ACHIEVE QTLS
RECOGNISED TEACHING STATUS
ADVANCE YOUR CAREER
QTLS is the gold standard for further education teachers. Our Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (FE and Skills) provides the essential pathway to achieve Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills Status and take the next step in your professional journey.
QUALIFIED TEACHER LEARNING AND SKILLS (QTLS)
Take the Next Step in Your Teaching Career
Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) is a nationally recognised professional status awarded to experienced teachers and trainers who can demonstrate their professional competence and commitment to ongoing development.
QTLS is awarded through Professional Formation and is recognised by the Department for Education. It has legal parity with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), meaning that teachers holding QTLS can teach in schools in England on the same terms and conditions as teachers holding QTS.
For many teachers working in Further Education, Skills, Adult Education, Apprenticeships, Independent Training Providers, and Specialist SEND settings, QTLS represents the next step in their professional journey.
WHY CHOOSE QTLS?
QTLS can open doors, support your career growth, and help you make a greater impact in the lives of your learners.
PROFESSIONAL STATUS THAT EMPLOYERS VALUE
Gain a recognised professional status that demonstrates your expertise, commitment, and professionalism as a teacher or trainer.
INCREASE YOUR EARNING POTENTIAL
Professional recognition can support career progression, leadership opportunities, and increased responsibility.
RECOGNITION ACROSS THE FE AND SKILLS SECTOR
QTLS is widely respected throughout Further Education, Skills, Adult Learning, Apprenticeships, and training organisations.
STRENGTHEN YOUR TEACHING PRACTICE
The Professional Formation process encourages reflection, professional growth, and continuous improvement.
BUILD TEACHING CONFIDENCE & CREDIBILITY
Demonstrate that your teaching practice meets nationally recognised professional standards.
IMPROVE OUTCOMES FOR YOUR STUDENTS
Effective teaching practice benefits learners through improved engagement, achievement, and progression.
WHAT IS QTLS?
QTLS (Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills) is awarded by the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) through the Society for Education and Training (SET).
QTLS recognises teachers and trainers who can demonstrate effective professional practice, ongoing development, and a positive impact on learner outcomes.
Achieving QTLS demonstrates that you have met the Professional Standards for Teachers and Trainers and are committed to maintaining high standards of teaching, learning, and assessment.
CHECK YOUR ELIGIBILITY
Before applying for QTLS, it is important to make sure you meet the requirements and understand whether the programme is right for you.
The Education and Training Foundation has provided simple ways to help you check your eligibility and feel confident before you apply.
WHAT DOES THE PROCESS INVOLVE?
Once you have become a member of the Society for Education and Training (SET) and have been accepted onto Professional Formation, the process typically takes approximately six months to complete.
During this period, you will build an online portfolio demonstrating your professional practice and impact as a teacher or trainer.
The Process Typically Includes:
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Reflecting on your teaching practice
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Demonstrating how you meet the Professional Standards
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Providing evidence of learner progress and achievement
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Recording Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
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Gathering feedback from learners, colleagues, and managers
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Working with a professional supporter who can verify your practice
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Completing a professional development plan
Throughout the programme, you will have access to guidance and resources from SET to support you in successfully completing your portfolio.
Upon successful completion, you will be awarded Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
As a guide, applicants are typically required to:
Be a current member of the Society for Education and Training (SET)
Be employed in a salaried teaching or training role
Be teaching learners aged 14+
Be engaged in regular teaching practice during the Professional Formation period
Hold an approved Further Education teaching qualification at Level 5 or above
Hold a recognised Level 2 English qualification
Hold a recognised Level 2 Mathematics qualification
Hold an appropriate subject-specific qualification
Have access to a suitable professional supporter
Additional requirements may apply depending on your teaching setting and circumstances.
DISCLAIMER
Eligibility requirements, fees, and Professional Formation processes are subject to change.
Applicants should always refer to the latest guidance published by the Education and Training Foundation and the Society for Education and Training before applying.
READY TO PROGRESS YOUR TEACHING CAREER?
QTLS is more than a professional status. It is recognition of your expertise, commitment, and impact as a teacher.
Whether you work in Further Education, Skills, Adult Learning, Apprenticeships, Independent Training, or Specialist SEND provision, QTLS can help you demonstrate your professionalism, strengthen your practice, and unlock new career opportunities.
Take the next step in your professional journey and gain the recognition your expertise deserves.