AET vs CET vs Assessor vs IQA: Which Qualification Is Right for You in 2025?
If you’re considering a career in education, training, or assessment, you’ve probably seen several qualifications mentioned – AET, CET, Assessor, and IQA. Each has a different purpose and career pathway, and choosing the right one can feel confusing.
At Karen Blake Coaching, we deliver qualifications that are fully accredited by iCQ Awarding Body, recognised across the UK and internationally.
To explore related roles and career options, you can also visit the National Careers Service job profiles for teaching and training.
Understanding the Four Key Education and Training Qualifications
These qualifications are part of the wider education and skills sector framework and are recognised across the UK:
- AET (Level 3 Award in Education and Training) – the foundation for anyone new to teaching or training.
- CET (Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training) – for those already teaching or training and ready to take the next step.
- Assessor Qualification (Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement) – for those assessing learners in a workplace or training environment.
- IQA Qualification (Level 4 Award or Certificate in Internal Quality Assurance) – for those monitoring the quality of assessment and supporting assessors.
The AET – For Aspiring Trainers and New Tutors
The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) is perfect if you’re:
- New to teaching or training adults,
- Delivering short courses, inductions, or workshops, or
- Looking to move into a training role within your organisation.
You’ll learn:
- How to plan, deliver, and evaluate learning sessions,
- How to use inclusive teaching methods, and
- How to assess learners fairly and effectively.
Typical roles: Trainer, Tutor, Instructor, Facilitator.
The CET – For Experienced Teachers or Trainers
The Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training (CET) builds on the AET and is ideal if you’re already delivering training and want to deepen your skills.
You’ll learn:
- Advanced planning and delivery techniques,
- How to use theory to support practice,
- How to assess learning and support progression.
You’ll need:
- At least 30 hours of teaching practice (which can include workplace training).
Typical roles: Teacher, Trainer, Tutor, Learning and Development Specialist.
The Assessor Qualification – For Workplace Assessors
The Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA) is the qualification you need if you assess learners in the workplace or in a training environment.
You’ll learn:
- How to plan and carry out assessments,
- How to make sound assessment decisions,
- How to give constructive feedback to support learner progress.
You’ll need access to learners or candidates to assess.
Typical roles: Assessor, Verifier, Skills Coach, Work-Based Learning Practitioner.
The IQA Qualification – For Internal Quality Assurers
The Level 4 Award or Certificate in Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) is for experienced assessors who want to move into quality assurance or team leadership roles.
You’ll learn:
- How to monitor the quality and consistency of assessment,
- How to support and develop assessors,
- How to ensure standards meet awarding-body requirements.
Typical roles: IQA, Lead IQA, Quality Assurance Officer, Training Manager.
Which Qualification Should You Choose?
| Your Goal | Recommended Qualification | Study Level | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start teaching adults | AET | Level 3 | Beginners/new trainers |
| Advance in teaching | CET | Level 4 | Practising trainers |
| Assess learners | Assessor (CAVA) | Level 3 | Workplace assessors |
| Quality assure assessors | IQA | Level 4 | Experienced assessors/IQAs |
Not sure which to choose? That’s where we can help. Our tutors will discuss your goals, previous experience, and learning preferences before recommending the best route.
Study with Karen Blake Coaching
All our qualifications are:
Download our free Qualification Comparison Guide to see all four routes side by side and decide which one suits your goals.
Or, if you’re ready to start, you can:
- Book a free 15-minute Career Clarity Call to explore your options, or
- Enrol online today through our KBC Education Store
Choosing the right qualification isn’t just about ticking a box, it’s about unlocking your potential, progressing your career, and building the confidence to help others learn.
Whether you’re starting your teaching journey or ready to move into assessment or quality assurance, Karen Blake Coaching provides expert support every step of the way.
