Can I Become a Teacher Without Going to University?

Don’t let not going to university hold you back from a dream career in teaching. Contrary to popular belief, there are routes into teaching that don’t require a university degree. In this article, find out how you can become a teacher without a degree.

Routes to becoming a teacher

There are many routes to becoming a qualified teacher, and some are more popular than others. You’ve probably heard of the following:

• PGCE — a university-led professional qualification
• Teach First — a two-year teacher training course for graduates
• Undergraduate teaching degree — a QTS-infused course to be completed at a university

All of these routes lead to getting qualified teacher status (QTS). However, obtaining QTS isn’t the only way to become a teacher. An alternative is the Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) route. 

What is QTLS?

Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) is the badge of professionalism for post-14 education and training. It is essentially status certifying you to teach in post-14 education and training. Since 2014, teachers and trainers holding QTLS status who are also members of SET have equal status as QTS.

How to get QTLS?

You can apply for QTLS status after completing the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (DIT) and completing professional formation. Professional formation is a post-qualification process in which you demonstrate the skills and knowledge gained from your teacher training qualification.

The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching is the most advanced RQF teaching qualification awarded by Training Qualifications UK, an OFQUAL regulated awarding organisation. It builds upon the content found in the Level 3 Award in Education and Training and the Level 4 Award in Education in Training but can be completed without earning either qualification.

You do not need a degree to enrol on the Level 5 course, but you will need to satisfy the following entry requirements:

• Aged 19 and above
• Have adequate reading and communication skills
• Not have a criminal background which prevents you from working with young people or vulnerable adults
• Hold a relevant qualification at a level above that of your learners; ideally at least Level 3 in their area of specialism
• Have a basic grasp of literacy, language, numeracy and ICT

Where can I complete the DET?

You can enrol on a DIT online through CTC Training. You’ll gain access to the 24/7 student portal where you can view course content and upload assessments at your leisure.

The DIT requires you to log at least 150 hours of teaching practice in a real classroom to complete the course. You will also complete approximately 395 hours of guided learning and 805 hours of self-directed study.

Enrol today or contact our team for more information.