Course Overview
This courses is delivered at University Centre Somerset. For more information, please visit: www.somerset.ac.uk
The Level 5 Certificate in Education is a Teacher Training degree programme for those who do NOT hold an undergraduate/Bachelors degree to level 6.
This nationally recognised programme will enhance your employability as a teacher in the Further Education and Skills Sector (post 16 and adult education – PLEASE NOTE we do NOT currently offer teacher training for the Primary or Secondary sectors).
It leads to the award of a Level 5 Certificate in Education by the University of Plymouth. On successful completion, it provides the opportunity to independently pursue Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status which could then be used to teach in other educational sectors outside of FE and Skills.
Modules may include:
- Learners, Learning and Teaching
- Subject Specialist Teaching and Managing the Learning Environment
- Teaching and the Curriculum
- Professional Practice.
Assessment Methods
You will work closely with other students on the programme and colleagues in your placement setting, learning together and from one another, with peer support playing an important part of the programme organisation and learning. Your teaching observations are carried out by course tutors and subject specialist mentors in an atmosphere of professional evaluation and support. The course is assessed through a range of methods including; written coursework, professional portfolio development, 150 hours mandatory direct teaching practice, observed practice and a Viva (oral professional discussion). Progression Opportunities on completion of the course could lead to full-time or part-time employment in the Further Education and Skills sector. Recent graduates have gone on to work in a variety of Further and Higher Education institutions regionally and nationally, and staff training roles within the National Health Service.
Entry Requirements
Typically entrants will possess:
- A minimum of a Level 3 qualification in your specialist subject area.
- Minimum 3-years relevant professional, industrial or commercial experience.
- English and maths qualifications at Level 2 e.g. GCSE grade 4; grade C or equivalent or Functional skills Level 2 -Pass
- Securing an appropriate professional practice placement to include a minimum of 150 hours of direct teaching practice, plus a minimum 100 hours additional non-direct professional practice over the duration of the course. Support with exploring placement options is available at the interview stage.
- Identification of a suitable subject specialist mentor in place, prior to the commencement of the course.
- You will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, register with the Independent Safeguarding Authority and complete a criminal convictions self-declaration form.
Frequently Asked Questions
The application route depends on your chosen study mode. For full-time undergraduate degrees, you will need to apply via UCAS. If you are applying for a part-time course, a professional qualification, or a Degree Apprenticeship, you can usually apply directly through our website using the ‘Apply Now’ button on the course page. If you need any guidance, our Admissions team is always on hand to help.
Every programme at University Centre Somerset is designed as a ‘Degree for Real Life.’ We focus heavily on employability, meaning your studies will be directly linked to industry needs. You will benefit from work-based learning, live commercial briefs, and our strong regional employer networks. Additionally, our dedicated Careers team offers 1:1 guidance to help you refine your CV, prepare for interviews, and build your professional network.
Transitioning to higher education is a significant step, and we treat you as an independent adult while providing robust support. You will be assigned a personal academic tutor to guide your academic progress. We also offer dedicated Higher Education study skills sessions, library support, and a comprehensive Student Support team providing confidential advice on mental health, wellbeing, and financial concerns.
Most UK students studying a first degree, Foundation Degree, or HND are eligible for tuition fee and maintenance loans through Student Finance England. If you are studying a Degree Apprenticeship, your tuition fees are fully funded by your employer and the government, and you earn a salary while you learn. We also offer advice on eligible bursaries and financial hardship funds – contact our Student Support team for tailored advice.
Yes. We offer dedicated, independent student accommodation tailored for our higher education learners, primarily based at our Taunton and Cannington campuses. Our HE options provide a safe, comfortable, and mature environment that fosters a strong learning community, with easy access to our state-of-the-art campus facilities.
Absolutely. We welcome applications from mature students and those with non-traditional qualifications. We consider a wide range of experience, including vocational qualifications, Access to HE diplomas, and relevant professional experience. If you are unsure whether your current qualifications meet the entry criteria, please get in touch with our admissions team to discuss your individual pathway.
We understand that many of our HE students balance their studies with employment and family commitments. We strive to condense our full-time degree timetables into a few days a week to allow for part-time work or independent study. Our part-time routes are specifically designed to be flexible for working professionals.
We are here to help. You can submit a direct enquiry using the form our Contact page, or you can contact our Higher Education admissions team via email or phone. We also highly recommend registering for our next Open Event, where you can speak directly with the lecturers and tour our advanced facilities.
