The Ultimate Guide to the QTS AO

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QTS AO @ Derby

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 a minimum of 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.

QTS Entry Requirements

  • 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.

Fees and Payment Options

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

– Flywire instead – you can use any Credit Card, Union Pay, WeChat and Alipay)

– Third-party payments – from your school. 

IQTS 1 1

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. 

 

Key Benefits of the QTS Program

  1. Enhanced Employability. Gaining QTS through the AO route enhances your job market prospects, making you a more competitive candidate for teaching positions within the UK and internationally.
  2. Career Advancement. With QTS, you can access a wider range of career opportunities, including leadership and specialist roles within the education sector, such as head of department or curriculum coordinator.
  3. Flexibility. The QTS AO route is designed to fit around your current teaching commitments, allowing you to continue working while you complete the assessment process. This flexibility makes it easier to balance professional and personal responsibilities.
  4. Recognition of Experience. This route validates your existing teaching experience and skills, providing official recognition and allowing you to demonstrate your competence in meeting the Teachers’ Standards.
  5. Professional Development. Achieving QTS through the AO route contributes to your professional development, helping you to reflect on and improve your teaching practice.
  6. Cost-Effective. Since it does not require additional training, the QTS AO route can be a more cost-effective option compared to traditional teacher training programs

Module Content

The QTS AO route assesses your teaching competence through practical experience and portfolio evidence, focusing on key areas:

  • Professional Knowledge: Understanding curriculum, effective teaching methods, and assessment techniques.
  • Classroom Management: Managing behavior, planning lessons, and inclusive teaching.
  • Professional Responsibilities: Engaging in reflective practice, professional development, and collaboration.
  • Evidence Portfolio: Documenting teaching observations, student work, and professional development activities.
  • Final Assessment: Includes a formal teaching observation, an interview, and a comprehensive portfolio review.

This route validates your teaching experience, providing a streamlined pathway to achieving Qualified Teacher Status.

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QTS Online Learning Experience

Teaching Methods:

  • Interactive Lectures: Engaging online lectures with interactive elements to facilitate understanding.
  • Practical Assignments: Real-world teaching assignments to apply theoretical knowledge.
  • Reflective Practice: Emphasis on reflective practice to continually improve teaching methods.
  • Peer Collaboration: Group projects and peer review to foster collaboration and diverse perspectives.

Online Learning Experience:

  • Flexible Schedule: Study at your own pace with a schedule that fits your lifestyle.
  • Virtual Classrooms: Interactive virtual classrooms for live discussions and Q&A sessions.
  • Comprehensive Resources: Access to a wide range of online resources, including readings, videos, and case studies.
  • Continuous Support: Regular support from tutors and access to a global network of fellow students. 

Career Prospects

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.

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

Student Support:

  • Dedicated Tutors: Access to experienced tutors for personalized guidance.
  • Regular Check-Ins: Scheduled sessions to monitor progress and address concerns.
  • Peer Support: Collaborative projects and forums for peer interaction and support.
  • Technical Assistance: Helpdesk support for any technical issues with the online platform.

Resources:

  • We work with Pebblepad this collates all your evidence
  •  

How do we compare?

The Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) Assessment Only (AO) route and International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) both offer unique advantages for educators, but they cater to different needs and career goals.

QTS Assessment Only (AO)

QTS AO is ideal for experienced teachers working in the UK who need to formalize their qualifications quickly. The program provides:

  • Immediate Qualification: Achieve QTS in one academic year.
  • UK School Placement: Gain practical experience in a UK school, which is highly valued by employers.
  • Comprehensive Support: Benefit from dedicated mentorship, regular check-ins, and extensive teaching resources.
  • Career Boost: Enhanced employability in UK schools and clear pathways to leadership and specialized roles.

International QTS (iQTS)

iQTS is designed for teachers aiming to work internationally, offering flexibility and global recognition. The program features:

  • Global Focus: Ideal for those teaching outside the UK, with no requirement for UK school placement.
  • Fully Online: Flexible schedule suitable for various time zones.
  • Global Recognition: Recognized worldwide, making it ideal for international schools.
  • Online Resources: Access to virtual support and a range of learning materials.
  • Why Choose QTS AO?

