It's time to gain the recognition you've earned with a powerful step forward in your career. Whether you're starting out or want to develop your current role, we suggest you consider Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) Status.
QTLS is a nationally respected professional status which helps you:
demonstrate your commitment
grow your practice
stand out in the FE and skills sector.
YOUR QTLS JOURNEY STARS HERE
The QTLS application window is open!
Whether you're exploring QTLS for the first time or ready to apply, we'll help you take the next step.
Am I eligible for QTLS?
Make sure you meet the requirements
QTLS is designed for teachers and trainers working in the FE and skills sector, with appropriate and current teaching practice.
Already a Member or Fellow?
Check your suitability
If you hold Member or Fellow membership, sign in to access our suitability checker and start your QTLS application today.
Not an ETF member yet?
Join ETF to apply for QTLS
You'll need to have a Member or Fellow membership to access the suitability checker and apply for QTLS.
99% of QTLS holders said it positively impacted their teaching practice, their learners and their wider organisation
'If I was speaking to someone who was thinking of getting QTLS, I would say that it will give you the ability to be more reflective as a practitioner.
You will also feel that you are defined by a set of professional standards and it will then help you move forward within the teaching profession, because it's about that wider professional development.'
Samya MSET QTLS, Deputy Group Curriculum Director at NCC
Why choose QTLS?
With QTLS, you can achieve these benefits already enjoyed by over 27,000 of your peers:
Progress your career with status that employers value
Earn recognition across the FE and skills sector
Build confidence and credibility in your teaching
Increase your earning potential
Strengthen your teaching practice
Improve outcomes for your students
Choose your cohort
The QTLS application window is now open.
You can apply for one of the two cohorts, depending on when you're ready to begin. Both cohorts follow the same six-month structured programme.
Our October 2026 cohort runs from Monday 26 October 2026 to Wednesday 31 March 2027
Application window closes on 29 September 2026
Our January 2027 cohort runs from Monday 25 January 2027 to Wednesday 30 June 2027
Application window closes on 26 October 2026
October 2026 cohort
Ideal if you're ready to begin soon and want to progress this year.
January 2027 cohort
A great option if you want more time to prepare before starting.
Need more information?
Explore our QTLS FAQs
Thinking about QTLS?
Find out more by reading answers to popular questions that sector professionals ask us.
Get support and guidance
Need help or not sure where to start?
Our team is here to support you with clear guidance on eligibility, applications and preparing for QTLS.
Sign up for QTLS updates
Stay informed about QTLS
Register your interest today and we'll keep in touch about QTLS and related guidance and updates.
What to expect
QTLS is designed for teachers and trainers working in the FE and skills sector.
Professionals participating in the programme find it both demanding and very rewarding. If you choose to take up the QTLS opportunity, we will be on hand to support you.
Grow your practice through a structured, rigorous and rewarding six-month process
Assess your practice against defined professional national standards and go on to draft a professional development plan
The programme gives you space to focus on your needs as you complete CPD to address your areas for development
You'll be reviewed on your individual development
You'll spend an average of four hours per week on the programme
Fees: £55 to apply and £570 for the programme fees. Please note you can only pay by card
Support throughout your journey
QTLS is a structured and supported process – you won't be doing it alone.
We provide clear guidance, resources and support at every stage, from preparing your application through to completing the programme.
You'll have everything you need to succeed directly from us, and we recommend coming to us for trusted, official guidance.
We do not endorse or partner with any third-party organisations offering paid support services for QTLS. If you need help at any stage, our team is here to support you.
'QTLS has empowered me to contribute more confidently and credibly to the wider education landscape. It's a transformative journey that has enhanced both my daily practice and long-term leadership capacity.'
Filip Szatkowski MSET QTLS, Lead Practitioner
'Gathering evidence of my impact helped me see the real difference I make to my learners' lives - not just in skills, but in self-belief. QTLS has opened up new opportunities - I'm now actively contributing to cross-curricular innovation in my organisation.'
Monique De Jager MSET QTLS, The Iffley Academy
'The QTLS programme supported me in securing my current role as Post-16 Literacy Coordinator and has strengthened my confidence, planning, and assessment practice. I now feel better equipped to support students, mentor colleagues, and contribute meaningfully to the wider education community.'
Paul Hayward MSET QTLS, Post-16 Literacy Coordinator
ETF Partnership
ETF Partnership offers long-term, tailored collaboration to support your organisation's professional development goals.
You can enhance the skillset and confidence of your team by supporting them to undertake QTLS or ATS programmes as part of your ETF Partnership.
Please note that our Professional Status Register is currently offline for maintenance - click below to learn how to verify QTLS/ATS status and access alternative checks.
