Professional Certificate (ProfCE) in Post Compulsory Education and Training (PcET)

L5 Level 5
Part Time
14 September 2026 — 15 May 2028
Barry Campus
This course is available at other locations or at different start dates/levels.

About this course

The Professional Certificate in Post Compulsory Education and Training (PCET) qualifies you to teach in the further, adult and vocational education sector.  It is a full, nationally-recognised teaching qualification designed for those aiming to teach a vocational subject in areas such as Hair and Beauty, Construction and Motor Vehicle Maintenance.


You will need a level 3 vocational qualification and relevant industry/sector experience to join the course. Once with us, you will develop skills, confidence and understanding of learning, teaching and assessment in your subject. Candidates must secure a teaching placement before they can start the programme. 

What you will study

This course prepares applicants for teaching within the Post Compulsory sector and further study. It consists of consists of six 20 credit modules delivered in a friendly and supportive environment and assessed via written and practical assignments. 

Year 1 

Planning for Learning - This module introduces teaching and learning theory and is assessed via a 30-minute peer teach. 
Assessing for Learning - This module supports applicants to understand and meet learner needs and is assessed on the creative use and review of technology as an assessment tool.  
Developing Professional Practice - This module runs throughout the year and includes:  
Planning and managing 50 hours of taught sessions 
Observing other professionals (20 hours) 
Regular reflection, evaluation of practice and action planning for professional development 
Three assessed teaching sessions 
Presentation of a reflection upon a critical incident 

Year 2

Practice-based Research -This module provides an opportunity to engage in action research with a focus on an area of professional development. The module is assessed via a written research proposal and a presentation and report of research outcomes.    
Literacies for Learning -This module explores ideas about all kinds of literacy (digital, visual, graphic, written etc.) in everyday life and in teaching and learning. The module is assessed via a fun and interactive exhibition. 
Extending Professional Practice -This module builds upon the professional learning in Developing Professional Practice, looking beyond the classroom towards the post-compulsory education landscape. 
This module runs throughout the year and includes:  
Planning and managing 50 hours of taught sessions 
Observing other professionals (20 hours) 
Regular reflection, evaluation of practice and action planning for professional development 
Three assessed teaching sessions 
A vlog analysing a setting police 

Teaching Practice

Teaching practice in the full teaching role is at the heart of the qualification (50 hours per year)providing the foundation for learning in every module throughout the course. Regular observations of other practitioners develops understanding of effective teaching and learning and assessment strategies and provides an opportunity to explore the placement institution more broadly.

For information on fees and financial support for Part-Time Higher Education courses click here.

Assessment is 100% coursework, including practical and interactive activities, as well as written work.

Course times

Barry - Tuesday 2-8pm

Cardiff - Thursday 2-8pm

Course fees

Tuition Fees - Year 1: £2,835.00

Tuition Fees - Year 2: £2,835.00

Entry requirements

A level 3 qualification in the subject that you are going to teach. For vocational subjects it’s also important to have at least 4 years industrial experience. It is essential that students secure a teaching placement before they start the course. This must be a minimum of 50 hours of teaching per year. In addition applicants need 20 hours of observation of an experienced tutor per year. If English is not your first language you should be able to demonstrate a level of at least IELTS 6.5 or equivalent (minimum score of 5.5 in each band). You will also require an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check on the Child Workforce and Child Barring List and subscription to the DBS Update Service.

Important points

  • The College welcomes contact with parents/guardians of students who are under 18.
  • Additional support is available for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.
  • Cardiff and Vale College is committed to inclusion and values diversity. We are determined to promote equality of opportunity and to treat everyone fairly and with respect.
  • Cardiff and Vale College reserves the right to make changes to this course without prior notice.
  • Course fees are subject to change. Your fee will be confirmed prior to enrolment.
  • All courses are accurate at the time of upload or print.
  • Courses can only run if there are sufficient numbers.
  • Please note, if you choose three or more course choices, then you may be referred for a careers appointment first. This does not apply to A Level or GCSE choices.
Key information

Start date

14 September 2026

End date

15 May 2028

Time of day

Day Time

Part Time

5.5 hours per week

Location

Barry Campus
Maps & directions

Course code

PGCR5P05
L5

Qualification

PgCE / ProfCE in Post compulsory Education and Training

Career prospects & further study

The course provides the required qualification for a career within the Post Compulsory Education and Training sector including Further Education (FE), Training Providers, Adult and Community Learning and Work Based Learning.

Locations

Barry Campus
Barry Campus

Cardiff and Vale College,

Barry Campus,

Vale of Glamorgan,

CF62 8YJ