What is a QTS in Education?

If you are interested in teaching in England, you may have already come across the term QTS. But what does it mean in education, and why is it such an important qualification for teachers?

QTS stands for Qualified Teacher Status. It is the professional accreditation that allows you to teach in most state-maintained and special schools in England. Without one, your career options within teaching can be limited. Achieving this status shows that you meet the required teaching standards and are recognised as a fully qualified teacher.

Please note: Holding Qualified Teaching Status does not automatically give you the right to work in the UK. If you are not a British or Irish national, you will still need to obtain the appropriate work visa or have immigration status that permits employment.

Why Is It Important in Education?

A Qualified Teacher Status is more than just a certificate; it is a gateway into the teaching profession. Schools across England prefer or require teachers with QTS, as it demonstrates competence in classroom management, subject knowledge, and professional conduct.

Holding one can also open up access to higher-paying teaching vacancies and career progression opportunities such as head of department or leadership roles. In short, it is your ticket to long-term success in the education sector.

How to Gain QTS and Begin Your Teaching Career

There are several routes to gaining a Qualified Teacher Status depending on your background and experience:

• Initial Teacher Training (ITT): Programmes such as PGCEs allow graduates to train as teachers while working towards QTS.

• School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT): A hands-on approach where trainees learn on the job in a school setting.

• Assessment Only Route: Designed for experienced teachers, including those from overseas, who can demonstrate they already meet QTS standards.

QTS vs. Other Teaching Qualifications: What’s the Difference?

It is important to note that the Qualified Teacher Status is specific to England. Other qualifications exist, such as the Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS), which applies to further education, or the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), which is an academic qualification that may or may not include QTS.

For example:

• A PGCE with QTS qualifies you to apply for mainstream teaching roles in schools.

• A PGCE without QTS may be valuable abroad but won’t allow you to work in state schools in England.

Understanding the difference ensures you choose the right training pathway for your teaching career.

Unlocking More Career Opportunities

Having QTS greatly increases your employability. Schools often advertise teaching vacancies specifically requiring candidates that hold this qualification, as it assures them you have met national teaching standards.

Prospero Teaching regularly supports candidates in securing roles that match their skills, whether they hold QTS already or are working towards it. You can apply for a wide variety of positions, from primary and secondary teaching to subject-specific roles and leadership positions.

If you are exploring teaching vacancies and want to take the next step in your education career, obtaining this qualification is a vital step to unlock more opportunities.