If you’ve spent years building your skills in a trade, profession, or industry, you know how valuable your experience is. But have you ever considered using that experience to inspire others?
Teaching in Further Education (FE) isn’t just for lifelong educators, it’s a rewarding career path for people like you, who already have real-world expertise to share. At MidKent College, our Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills) Level 5 is designed to help adults turn their professional experience into a recognised teaching qualification, even if you’ve never taught in a classroom before.
Why choose a career in Further Education?
Teaching in FE is different from teaching in schools. You’ll work with adults and young people who want to gain the skills and qualifications they need for work or further study. Whether you’ve worked in construction, health and social care, digital, business, or the creative industries, your experience is highly valued.
Here’s why many people choose this career:
Make a real impact: Help learners develop the skills they need to succeed in their chosen field.
Career progression: Gain a Level 5 qualification that can lead to roles in teaching, training, or leadership, and provide a pathway to QTLS (Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills).
Flexible work: Many FE roles offer part-time or blended schedules, ideal for those balancing family or work commitments.
Job security: The demand for skilled FE teachers is strong across multiple sectors.
Personal satisfaction: Sharing your knowledge and seeing students succeed is incredibly rewarding.
Who is this course for?
You don’t need previous teaching experience to apply. The course is ideal for:
- Industry professionals looking to transition into education
- Trainers, assessors, and workplace instructors seeking formal qualifications
- Career changers who want to use their skills in a more rewarding, people-focused role
If you’ve ever mentored a colleague or trained apprentices at work, you already have the foundation to succeed.
What will you learn?
The Diploma in Teaching (FE and Skills) equips you with everything you need to become a confident, qualified FE teacher. The course covers eight Level 5 units:
- Teaching your subject
- Understanding learners and learning
- Professional practice and behaviour management
- Planning and delivering effective lessons
- Assessment and feedback
- Effective digital and online pedagogies
- Coaching and mentoring
- Reflective practice and action research
You’ll also gain real teaching practice through workplace or classroom placements, giving you hands-on experience while you study.
Entry Requirements
To take this course, you’ll need:
- Qualifications demonstrating knowledge of the subject you want to teach
- Level 2 English and maths (or equivalent)
- Access to a placement or teaching environment to complete practical hours
The course is designed to fit around your life, with lunchtime and evening sessions available so you can study while continuing to work. Many of our students started exactly where you are now - skilled professionals ready for a change. Hear more from current DiT student Georgie Devaney about her time on the course.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to explore how your skills and experience can translate into a rewarding teaching career, our free webinar is the perfect place to start. You’ll learn about the Diploma in Teaching, study options, and career pathways, and have the chance to ask questions live. Lunchtime and evening sessions are available to suit your schedule.
