Shape the Next Generation

From early years educator to further education lecturer — accredited qualifications recognised by schools, nurseries, and colleges across the UK.

Browse Courses

Your Journey

1

Choose Your Path

Early years, teaching assistant, HLTA, or further education — we have the right course for your career stage.

2

Study Online

Flexible study that fits around your work in education or childcare.

3

Get Qualified

Earn a nationally recognised qualification from TQUK or NCFE CACHE.

4

Start or Progress

Begin a new career in education or progress to the next level in your current role.

Career FAQs

It depends on the role. Early years educators need a Level 3 qualification. Teaching assistants can start with Level 2 or 3. HLTAs need Level 4. FE lecturers need a Level 5 teaching qualification. All of these are available online through Qualvera.

Teaching assistants typically earn £18,000–£22,000. Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs) earn £22,000–£28,000. Senior TAs and HLTAs with additional responsibilities can earn more, and many use the role as a stepping stone to qualified teacher status.

Teaching assistants work under the direct supervision of a teacher. HLTAs can plan, prepare, and deliver learning activities to whole classes without a teacher present. It's a significant step up in responsibility and pay.

The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (FE & Skills) leads directly to Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status, which is equivalent to QTS and allows you to teach in further education colleges and training providers. For primary/secondary school teaching, you'd need to pursue a PGCE or other QTS route.

Yes. All our education courses are designed for working professionals. Many of our learners are already working as teaching assistants, nursery practitioners, or classroom volunteers.

Career Progression

1
Classroom Volunteer

Entry point — gain experience in a school setting

2
Teaching Assistant (Level 3)

£18,000–£22,000 — support learning in the classroom

3
HLTA (Level 4)

£22,000–£28,000 — lead whole-class teaching sessions

4
FE Lecturer (Level 5)

£25,000–£40,000 — teach in colleges and training providers

5
Senior Educator

£40,000+ — curriculum lead, head of department, or SEN coordinator

Student Stories

“I started volunteering at my children's school and fell in love with education. The Level 3 qualification gave me a real career.”

“Going from nursery assistant to qualified early years educator has been life-changing. I can now lead a room and earn more.”

Guides & Resources

How to Become a Teaching Assistant

Everything you need to know about starting a career as a TA.

Read Guide →

How to Become an Early Years Educator

Qualifications, career paths, and what to expect in early years.

Read Guide →

Funding & Payment

Flexible payment plans from £69/mo. No contracts, no hidden fees. Study at your own pace and cancel anytime.

View Pricing →

Ready to Build Your Career in Education?

From early years to further education — get qualified and start making a difference.

Enrol Now Browse Courses →