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 will be available in the autumn, you can see further details here.
Scroll down this page for further details regarding QTLS status and useful weblinks.
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.
The ETF support the professional development of teachers and trainers, leaders and governors, and employers.
The Society for Education and Training (SET) is part of the ETF.
They 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.
Scroll down this page to the video section to see one regarding the Professional Standards.
If you are a trainee working towards a level 3-5 teaching qualification/CertEd/PGCE you can join for 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 a qualification?
It's not a qualification, it's a 'status' It's achieved by application to the Society for Education and Training (SET) through a professional formation process. You must have gained a recognised level 5 (or above) teaching qualification, hold at least level 2 (or equivalent) English and maths qualifications, and be able to demonstrate your current teaching skills. You must remain a member of the SET to keep your QTLS 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. 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?
You can find out more and apply by clicking here. It's up to you how long you take. There are windows of dates for making an application. You can complete the online workbook at your own pace.
5 - Why should I achieve QTLS status if it's not a legal requirement as a teacher in the FE and skills sector?
QTLS status is a demonstration of your commitment, skills and knowledge to employers. It shows you are a professional teacher. Also, as a member of SET you will be able to access professional development opportunities and 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 but please check with them 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.
8 - Can I use the letters QTLS 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 if you have achieved the status.
If your question is not listed above, please click here for many more FAQs on SETs website.