How Do I Gain QTLS Status?

Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) is a professional status recognised in the education sector. Previously only for teaching students over the age of 14, QTLS status became equivalent to QTS status in April 2014, meaning holders can teach across all subjects and ages. 

The route to gaining QTLS status is not the same as gaining QTS status. If you’re interested in becoming a qualified teacher, earning QTLS status may be your best option. In this article, we’ll explain what QTLS status is in more detail and explain the route you need to take to earn it.

What is QTLS status?

QTLS status is the badge of professionalism for teaching and training in the post-14 education sector. By holding QTLS status, you will be able to teach learners of all ages and help them progress in their education or career. 

As previously noted, holding QTLS has the same status as QTS, including equal pay and conditions. Since becoming law in 2014, holders of QTLS have gained a wider scope of career opportunities.

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How do I apply for QTLS status?

To obtain QTLS status, you must first complete the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching. This is the most advanced of the three adult education training courses, but can be completed without having earned the level 3 or level 4 qualifications. We take a look at the level 5 Diploma in Teaching in more detail in the next section.

Once you have completed the level 5 course, you can apply for professional formation. Professional formation is the process in which you will demonstrate that you possess the knowledge and skills required to be a teacher. If you demonstrate your proficiency successfully, you will be awarded QTLS.

What is the Level 5 Diploma in Teaching

The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (DIT) is the updated version of the DTLLS qualification. It is the most advanced teaching qualification for the adult education sector and involves a combination of online learning and in-class teaching. 

There are approximately 1200 hours of study time required for this course, with most learners completing the course in approximately 8-12 months. Much of the course can be completed online at your own pace, but you will also need to complete a minimum of 150 hours of in-class teaching practice.

You do not need to have completed the level 3 or level 4 courses before enrolling on the level 5 DIT. The only entry requirements are:

• You are aged 19 and above
• Be qualified and/or experienced in your subject specialism
• You have adequate reading and communication skills
• You do not have a criminal background which would prevent you from working with young people or vulnerable adults
• You have a suitable level of digital competency and a minimum of level 2 in both maths and English
• A teaching placement is required and should be a minimum of 250 hours, with at least 150 hours dedicated to teaching practice.  A minimum of 80 hours of this should be face-to-face teaching and a minimum of 20 hours should be remote delivery.

What does QTLS allow me to do?

Holding QTLS status will enable you to teach a range of academic or vocational subjects in various settings, including:

• Sixth form colleges
• Universities
• Adult education centres
• Prisons and youth offender organisations
• Charities

You’ll be able to teach in whichever sector you wish to. Some examples of sectors you can work in include:

• Health industry
• Beauty industry
• Care homes
• NHS Trusts
• Emergency services
• Midwifery
• HM Forces
• Laboratory technicians
• Security industry
• Special needs education
• Secondary education
• Primary and nursery education

The Level 5 Diploma in Teaching can be completed at your own pace with CTC Training. Enrol on a Level 5 course and you’ll gain access to our student portal, where you can view course content and upload assessments at your leisure. Choose to pay up front or on a monthly payment plan to suit your budget. 

Enrol today or contact our team for more information.