The Certificate in Further Education and Skills (CertEd) course is a recognised qualification to work in post-16 education and training and is designed to enable you to teach at college / further education level. You’ll learn the most effective teaching techniques by spending time on teaching placements in real education settings and exploring teaching theory in lectures and classes. You’ll also develop subject specific knowledge by working closely with course lecturers and work-based subject mentors.
Course modules:
Year 1 – Planning, Assessing & Evaluating and Learning Programmes; Theories & Principles for Planning & Enabling Learning in a Specialist Subject Area. You will understand your own role and responsibilities in relation to the teaching and learning process and learn how to plan and prepare lessons using the appropriate teaching and learning strategies. You will also be able to apply theories and principles of learning to enable inclusive learning.
Year 2 – Professional Practice, Curriculum Design in a Specialist Subject Area. You will investigate education policy in an area relevant to your own work. You will also do a small piece of research to develop your understanding of your learners and of your own practice. You will reflect on your own development needs and create a teaching file of evidence linking theory to practice.
The course will be taught by a mixture of lectures, seminars, group work, individual tutorials and guided self study. It is assessed by written work, oral presentation, observation of teaching and a teaching practice file. You will develop the skills required to be a reflective teacher in post-16 education and training. You will receive either a Certificate (Level 5) or a Professional Graduate Certificate (Level 6) in Further Education and Training from the University of Portsmouth. The Professional Graduate Certificate is similar to the former Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). The Certificate in Education from the University of Portsmouth has been designed to meet the national requirements of the new Diploma in Education and Training.
Awarding Body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Portsmouth.
Course Fees
The course fees are set by the University of Portsmouth and may be subject to change – please see their website for the latest fees and details. Instalment plans and loans may be available to assist with this.
Policies
For our HE Fees, Admissions and Student Protection Policies, please visit our Policies page.
You will need to have at least 50 hours of teaching per year of the course. You will also need GCSE in English and maths at grade 4/C or above, or equivalent (recognised Level 2 qualification).
You must also have a Level 3 qualification and several years’ professional experience in a relevant subject area, plus a desire to help students begin their careers through further education. A clear and current DBS certificate is also required.
You will need to apply for the course through the University of Portsmouth website – the below APPLY button link will take you directly there. Whilst you are based in Eastleigh College, you would also be a University of Portsmouth student and will therefore be able to access their facilities and support.
All shortlisted applicants are subject to interview at Eastleigh College.
Upon successful completion of this Level 4 CertEd, you may apply for membership to the Society for Education and Training (SET) and gain QTLS. You will also have the option to top-up to a BA (Hons) Education and Training degree at university.
Course ID
H4401-2526-E-P1
Start Date
17/09/2025
End Date
16/06/2027
Location
Eastleigh College
College is not just about your course – it’s an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and explore your interests! You can socialise with friends in the café and comfy seating areas, join a club or sports team or attend exciting events around the college. Many of our enrichment opportunities are also great on your CV or UCAS application to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm outside of your studies.
Your time at college can also be affected by life or health difficulties, and it’s okay to need support. Our specialist teams are here every day to listen and give advice, whether it’s about career planning, financial support, mental health, or something else. And if you have a long-term support need or medical condition, we’ll work with you on personalised learning support to help you achieve your full potential.