Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a teaching qualification required to teach in state-maintained schools in England. It is a professional qualification that demonstrates a teacher’s ability to meet the Teachers’ Standards, which outline the key knowledge, skills and behaviours expected of teachers.
There are two main routes available for individuals to achieve QTS: the Assessment Only (AO) QTS route and the International Qualified Teacher Status (IQTS) route. Both routes involve working with a teaching training provider, providing alternative pathways to obtain the necessary teaching qualification, catering to those with prior experience or qualifications from other education systems.
The specific requirements for each route can vary, so prospective teachers should research the options thoroughly. In this blog, we will explore the key differences between these two routes and provide you with information to decide which route is best for you if you want to pursue a career in teaching.
Overview of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a professional teaching qualification in England that serves as a benchmark of excellence in the teaching profession. It is a requirement for teachers who wish to work in state-maintained schools, ensuring they meet the high standards expected in the education sector.
While QTS is not legally required for all types of schools in England, it is highly preferred by many institutions, reflecting a teacher’s competence and commitment to quality education.
QTS is recognised globally, making it a valuable credential for teachers who may wish to work internationally. For teachers coming from outside the UK, there is a provision to work in England for up to four years without QTS.
However, after this period, obtaining QTS becomes necessary to continue teaching in many state-maintained schools. This requirement underscores the importance of QTS in maintaining educational standards and providing students with high-quality teaching.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for QTS, teachers must meet specific requirements, including having a degree and a teaching qualification. Teachers must also demonstrate that they meet the Teachers’ Standards, which include planning and teaching, assessing, and managing behaviour.
Experienced teachers who have been teaching for at least two years may be eligible for the Assessment Only QTS route. Training providers play a crucial role in helping prospective teachers meet these eligibility requirements by offering guidance and support throughout the process.
What is the Application Process for Assessment only QTS and iQTS?
The application process for QTS involves submitting an application to a teaching training provider. Teachers must provide evidence of their qualifications and experience, as well as a personal statement outlining their teaching philosophy. The application process may also involve an interview with the teaching training provider.
The application process for IQTS is similar. Teachers must submit an application providing evidence of their qualifications and experience, along with a personal statement. The application may also require an interview.
Assessment Only Route QTS
The Assessment Only QTS route is designed for experienced teachers who have been teaching for at least two years. This route involves an assessment period of up to 12 weeks, during which teachers must demonstrate that they meet the Teachers’ Standards.
The assessment period may involve lesson observations, providing a portfolio of evidence, and written assessments. Training providers play a key role in the assessment process for the Assessment Only QTS route.
International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS)
iQTS is a teaching qualification that is recognised worldwide. It is designed for teachers who want to teach in a British international school or in the UK. The IQTS training programme involves a combination of online and face-to-face training, as well as an assessment period.
How to Achieve Qualified Teacher Status
There are several pathways to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in England, catering to different levels of experience. The Assessment Only Route is for experienced teachers with 2+ years’ teaching. It allows them to demonstrate they already meet QTS standards without further training.
Another route is teacher training programs like PGCE or School Direct, providing structured training and mentorship to meet the Teachers’ Standards. Achieving QTS is crucial for teaching in state-maintained schools in England.
Achieving QTS requires teachers to demonstrate that they meet the Teachers’ Standards. Teachers must also complete an early career teacher (ECT) induction period, which provides support and training for new teachers. QTS is a requirement for teaching in state-maintained schools in England.
Teaching in England with QTS
Achieving QTS requires teachers to demonstrate they meet the Teachers’ Standards. They must also complete an early career teacher (ECT) induction period, which provides support and training for new teachers. QTS is a requirement for teaching in state-maintained schools in England.
Teaching Outside the UK with QTS
QTS is recognised by many countries around the world. Teachers with QTS may be eligible to teach in British international schools or in other countries. However, teachers should always check with the relevant authorities to ensure that their QTS is recognised.
Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS)
QTLS is a teaching qualification that is recognised by the Society for Education and Training (SET).
QTLS is designed for teachers who want to teach in further education or skills settings.
QTLS is not a requirement for teaching in state-maintained schools in England.
Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS)
The cost of achieving QTS varies depending on the teacher training provider and the route chosen.
Teachers may be eligible for funding or bursaries to support their training.
The cost of IQTS training also varies depending on the provider and the location.
Choosing the right path to teaching requires careful consideration of the options available. Assessment Only QTS and IQTS are two routes to achieving QTS, each with its own eligibility requirements and application process. Teachers should research and compare the different options to determine which route is best for them.
For further information get in touch with us today, Neil Rintoul or Sarah Tate will be happy to discuss your options and offer you support services when choosing a master’s degree, professional development and career planning.
If you would like any more information, please do not hesitate to contact us by email at info@theteachertrainingcollege.co.uk or call us on 0330 390 0529.
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