5 Steps to Teach in the UK via QTS:

Is QTS Your Gateway to Teach in the UK?

can I teach in England with years of experience from my home country If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How can I teach in England with years of experience from my home country?” You’re not alone.

Many experienced educators dream of transitioning to the UK education system but get held back by uncertainty around how to TEACH IN THE UK VIA QTS (Qualified Teacher Status).

Here’s the good news: there’s a tailored pathway called the Assessment Only Route that lets you teach in the UK via QTS without undergoing full retraining. Whether you’re currently in the UK or abroad, if you have the teaching chops, this could be your golden ticket.

Let’s explore how you can get started step by step.

What Is QTS?

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is an essential teaching credential required to teach in schools across England and Wales. Think of it as your professional teaching license that validates you’re ready and equipped to teach.

Without QTS, your career in UK teaching may be limited. But with QTS, you’re seen as a recognized professional—and doors open to teaching roles that offer visa sponsorship, better pay, and long-term job security.

How to Teach in UK via QTC: The 4 Pathways to QTS

Before we dive into the Assessment Only Route, it’s important to understand the broader QTS landscape. There are four main ways to obtain QTS in the UK:

1. Direct Application for QTS

This route is for teachers from specific countries (like the U.S., Canada, Australia, and more). If your credentials meet UK standards, you can apply directly on the UK government website and potentially get your QTS in as little as 21 days.

2. Training to Teach in England

You move to the UK, join a teacher training program (typically 10 months), and earn QTS upon successful completion. Popular for subjects in demand (like physics, math, and computer science), this route often comes with funding options.

3. International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS)

For teachers outside the UK who want to train remotely. You receive online guidance while working in your home country. Once complete, you earn QTS without ever stepping foot in the UK. This option, however, can be expensive—fees often exceed £9,000.

4. Assessment Only Route (The Fast Track Option)

If you’re already experienced and meet UK teaching standards, this is your quickest and most affordable way to get QTS—within 12 weeks. No further training is needed, just a detailed assessment of your existing teaching ability.

This post focuses on this Assessment Only Route.

What Is the Assessment Only Route to QTS?

The Assessment Only Route (AOR) is designed for experienced educators who can already demonstrate they meet UK teaching standards. You won’t need to retrain; instead, a UK-accredited provider will observe and assess your teaching in your current school.

Benefits of This Route:

• Fast: Complete in as little as 3 months
• Affordable: Costs range from £4,000
• Flexible: Available for teachers inside and outside the UK
• No need to relocate initially if applying from abroad

Eligibility Criteria for Assessment Only QTS

To qualify, you must meet these 4 key requirements:

1. Demonstrate Teaching Standards: Show you’re already teaching at a UK-qualified level—no further training needed.
2. Work in Two or More Schools: You must have experience in at least two different schools.
3. Hold a Degree: A recognized bachelor’s degree is mandatory.
4. GCSEs or Equivalents:

• Grade 4 (or C) and above in English and math
• For primary teachers, a Science GCSE is also required

For Primary Teachers:

You must have experience teaching across three key age ranges:

• Ages 3–11 (Primary)
• Ages 7–14 (Middle School)
• Ages 11–19 (Secondary)

Can You Apply If You’re Outside the UK?

Yes. Non-UK teachers can apply if they:

• Have the required experience
• Work in a school that meets UK-equivalent standards
• Agree to an on-site assessment at their school by a UK provider

💡 Note: Not every school abroad is eligible. Always consult with your chosen provider to verify your workplace meets assessment standards.

Top 5 Providers Offering Assessment Only QTS

Here are the official institutions recognized by the UK Department for Education:

1. Buckingham International School of Education
2. Education Success Partners
3. TES Institute International
4. University of Derby
5. University of Sunderland

Most of these institutions provide direct email contacts and phone numbers for guidance. Reach out to them to begin the application proces

What Does the Process Look Like?

Here’s what you can expect:

Step 1: Self-Assess

Read the UK government’s official 25-page guidance titled Assessment Only Route to QTS: Criteria and Supporting Services.

Step 2: Contact a Provider

Send a professional email to the institution of your choice. Ask about:

• Application requirements
• Fees
• Eligibility of your current school
• Timeline

Step 3: Get Assessed

Once approved, an assessor will visit your school (or assess remotely if you’re in the UK) over a 12-week period.

Step 4: Receive Your QTS

If successful, you’ll receive your Qualified Teacher Status, officially allowing you to teach in England and Wales.

Step 5: Start Applying for Jobs

With your QTS in hand, you can apply for QTS-required roles in state schools. Many offer visa sponsorship.

Assessment Only Route to QTS Inquiry—International Applican”t

Make your email polite and professional. If you’re unsure, use a writing tool or AI assistant to help you craft it.

Your UK Teaching Journey Starts Now

Teaching in the UK can feel like a distant dream, especially if you’re outside the country. But the Assessment Only Route makes it accessible even for international educators.

If you’ve got experience, passion, and the right credentials, now is the time to teach in the UK via QTC and earn your QTS in just 12 weeks.

Don’t sit on this opportunity. Download the official guidance, contact a provider, and start your application today. Share this post with fellow educators who are ready to take the next big step in their career!

Most Asked FAQs: Teach in UK via QTC

1. What is QTS?
   QTS stands for Qualified Teacher Status—required to teach in state schools in England and Wales.
2. What does QTC mean in this context?
   It refers to “Qualified Teacher Certification” or the process leading to QTS.
3. Can I apply from outside the UK?
   Yes, as long as you meet eligibility criteria.
4. How long does the Assessment Only Route take?
   Approximately 12 weeks.
5. Do I need to train again?
   No—only if you already meet teaching standards.
6. How much does it cost?
   Between £1,500 and £1,500–£4,000 (can be higher outside the UK).
7. Is the QTS valid in other countries?
   Yes, QTS is internationally recognized.
8. What documents do I need?
   Degree certificate, teaching records, references, GCSEs, or equivalent.
9. Can I bring dependents?
   Not through QTS alone—depends on your visa type later.
10. Which schools are eligible for assessment?
    Only schools approved by UK teacher training providers.
11. Is there funding or bursary support?
    No bursaries for the Assessment Only Route.
12. Do I need a UK visa to start?
    Not for assessment abroad, but yes if relocating.
13. Can I apply with a third-class degree?
    No, a recognized bachelor’s degree is required.
14. Can teaching assistants apply?
    Yes, with 2+ years of experience and solo class handling.
15. Can I teach in Wales with QTS?
    Yes, but not in Scotland or Northern Ireland.
16. Can I use iQTS instead?
    Yes, if you’re interested in online training while abroad.
17. How do I contact providers?
    Through their email addresses and phone numbers (listed on the government site).
18. Is QTS permanent?
    Yes, once awarded, it does not expire.
19. Do I need to submit lesson plans?
    Yes, for evaluation during the assessment.
20. Is this the best route for experienced teachers?
    Absolutely—especially if you already meet UK standards.