If you're considering Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status, it's natural to want to know exactly what is involved before you apply.

This guidance explains what QTLS is, what you'll be expected to do during the professional formation process, and the role of your nominated supporter. The process is designed to help you reflect on and develop your teaching practice while demonstrating your commitment to professional excellence in the FE and skills sector.

 

What is QTLS?

QTLS is a professional status achieved through successfully completing a developmental period called professional formation. QTLS is not a qualification. Instead, it is a professional status that recognises effective teaching and training practice, ongoing professional development, and a commitment to excellence within the FE and skills sector. 

During professional formation, participants work through an online portfolio over a six-month period, providing evidence of how they have developed their practice in relation to the Professional Standards for Teachers and Trainers.

Throughout the process, participants demonstrate the effective application of their skills, knowledge and profesional judgement in their teaching or training role, while receiving support from a nominated supporter.

Professional formation enables participants to:

  • demonstrate the impact of their professional development on their own practice, learners and organisation
  • reflect critically on their teaching and professional learning
  • engage with educational research and evidence-informed practice
  • identify areas for development and implement strategies to enhance their effectiveness as a teacher or trainer
  • evidence their commitment to the Professional Standards and ongoing professional growth.

 

What is involved with QTLS?

The professional formation process includes:

  • completing self-assessment and reflective activities aligned to the Professional Standards
  • teaching a minimum of 230 hours during the six-month professional formation period with eligible post-14 learners (see eligibility criteria)
  • your supporter conducting observations of your teaching practice
  • completing professional discussions with your supporter at key stages of the programme
  • maintaining a Professional Development Plan (PDP) and evidencing progress against your goals
  • undertaking and recording continuing professional development (CPD) activities linked to your identified development needs
  • engaging with educational research and reflecting on its impact on your practice
  • submitting a final action plan outlining how you will continue to develop your practice beyond professional formation.

Successful completion of professional formation demonstrates that you are an effective, reflective practitioner who is committed to improving outcomes for learners through sustained professional development and high-quality teaching and training practice.

 

Working with your supporter

As part of the professional formation, you will nominate a supporter who is familiar with your teaching or training practice.

Your supporter will play an important role throughout the process by:

  • conducting observations of your teaching practice
  • taking part in professional discussions with you at key stages of your programme
  • providing feedback and support as you reflect on and develop your practice
  • confirming your engagement in the professional formation process

For more information, read our guidance for supporters.