QTS & QTLS – What’s the Difference?
If you’re exploring a career in teaching, understanding the qualifications is crucial. Two common terms in the teaching profession are QTS and QTLS. At Future Step we regularly get asked the question ‘what’s the difference between QTS and QTLS’? So we thought we would provide clarity on the situation as although they sound similar, they have distinct requirements and applications. Here, our aim is to clarify the differences to help you decide which is best for you, whether your focus is on primary education, secondary, or further education.
What is QTS?
QTS, or Qualified Teacher Status, is essential if you want to teach in schools across England. This certification is often achieved through a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) or a Bachelor’s degree in Education, both of which prepare you to teach across primary and secondary schools. To apply for QTS, you’ll typically need an undergraduate degree in your desired teaching subject. After completing your studies, you’ll also go through an induction period (usually your first teaching year) before being fully qualified to teach independently.
There are assessment-only options for QTS as well, ideal for experienced teachers from abroad or individuals with substantial teaching experience but no formal certification. This assessment approach skips lengthy coursework and instead evaluates teaching skills directly in the classroom, making it a faster route for those who qualify.
What is QTLS?
QTLS, or Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills Status, is awarded through the Society for Education and Training (SET) and is generally aimed at those teaching in further education (FE), such as sixth-form colleges and technical colleges. While QTLS isn’t typically a requirement for primary or secondary school positions, it’s highly valued in FE institutions. Teachers with QTLS are qualified to teach older students—usually ages 16 and up—in a more specialised or vocational environment, focusing on advanced skills that prepare students for the workforce.
To earn QTLS, you can complete a Level 5 Diploma in Teaching, which includes around 250 hours of teaching practice. After gaining QTLS, you’ll need to stay a SET member and continuously develop your skills to maintain your status, an aspect unique to QTLS holders.
Key Differences Between QTS and QTLS
- Duration and Pathways
QTS generally takes longer to achieve, often requiring a year-long PGCE course plus the induction period for hands-on teaching experience in schools. In contrast, QTLS is faster to achieve if you’ve completed your Level 5 Diploma and meet the teaching-hour requirements.
- Requirements
While QTS requires an undergraduate degree in your chosen teaching subject, QTLS has fewer formal requirements, allowing those with extensive vocational experience and industry skills to transition into teaching more quickly. For example, a professional in engineering or business might obtain QTLS without a formal degree in teaching but will need to demonstrate teaching competency through the Level 5 Diploma.
- Scope and Acceptability
QTS is recognised for teaching at any level up to secondary school. In contrast, QTLS is more accepted in further education settings but is also valid for teaching certain subjects in secondary schools, especially those with technical or vocational focuses. However, QTLS alone is rarely accepted for primary school teaching positions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can someone with QTLS teach in a primary school?
In most cases, primary schools require QTS for teachers due to the distinct skillset needed for young learners. However, QTLS holders can teach specific technical subjects in secondary schools and are particularly valued for vocational programs.
- What’s the best path if I want to get into teaching but don’t have a degree?
If you want to teach without a degree, gaining a Level 5 Diploma and then pursuing QTLS could be a good option. However, for those interested in teaching younger students in primary or secondary schools, it’s best to work towards an undergraduate degree and follow a QTS pathway.
- Does QTLS allow for the same career advancement as QTS?
QTLS offers great flexibility, particularly for teaching in further education. However, if you aim to climb the ranks in a primary or secondary school setting, QTS is generally more suitable, as it’s universally accepted at all levels of school education.
- Is there an induction period required for QTLS holders like there is for QTS?
QTLS doesn’t have a formal induction period like QTS. Instead, maintaining QTLS involves continued professional development and active SET membership to keep your teaching skills updated.
- Can international teachers apply for QTS or QTLS?
Yes! Experienced international teachers may apply for QTS through the assessment-only route, provided they meet the criteria. For QTLS, an international qualification may be recognised as equivalent to a Level 5 Diploma, allowing you to work toward QTLS status if you plan to teach in further education.
Getting Started
Deciding between QTS and QTLS largely depends on where you want to teach and your background. For aspiring primary or secondary school teachers, QTS remains the standard route. Those interested in vocational or higher education teaching might find QTLS to be the right fit.
If you’re ready to get into teaching, reach out to us here or call 0203 633 8404 for guidance on which teacher training path aligns best with your career goals.
The path to making a difference in the lives of young learners, teenagers, and adults starts here!
