Teaching, without a doubt is a noble and rewarding profession that can have a significant impact on the lives of people. However, since there are a number of different routes to becoming a teacher, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. One option that is gaining popularity in the UK is the Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status. QTLS provides a route into teaching for those who do not have a traditional teaching qualification but have a substantial experience in their subject area. On the other hand, Qualified Teaching Status (QTS) an equally important status, is a legal requirement for teaching in primary sectors in majority of the schools across UK. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that you plan out your aims and journey carefully in order to board the right ship.
Key Takeaways
- QTLS is a flexible, cost-effective route for FE teachers, while QTS is mandatory for primary school teaching.
- QTLS requires Level 5 DiT, Level 2 Maths and English, SET membership, and a minimum of 10 teaching hours per week across 6 months.
- Follow SET guidelines and complete Professional Formation to gain QTLS status.
The first step should be exploring all your options. Here is a blog that can help you know the Common Routes to Achieving a QTLS & Qualified Teacher Status in UK.
Opting the Best Route to QTLS – Level 5 Teaching Qualification
The most popular route to Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills status is the Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training, formerly known as DTLLS. If you want to teach at Higher Education (HE) or Further Education (FE) institutions, this Level 5 DiT (FE and Skills) would be the best way to do it. It’s also the fastest and least expensive method of obtaining the QTLS. It is quick since the manner of learning is completely online, and no internship or apprenticeship is necessary. It is completely flexible and can be completed at your own pace, with one-on-one tutor help.
To make the journey much simpler and smoother for our novice learners, we have designed the following bundles, packed with everything you will need:
Am I Eligible?
Here is the checklist of some important points to determine if you are eligible to apply for QTLS status:
- Be a current member of the Society for Education and Training (SET)
- You must have a Level 5, Further Education and Skills qualification
- You must hold a Level 2 Maths (minimum) and English qualification; however, you will need a Level 3 if you teach discrete Maths or English,
- You must teach or train (group of Post 16 learners) in a Further Education and Training setting, via Professional Formation programme, for a minimum of ten hours per week,
- You must also hold a Level 3 and above qualification in all subjects that you teach for more than 5 hours per week,
- You are also required to hold all the relevant certificates before you start your application,
Visit SET for latest updates regarding QTLS Application Process.
How to Apply For QTLS Status?
A revised application procedure is being implemented for the upcoming QTLS enrolment. Visit SET for latest updates regarding QTLS Application Process.
Further Reading: Different Routes to be a Qualified Teacher in the UK
