The Ultimate Guide to the QTS AO

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QTS AO Overview

The Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) Assessment Only (AO) route is designed for experienced educators who wish to gain QTS without undergoing further training.

This pathway is ideal for those with significant teaching experience who can demonstrate their competence in meeting the Teachers’ Standards.

Eligibility for the QTS AO route requires at least two years of teaching experience, often in a UK or international setting. The assessment process is based on practical teaching experience, portfolio evidence, and observed lessons. This route typically takes between three months to a year to complete, depending on individual circumstances and readiness, offering flexibility for teachers to achieve QTS while continuing their current teaching roles.

Entry Requirements and Eligibility

Photographic ID (i.e. passport or driving licence)
A copy of your original degree certificate and ENIC statement of comparability, if applicable
A copy of your original GCSE maths and English certificates, along with science if you’re applying for Primary QTS. If your education was completed outside the UK, you will need an ENIC statement of comparability or equivalency tests
Testimonies from two schools to evidence two years of teaching, i.e. from both your current main school and a second school experience. Please use the template provided on the portal.

If you have said yes to everything and can meet all the course requirements, we would welcome your application and look forward to supporting you on the AO route to QTS.

If you do not, there is another way to QTS; contact us for more information.

Fees and Payment Options

QTS AO Course Full Course Payment £3,350

The University’s accepted payment methods are listed below. Payments made by any other means will be returned.

Payments should be made by the student or parent/guardian. We do not accept payments from:

Bank transfers directly into the Derby bank account (use Flywire instead – this does not affect Direct Debit agreements)
Third-party payments – unless from an approved sponsor. If you make a third-party payment, our Finance Compliance Team may contact you.

Receipts:
We cannot provide receipts after a payment. However, online payments generate an automatic email receipt. Direct Debit or recurring card payments will show on your bank statement.

Detailed Course Description

Fully Online

The IQTS AO program is delivered through an award-winning online platform. It blends current teaching theory with classroom practice and draws upon decades of practical, classroom-based teaching expertise and higher education provision.

World Class Mentors

High-quality, engaged teaching and a supportive, stimulating learning environment will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to achieve your potential and progress to a dream teaching job or take a more active role in a leadership position.

QTS Content

The Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) program covers a comprehensive range of topics designed to equip educators with the skills and knowledge necessary for effective teaching in diverse educational settings. Here’s an overview of the core content areas:

1. Teaching and Learning

Pedagogical Theories: Key teaching theories and classroom applications.
Lesson Planning: Designing effective and engaging lessons.
Classroom Management: Maintaining a positive learning environment.

2. Curriculum and Assessment

Curriculum Design: Developing and adapting curricula.
Assessment Methods: Techniques to measure and support learning.
Reflective Practice: Self-reflection for continuous improvement.

3. Inclusive Education

Diverse Learners: Teaching students with diverse needs.
Special Educational Needs (SEN): Supporting SEN students.
Equity and Inclusion: Promoting inclusive education.

4. Professional Development

Reflective Practice: Skills for ongoing self-evaluation.
Educational Technology: Using technology to enhance learning.
Career Development: Preparing for leadership roles.

5. Practical Experience

Teaching Practice: Real-world teaching through placements or simulations.
Observation and Feedback: Improving through constructive feedback.
Action Research: Research projects to tackle educational challenges.

Course Expectations

This route leads to AO by preparing you for it, supporting you through to the 2 year threshold and can range from a 1 to a 5 term course
It allows you to build up to 2 years of experience and/or gain experience in another school
You can start this course and complete equivalency tests or the Fundamental Maths Test during the route
You will prepare your justifications for AO
You will get support from an in-school mentor and Derby Pathway Tutor to help you get ready for the AO route

Career Prospects and Opportunities

The Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) Assessment Only (AO) route provides numerous career opportunities for educators. Here’s a brief overview of the prospects:

Teacher Training: Train and mentor new teachers.

Primary and Secondary Schools: Teach in state and independent schools in the UK.

Specialist Positions: Subject-specific roles and SEN teaching.

Immediate Qualification: Achieve QTS quickly and validate your teaching credentials.

Increased Employability: Stand out in the job market with recognized status.

International Teaching: Enhanced prospects for international school positions.

Middle Leadership: Roles like head of department or key stage coordinator.

Senior Leadership: Positions such as deputy headteacher or headteacher.

And More…

Course Duration and Timetable

Course Duration:

Total Duration: Typically completed within 12 weeks.

Timetable:

Initial Assessment: Review of teaching experience and readiness.
Portfolio Development: Compile evidence of teaching practice and competency.
Classroom Observations: Scheduled observations by an assessor in your teaching environment.
Feedback Sessions: Regular feedback and guidance from your assessor.
Final Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of your teaching practice.

Student Support and Resources

The QTS Assessment Only (AO) route offers comprehensive support and resources to ensure your success in achieving Qualified Teacher Status. Here’s what you can expect:

Support and Guidance

Dedicated Mentor: Personal mentor for guidance and support throughout the course.
Regular Check-ins: Scheduled sessions to monitor progress and address concerns.

Learning Materials

Online Resources: Access to a wide range of teaching materials, including articles, videos, and case studies.
Assessment Guidance: Detailed guidelines and examples to help prepare for assessments.

Professional Development

Workshops and Seminars: Opportunities to attend educational workshops and webinars.
Reflective Practice Tools: Resources to aid in self-reflection and continuous improvement.

Technical Support

Helpdesk: Technical assistance for any online platform issues.
User Guides: Step-by-step guides for navigating online resources and tools.

How do we compare?

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

QTS is primarily recognized within the UK and is essential for those teaching or intending to teach in UK schools. It includes various training routes, such as university-led, school-led, and assessment-only pathways. QTS is suitable for teaching roles in primary and secondary schools across the UK and is often a requirement for state-maintained schools.

International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS)

iQTS is designed for international recognition, making it ideal for educators teaching outside the UK. This status is typically offered through flexible, online programs, catering to international educators or those seeking to work abroad. iQTS opens up opportunities in international schools and educational institutions worldwide.

Key Differences

While QTS is UK-specific and may require in-person training, iQTS is globally recognized and usually delivered online for maximum flexibility. QTS targets educators within the UK education system, whereas iQTS is tailored for international teaching careers, broadening global opportunities.

Alumni Testimonials and Success Stories

"This course has allowed me to apply successfully to a high-level international school. Without it, I would not have made the shortlisted candidates. All the Mentors at Derby are very supportive, and they were keen to help me throughout the process."

"The department has an entire team of people here to help you. Whether with your portfolio or general guidance, they will ensure that every student is successful in their academic experience. It was the best investment I ever made."

"A well-designed course with prompt and thoughtful tutor feedback. Sarah was always very upbeat, and the content was on-point. Being online with such a diverse group was engaging, and I now have contacts to use worldwide."

"I especially enjoyed the detailed feedback from my mentor. This gave me innovative tools that engage my students in the learning process. The method has given me the confidence to take my career to the next level."

How can I Apply?

Ready to take the next step in your teaching career?

If you need to discuss the courses we have on offer with our Education experts, please use one of the following methods to get in touch:

WhatApp: +60179958984

WeChat: 13795440353

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