Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a professional qualification awarded by the National College of Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) when a person can prove that they meet all of the Teachers’ Standards and criteria. QTS is required in England to teach in a state school that is under local authority control and in special schools. It is most commonly gained alongside or as part of a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) qualification, but it can also be awarded on its own.Internationally recognised teacher training programmes
QTS is recognised in some countries outside of England and Wales, but
if you are thinking of teaching abroad once qualified then it is always
worth checking with the department for education of a particular
country that you intend to teach in.
What are the requirements?
In order gain QTS, you will need to have an undergraduate degree and
GCSEs of level 4/grade C or above in Maths and English (you will also
need grade C in Science if you plan to teach at a Primary level). You
will need to pass the Professional Skills Tests in Numeracy and Literacy
as well. Prepare for your skills tests using our free skills clinics.
How can I gain QTS?
QTS can be achieved through both school-led and university-led
initial teacher training, some of which are explained in this handy
infographic.
One route, which is a great way for unqualified
teachers to become qualified without leaving the school they know and
love, is Tes Institute's Straight to Teaching programme. The course
helps you with QTS preparation by creating a personalised, experience
based programme, unique to you and your school. Once you meet all of the
Teachers’ Standards and have a sufficient amount of teaching
experience, you will then arrive at Tes Institute’s Assessment Only
route to gain QTS.
If you already have substantial teaching experience and feel that you meet the Teachers’ Standards you can follow the Assessment Only route to gain the qualification, which takes just 12 weeks.A PGCE is an academic qualification awarded by a Higher Education Institution. It is typically awarded alongside QTS in the UK as the result of teacher training.
A PGCE can be gained through a variety of teacher training routes from University-led teacher training courses and school centred routes like School Direct and SCITTs that partner with a University. This course is available at both primary and secondary levels.
All applications for PGCE programmes are handled by UCAS Teacher Training, although it is usually possible to speak directly to PGCE initial teacher training providers regarding the number of places available and the best ways to apply.
What are the requirements?
There are specific entry requirements for gaining a PGCE that will vary between institutions. Some will require a subject specific degree, whilst other teaching course providers will allow non-specific degrees, particularly for shortage subjects if you complete a Subject Knowledge Enhancement course as a conditional of an offer.
