1. Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

What is Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)? Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a professional teaching qualification that is recognized in the United Kingdom. It is awarded to individuals who have met the required standards and competencies to teach in primary or secondary schools in England. QTS is a prerequisite for teaching in most state-funded schools in England and is essential for those who wish to pursue a career as a qualified teacher.

Where to get the qualification? To obtain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), individuals typically need to follow a specific pathway, which includes completing an accredited teacher training program or course, gaining practical teaching experience, and meeting assessment criteria. There are several routes to QTS in the UK, including:

1. University-based Initial Teacher Training (ITT): This route involves completing a Bachelor of Education (BEd) or a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at a university or higher education institution. This is a common pathway for graduates who want to become teachers.

2. School-Centered Initial Teacher Training (SCITT): SCITT programs are school-led teacher training courses that offer classroom-based training and experience. They are typically run by groups of schools, often in partnership with a university.

3. School Direct: School Direct is another school-led training option, where individuals are employed by a school and receive on-the-job training while working towards QTS.

4. Assessment-Only Route: This route is for experienced teachers or individuals with relevant teaching experience who want to gain QTS. It involves an assessment of the candidate’s teaching practice.

Cost of the Qualification – The cost of obtaining QTS can vary depending on the route chosen, the institution or organization providing the training, and any financial support or bursaries that may be available. Candidates should check with the specific teacher training provider for current pricing details.

Possibility of Scholarship – Scholarships, bursaries, and financial support for teacher training are available through government programs and educational institutions. These financial incentives are often offered to attract individuals into teaching, particularly in high-demand subjects or regions. Candidates pursuing QTS should explore scholarship opportunities that align with their chosen route and teaching specialization.

Benefits of obtaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS):

1. Professional Recognition: QTS is a recognized and respected teaching qualification that signifies an individual’s readiness and competence to teach in UK schools.

2. Career Opportunities: QTS opens the door to a wide range of teaching positions in primary and secondary schools, enabling individuals to pursue a rewarding career in education.

3. Personal Fulfillment: Teaching is a profession that allows individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of students, fostering their academic and personal development.

4. Career Progression: QTS is a foundation for career advancement in the field of education, including opportunities for leadership roles and specialization.

Marketability of Qualified Teacher Status (QTS):

QTS significantly enhances an individual’s marketability within the field of education. Here’s how it contributes to marketability:

1. Teaching Roles: QTS is a mandatory qualification for most teaching positions in state-funded schools in England, making it essential for securing employment as a teacher.

2. Competitive Advantage: QTS-certified teachers are preferred candidates in the job market, particularly in subjects with teacher shortages.

3. Transferable Skills: Teaching skills gained through QTS are highly transferable and can be applied in various educational settings, including international schools, private schools, and special education environments.

4. Career Mobility: Teachers with QTS can explore opportunities for career advancement, such as becoming headteachers, curriculum leaders, or educational consultants.

5. Continuous Professional Development: QTS encourages ongoing professional development and learning, allowing teachers to stay current with educational trends and best practices.

Overall, Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a valuable credential for individuals pursuing a career in education in England. It not only provides the necessary qualification to teach but also opens doors to a fulfilling and impactful career in the field of education.

2. Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) for early childhood education

What is Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS)? Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) is a professional teaching qualification specific to early childhood education in the United Kingdom. It is designed for individuals who want to specialize in teaching and caring for young children from birth to five years old. EYTS is recognized as a high-level qualification for professionals working in early years settings, such as nurseries, preschools, and early years foundation stage classes in primary schools.

Where to get the qualification? To obtain Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS), individuals typically need to follow a specific pathway, which includes completing an accredited early years teacher training program or course, gaining practical teaching experience with young children, and meeting assessment criteria. The pathway often involves the following steps:

1. Bachelor’s Degree: Most individuals who pursue EYTS have a relevant bachelor’s degree in early childhood education or a related field.

2. Teacher Training: Candidates complete an EYTS teacher training program, which is typically a one-year, postgraduate-level course that focuses on early childhood education and teaching.

3. Practical Experience: During the training program, candidates gain hands-on experience by working with young children in early years settings, and applying their knowledge and skills in real-world teaching environments.

4. Assessment: Candidates are assessed on their teaching practice, professional skills, and knowledge of early childhood education standards.

Cost of the Qualification – The cost of obtaining EYTS can vary depending on the university or training provider, the duration of the training program, and any financial support or bursaries that may be available. Candidates should check with the specific early years teacher training provider for current pricing details.

Possibility of Scholarship – Scholarships, bursaries, and financial support for early years teacher training may be available through government programs and educational institutions. These financial incentives are often offered to encourage individuals to pursue careers in early childhood education. Candidates pursuing EYTS should explore scholarship opportunities that align with their chosen training program.

Benefits of obtaining Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS):

1. Specialization in Early Childhood Education: EYTS provides specialized training and expertise in teaching and caring for young children during their crucial early years of development.

2. Career Opportunities: EYTS opens the door to a wide range of teaching and leadership roles in early years settings, including nursery schools, preschools, and foundation stage classes in primary schools.

3. Impact on Child Development: EYTS-certified teachers play a vital role in nurturing the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of young children, making a lasting impact on their lives.

4. Professional Recognition: EYTS is a recognized and respected qualification that signifies an individual’s readiness and competence to teach and lead in early years education.

Marketability of Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS):

EYTS significantly enhances an individual’s marketability within the field of early childhood education. Here’s how it contributes to marketability:

1. Essential Qualification: EYTS is essential for securing teaching positions in early years settings, as many employers require or prefer candidates with this qualification.

2. Specialized Expertise: EYTS-certified professionals are specialists in early childhood education, making them valuable assets to educational institutions that focus on young children’s development.

3. Competitive Advantage: EYTS-certified teachers are preferred candidates in the job market, especially in roles involving curriculum development and leadership in early years education.

4. Commitment to Quality Education: Holding EYTS demonstrates a commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education and improving outcomes for young learners.

5. Continuous Professional Development: EYTS encourages ongoing professional development and learning, allowing early years teachers to stay current with best practices and research in the field.

Overall, Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) is a prestigious and valuable qualification for individuals who are passionate about educating and nurturing young children. It equips early years professionals with the knowledge, skills, and recognition needed to excel in their careers and positively influence the early development of children.