Choosing QTS AO provides immediate benefits for your teaching career in the UK:

  • Immediate Impact: Fast-track your qualification and improve career prospects.
  • In-School Experience: Gain valuable practical experience in the UK education system.
  • Robust Support: Enjoy extensive guidance from mentors and access to comprehensive resources.
  • Leadership Pathways: Establish a strong foundation for advancing into leadership roles within the UK education system.

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."
Silva
SilvaEY Teacher Shrewsbury, Bangkok
"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."
Andrew H.
Andrew H.Head of English, Wycombe Abbey Changzhou
"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."
J. Taylor
J. TaylorEnglish Teacher, Australian International School HCMC
"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."
Colin S.
Colin S.Head of Maths, Shanghai American School Puxi

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

Schedule an Appointment

For a personal consultation, contact us via WeChat to schedule a time that suits you. We’re dedicated to providing the advice you need.

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QTS AO Questions Answered

Who is the course for? The course is for individuals working in a school who want to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and improve their teaching skills.
Who is eligible for the UWE IQTS course? Applicants should have at least two years of teaching experience and support from their school, including a mentor.
What are the entry requirements for the Primary (5-11 years) course? You need a GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics and Science and an undergraduate degree (2:2 or higher) or an equivalent qualification.
What are the entry requirements for the Secondary (11-16 years) course? You need a GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, an undergraduate degree (2:2 or higher) or an equivalent qualification, and a strong understanding of your chosen subject at the appropriate age range.
What other criteria must be met to enrol in the course? Applicants must be working in a supportive school, complete 120 days of teaching practice, record some teaching sessions, have a mentor, and demonstrate English proficiency (minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall).
How do I apply for the UWE IQTS course? You need to be a full-time main class teacher for at least two years, complete the Additional Information Form with a personal statement, apply online through the UWE Bristol portal, and upload necessary documents.
What is the structure of the UWE IQTS course? The course includes 120 days of teaching practice over 36 weeks, subject knowledge audits, school-based tasks, and reflective elements accessed via the PebblePad platform, with live induction and tutor meetings.
How is the course assessed? Assessment involves an online portfolio, evaluations by the school mentor and UWE Bristol tutor through lesson observations and professional conversations, a six-week final assessed teaching practice, and a viva voce.
What is the cost of the course? The course fee is £4,750, which can be paid in instalments.
Can I defer my place on the course? No, deferrals are not accepted for this course.
What are the English language requirements for international applicants? International applicants must have an overall IELTS score of 6.5, with at least 6.0 in each component, unless exempt.
What are the upcoming start dates? Start dates are in September and January, and you can begin after completing the application process and meeting eligibility requirements.
Do I need my GCSEs before starting IQTS? Yes, IPGCE (5-11) requires Maths and Science C Grade, IPGCE (11-18) requires Maths C Grade. You should meet the eligibility criteria before starting the IQTS course and can check your qualifications against the U.K.’s GCSEs using ENIC or organise an equivalent test.
Do I have to teach in a British school to do my IQTS? No, you can be teaching in any international school context.
How much do I need to be teaching every week? You need at least 15 hours of in-class contact time per week, progressing to full ownership of those hours.
What support is required from my school? Your school needs to provide a mentor and sufficient time for observations and feedback during the 36-week assessment period.
What does the interview entail? You need strong knowledge and skills in your subject area, a personal statement explaining your motivation, and you will be evaluated on your prior knowledge during the admissions process.
What are in-school mentors responsible for? Mentors must observe you weekly, provide feedback, support your justification statements against Teachers’ Standards, and meet with the UWE tutor at least once every seven weeks.
I have never taught the British Curriculum. Is this a problem? Not necessarily, as prior experience in schools with international curriculums similar to the British curriculum is considered.
The mentor has 5 years of teaching experience but no QTS in my current school. Can they act as mentors? Yes, if they have the necessary teaching experience and understanding of the UK curriculum and Teachers’ Standards.
What if I am teaching an American AP curriculum now but have taught a British curriculum in the past? You are eligible if you provide evidence of teaching and your current curriculum can be mapped to the British curriculum.
During the IQTS course, will we need to prepare a file containing evidence? Yes, you will write eight justifications to prove you meet the Teachers’ Standards, with guidance provided.
Does the course prepare you for the QTS process? Yes, you will be supported through writing justifications and lesson observations to prove you meet the Teachers’ Standards of England.
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