QTLS - Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills
ATS - Advanced Teacher Status
ETF - Education and Training Foundation
SET - Society for Eduction and Training
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Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) is the badge of professionalism for teachers and trainers in the UK.
It is a voluntary process which demonstrates your commitment to being a professional teacher in England. It is a 'status', not a qualification.
A book to support the process is now available, you can see further details here.
Scroll down this page for further details regarding QTLS status.
QTLS is gained by completing a process known as 'professional formation' and by being a member of the professional association the Society for Education and Training (SET), which is part of the Education and Training Foundation (ETF).
You can read a case study about Jeminiyi Ogunkoya (pictured) gaining QTLS by clicking here.
QTLS status gives legal parity with school teachers' QTS status in England, enabling you to teach in a school or an academy should you wish, without going through the induction year. Guidance for schools can be seen here.
ATS recognises experienced professionals who can demonstrate:
The ETF support the professional development of teachers and trainers, leaders and governors, and employers to
help them deliver excellent further and vocational education and training.
The Society for Education and Training (SET) is part of the ETF. You you can join to be a member of the SET professional association.
SET have produced Professional Standards for teachers and trainers in England.
There are 20 standards, which are numbered for ease of reference, and which relate to three areas:
You can use an online self-assessment tool to rate yourself against the Professional Standards.
An interactive map is also available to help you apply the Professional Standards within your job role.
If you are a trainee teacher working towards a level 3-5 teaching qualification or CertEd/PGCE,
you can join SET free (for a limited period) just click here for details.
1 - Is QTLS the same as QTS?
QTLS status is recognised in law as having parity with QTS status for school teachers. Click here for further information from the GOV.UK website. Click here for guidance for employers and headteachers from SET. This information might help you avoid the induction year if your school is unaware of it.
2 - Is QTLS/ATS a qualification?
It's not a qualification, it's a 'status' which is achieved by application to the Society for Education and Training (SET). You must remain a member of the SET to keep your status live.
3 - Can I teach in a school if I have QTLS?
QTLS status is accepted in schools, however, each school makes their own decision as to what their staff should hold. See question one (above) as it is recognised in law and schools should accept it.
4 - How do I apply and how long does it take to achieve QTLS/ATS?
You can find out more and apply by clicking here for QTLS and clicking here for ATS. QTLS takes about 4-6 months and ATS up to 11 months. There are windows of dates for making an application. You can complete the online workbook/e-portfolio at your own pace.
5 - Why should I achieve QTLS/ATS status if it's not a legal requirement as a teacher in the FE and training sector?
QTLS and/or ATS is a demonstration of your commitment, skills and knowledge to employers. It shows you are a professional teacher or trainer. Also, as a member of SET you will be able to access professional development opportunities, certain benefits, and be able to communicate with other members.
6 - How much does it cost to gain QTLS status?
You will need to become a member of SET first and then you can apply. The cost of QTLS is currently £485 and ATS is £600, but please check with SET in case it's increased. The fee can be paid in installments.
7 - Where can I get help to complete the application and workbook?
You can get help via SET here. There is a text book to support QTLS which can be purchased here. You can also join my Facebook group where I give free support and advice: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FEandSkills/
8 - Can I use the letters QTLS/ATS after my name?
As a member of SET, you can use various letters after your name, depending upon your membership grade, plus the letters QTLS/ATS if you have achieved the status.
If your question is not listed above, please click here for QTLS FAQs and click here for ATS FAQs on SETs website.