Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a key credential for teaching in state-maintained schools in the UK. It signifies a teacher’s ability to deliver quality education and meet professional standards, enhancing credibility and career prospects for aspiring educators.
What does being qualified to teach mean? Being qualified to teach means having the necessary education, skills, certification, and training to deliver effective and professional instruction. If you're starting your teaching journey and want to advance your career, explore this complete guide to QTS!
What Is the QTS Certification?
QTS is a professional qualification that confirms a teacher’s ability to meet the required educational standards for teaching in state-maintained schools in England and Wales.
Issued by the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA), this certification verifies that a teacher possesses the necessary skills, knowledge, and training to inspire and educate students effectively.
QTS is also recognized internationally while it is primarily a requirement for teaching in the UK, adding significant value to a teacher’s professional profile.
How to Achieve Qualified Teacher Status Certification
There are various pathways to obtain QTS, each catering to different qualifications and career goals. Find the main routes to follow in the brief below.
1. Submit An Application Through the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA)
The TRA offers a straightforward pathway for teachers with suitable qualifications and experience. Candidates submit evidence of their teaching proficiency and meet the outlined standards to secure QTS.
2. Pursue the Assessment-Only QTS Pathway
The assessment-only route is perfect for experienced teachers who already meet the necessary standards but do not hold formal certification. It involves a comprehensive evaluation process without any additional training.
3. Choose the Salaried School Direct Program
This route allows candidates to earn while they learn. Aspiring teachers work as unqualified teachers in a school, gaining hands-on experience while receiving training to achieve qualified teacher status.
4. Enroll in the School Direct program with A Tuition Fee Option
This route combines academic study with practical experience for those who prefer a university-led approach. Participants pay tuition fees and train on-site at partner schools.
5. Undertake Training Via the School-Centered Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) program
SCITT programs offer a school-based approach where trainees gain QTS by working directly within schools. This route often provides a balance between practical and theoretical learning.
6. Complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
The PGCE route is a popular choice for those who wish to combine QTS certification with an academic qualification. It involves university-led training complemented by teaching placements in schools.
7. Explore the Teach First Program
Teach First is a leadership development program designed to train outstanding teachers in challenging schools. Participants earn qualified teacher status while making a significant impact on underprivileged communities.
8. Pass the Required Professional Skills Tests
Achieving QTS involves demonstrating proficiency in professional skills tests, which assess a candidate’s literacy, numeracy, and teaching aptitude. These tests ensure candidates are prepared for the challenges of the teaching profession.
9. Consider the Researchers in Schools (RIS) Pathway
Designed for individuals with a doctoral degree, the RIS route encourages researchers to bring their expertise to schools. Through this route, participants gain QTS while contributing to academic excellence and innovation.
Why Is a QTS Certificate Important?
The QTS certificate is essential for teachers aiming to work in state-maintained schools in the UK. It ensures that educators meet rigorous professional standards, fostering trust among students, parents, and institutions. Besides, teachers can access better career opportunities, higher salaries, and increased job security with QTS.
Additionally, the certification enhances teaching quality, benefiting students through effective learning experiences. Beyond the UK, qualified teacher status holds international recognition, making it a valuable credential for global teaching opportunities.
Secure Your Qualified Teacher Status and Shine Brighter in Your Teaching Journey!
QTS is vital for a successful teaching career, verifying your qualifications and readiness to inspire. With various pathways available, choose one that fits your goals. QTS enhances career prospects and elevates teaching standards but can expire if not maintained. Kickstart your QTS journey now and unlock boundless potential!
