
3 x  sessions via video call
+
1 x in-person session (Bideford) for micro-teach
Exam board:
VTCT - Vocational training & charitable trust (for blended learning)
OR,
Focus Awards (for online learning)
(Ofqual / government regulated - www.vtct.org.uk)

Career potential:
Further education teacher
- Once qualified, you can pursue teaching roles in further education colleges, schools, private training centres, or become self-employed instructors / tutors. Opportunities include delivering workshops, CPD-accredited courses, and formal qualifications within the beauty, massage, and fitness sectors.
Additional costs:
You will need to provide your own teaching resources 
Qualification gained:
VTCT Level 3 Award in Education and Training (VRQ)
VTCT Code: ET3A1
Qualification Number: 601/2758/2
This qualification is regulated under the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF)
OR, 
Focus Awards Level 3 Award in Education and Training 
Qualification Number: 601/2758/2
This qualification is regulated under the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF)
Course content:
Unit UET1: Understanding roles, responsibilities, and relationships in education and training
Unit UET2: Understanding and using inclusive teaching and learning approaches
Unit UET5: Understanding assessment in education and training
Guided learning hours (GLH):
48
(GLH incl’s. practical, coursework/homework, documented teaching, microteach, research/reading)

Insurance

Please check your insurance companies requirements before enrolling on this course? (It is the students responsibility to check coverage with their insurers BEFORE enrolling on this course)
We recommend you hold student insurance while studying this course to cover you while practicing &/or when carrying out case studies (where applicable).
  • If you already have therapist insurance - You should be able to add this therapy onto your current insurance
    If you do not have therapist insurance - You can take out student insurance while practicing, and top this up to therapist insurance when qualified. You can take out student insurance for around £25 which will cover you for up to 12 months. For more information and aa list of recommended insurers - CLICK HERE

Course Lessons

#holistictherapiestrainingacademy

Karen Ashton

Your instructor
Karen Ashton, founder of Holistic Therapies Training Academy and also known as 'The Aromatherapy Geek,' combines her business acumen and passion for holistic wellness to create a thriving training academy. With a background in business ownership, office management, and accounting, Karen meticulously crafts courses that meet industry standards for online, accredited, and VTCT programs. Originally established in Swindon, Wiltshire, the academy flourished after Karen moved to Bideford, Devon, in 2011 for a better work-life balance. Today, she mentors aspiring therapists, helping them achieve professional success while balancing their personal lives. Karen is also an author, vlogger, and course writer, currently working on her second publication, and continues to inspire others.
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