Can I be a Teacher With a Level 5 Diploma in Teaching?

With the recent changes to the qualifications required to become a teacher in the further education and skills sector, it can be easy to get confused about what courses you need to complete to get your career started. If you’re wondering whether the new Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (DIT) would allow you to become a teacher, then the good news is yes, it’s the course you’ve been looking for!

In this article, we’re going to explore the DIT in more detail so you can understand how it can take your teaching career to the next level.

What is the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching?

The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (DIT) is the perfect springboard for becoming a teacher in a range of post-16 education sectors, such as colleges, adult education, offender education, work-based learning and independent training organisations.

As of September 2024, it has replaced the old Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET). There’s more to it than just a change in the name, however, because the unit structure has also been significantly overhauled, including a greater focus on digital and online teaching to reflect the increase in remote learning. 

You can read more about the difference between the Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training and the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching in our previous article.

Why should I take the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching?

The DIT is the most advanced of the three teaching and training qualifications. If you’re looking to develop a career in a further education environment, it will provide the skills, knowledge and practical experience that you’ll need to thrive in your new role. 

The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching is also an Ofqual-regulated course and a recognised qualification across the UK. Your CV will look considerably more impressive to potential employers and your prospects of getting the teaching position you want will be significantly enhanced.

What will the Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training allow me to do?

As with the DET, the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching will allow you to apply for Qualified Teacher Learning Status (QTLS). This is equivalent to QTS and once you’ve achieved that, you’ll be eligible to apply for teaching positions.

What does the course contain?

Key units covered in the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching include:

• Learners and Learning
• Teachers and Teaching
• Teaching My Subject
• Professional Practice
• Digital and Online Pedagogies
• Action Research
• Coaching and Mentoring
• Managing Behaviour

How long does the course take to complete?

You have 12 months from enrolment to complete the course. It will involve approximately 1200 hours of study time made up of 395 guided learning hours and 805 hours of self-directed learning. As it is an online course, you can manage your own hours to fit around your existing commitments. You’ll also need to complete at least 250 hours in a teaching placement with at least 150 hours of hands-on teaching practice. 

What are the requirements for enrolment?

To enrol on the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching course, you must

• Be aged 19 or older
• Be qualified and/or experienced in your subject specialism
• Demonstrate an ability to study at Level 5
• Achieve a minimum of Level 2 in both maths and English before starting the course
• Have a suitable level of digital competency to meet the qualification requirements

When you take the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching course with CTC Training, you get the benefit of our 24/7 online portal which lets you learn at your own pace. The portal includes all your course content and you can also use it to upload completed assignments for assessment. CTC Training also allocates you with a personal tutor, who will provide expert advice and guidance throughout your studies.

Enrol today or contact the CTC Training team for more information.