Introduction
Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) is a professional status conferred by the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) in the United Kingdom to those who teach in the further education and training sector. It is a status that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and experience of teachers who have not followed the traditional route to gaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through a degree in education or a postgraduate certificate in education. QTLS is a highly-regarded qualification, and it offers many benefits to those who hold it. This article will explore the benefits of QTLS status and its pathways.
QTLS Pathways
To obtain QTLS, candidates can follow one of two pathways: the Professional Formation or the Assessment Only pathway.
Professional Formation Pathway
The Professional Formation pathway is suitable for teachers who have a Level 3 teaching qualification or a degree that is not in education. This pathway involves demonstrating competence in six areas of practice, including planning and delivering learning sessions, assessing learners, and evaluating own practice. Candidates must complete a portfolio of evidence and a reflective account, which is assessed by a trained assessor.
Assessment Only Pathway
The Assessment Only pathway is for teachers who have extensive experience and can demonstrate that they meet the QTLS standards without any further training. This pathway involves submitting a portfolio of evidence and attending an interview, where the candidate’s knowledge, skills, and experience are assessed by a panel of experts.
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Benefits of QTLS Status
Recognition of Professional Status
QTLS status is a recognition of professional status, indicating that a teacher has met the rigorous standards of the ETF. It is a mark of quality that demonstrates a teacher’s competence and expertise in their field. QTLS status is highly regarded by employers, and it can improve job prospects and career progression.
Career Advancement
Holding QTLS status can open up new career opportunities and enhance career progression. It can demonstrate to employers that a teacher has the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to take on leadership roles or other responsibilities within an organization. QTLS status can also enhance a teacher’s ability to deliver training and development to other teachers or staff members.
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Improved Teaching Skills
QTLS status requires teachers to demonstrate a high level of competence in teaching and learning. It involves developing skills in areas such as lesson planning, delivery, and assessment. Through the QTLS process, teachers are encouraged to reflect on their practice and identify areas for improvement. This can lead to improved teaching skills and better outcomes for learners.
Access to Professional Development
Holding QTLS status provides access to a range of professional development opportunities. This includes access to the Society for Education and Training (SET), which provides support, resources, and training to teachers in the further education and training sector. SET membership offers a range of benefits, including access to professional journals, events, and networking opportunities.
Salary Increase
Holding QTLS status can lead to a salary increase. Many employers offer higher salaries to teachers who hold QTLS status, as it demonstrates a higher level of competence and expertise. In addition, some employers offer financial incentives or bonuses to teachers who achieve QTLS status.
Conclusion
QTLS status is a valuable professional qualification that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and experience of teachers in the further education and training sector. It offers a range of benefits, including recognition of professional status, career advancement, improved teaching skills, access to professional development, and salary increase. The QTLS pathways, including the Professional Formation and Assessment Only pathway, provide a flexible and accessible route to achieving QTLS status.