Embarking on a teaching journey abroad? Every year (according to a 2008 study), around 15,000 daring UK teachers broaden their horizons by taking their skills to international schools—and who wouldn’t? With the allure of handsome salaries, vibrant multicultural environments, exciting career advancement opportunities, and, of course, the chance for an unforgettable adventure, the temptation is undeniable.
Whether you’re already part of this adventurous cohort or contemplating joining, acquiring certain credentials can significantly amplify your career prospects. For British educators, achieving Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) stands out as an essential milestone, ensuring you’re well-prepared and eligible to teach in most international and British schools around the globe. Here’s a condensed guide outlining what QTS is, why it’s vital, and how it can enrich your teaching career.
What is Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)?
QTS is more than just a certification—it’s your passport to teaching in the majority of schools across England and Wales. Endorsed by the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA), a segment under England’s Department for Education, QTS is awarded following rigorous assessment. To qualify, you need a bachelor’s degree, a solid grounding in your teaching subjects, and at least two years of teaching experience, validated by a grade 4/C in English, maths, and science GCSEs—or equivalents—for primary teaching roles. Unsure about your qualifications? A quick visit to the UK ENIC website can clarify equivalence.
Obtaining QTS typically involves an induction period of two years as a Newly Qualified Teacher. You might often find it paired with a PGCE, but it stands strong on its own merits too.
When would I need a QTS?
From state-funded to special needs schools, almost all primary and secondary schools in England and Wales require teachers to hold a QTS. This standard often extends beyond the UK, with numerous international and British schools worldwide favoring or insisting on this qualification. Remember, each country has its own educational mandates, so always research thoroughly to ensure your teaching credentials meet local requirements.
Why does QTS matter?
For those teaching or aspiring to teach abroad, QTS offers substantial benefits. Typically, teachers with QJTS enjoy higher salaries than those without. Beyond financial incentives, QTS opens doors to extensive career growth and leadership opportunities within numerous global educational systems. Should you ever wish to return to teaching in England and Wales, QTS ensures you’re ready and eligible.
Essentially, QTS upholds stringent education quality standards, fostering consistent teaching competencies and outcomes both in the UK and internationally. “Obtaining my QTS not only boosted my salary but also gave me a profound sense of security and confidence in my teaching abilities,” shares Emma, an experienced international school teacher.
How do I get QTS certified?
Gaining your QTS can be a straightforward process, especially for those already professionally certified in countries like Australia, Canada, or the US, allowing direct application through the TRA without the need for further assessment.
For others, options include enrolling in a teacher training program or taking a QTS assessment to demonstrate your capabilities. For aspiring teachers, various school- or university-led programs in England or Wales streamline the process, typically over a year, also catering to visa requirements.
Alternatively, for those seasoned in the educational field, bypass traditional routes and opt for an assessment-only approach through a UK-approved provider. With Teaching Nomad, you can take advantage of a fully remote, assessment-only QTS program, designed to fit your current teaching role, without necessitating additional exams or coursework.
Eager to advance your teaching career with QTS? Explore our assessment-only QTS program and kickstart your application today. Dive into this enriching journey with Teaching Nomad by your side—because every great teaching adventure begins with the right qualifications.
