UK Teachers recruitment from overseas and what you need to know about QTS

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is essential for anyone looking to teach in most state-maintained schools in England. Here's a brief overview of what you need to know about the QTS recruitment process:

1. Eligibility Requirements:

   - To be eligible for QTS, you must hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) and have completed teacher training comparable to UK standards. Your training should include both pedagogical theory and practical teaching experience.

   - Overseas teachers need to demonstrate at least one year of teaching experience post-qualification and must be legally recognized as a teacher in their home country [[❞]](https://skillsforenglish.com/big-changes-to-how-overseas-teacher-qualifications-are-now-accepted-in-the-uk/).

2. Application Process:

   - Teachers can apply for QTS through the UK government’s Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA). There are different pathways, including an online service, assessment-only QTS, teacher training in England, or International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) [[❞]](https://skillsforenglish.com/big-changes-to-how-overseas-teacher-qualifications-are-now-accepted-in-the-uk/) [[❞]](https://www.pointtopointeducation.co.uk/blog/qualified-teacher-status-qts-in-england/).

   - If you're from countries like the USA, Canada, New Zealand, or Australia, you might qualify for QTS without additional training. However, teachers from other countries will need to provide proof of their qualifications and experience [[❞]](https://www.pointtopointeducation.co.uk/blog/qualified-teacher-status-qts-in-england/).

3. English Language Proficiency:

   - Proficiency in English is mandatory. You must either be a native English speaker, have studied in English at the undergraduate level, or achieve a certain score on a recognized English language test [[❞]](https://skillsforenglish.com/big-changes-to-how-overseas-teacher-qualifications-are-now-accepted-in-the-uk/).

4. Career Prospects:

   - Holding QTS is crucial for career advancement, as it allows you to access the official teacher pay scale and benefits like the Teachers’ Pension Scheme. Moreover, it opens up opportunities for leadership roles and participation in professional development programs [[❞]](https://www.pointtopointeducation.co.uk/blog/qualified-teacher-status-qts-in-england/).

Understanding these requirements and processes can help ensure that you are prepared to successfully navigate the QTS application and begin your teaching career in England.

In England, there are a significant number of teaching positions currently available across various roles and subjects. For example, over 38,000 teaching vacancies are listed across the country, with opportunities ranging from Early Career Teachers (ECTs) to more experienced roles such as department heads and special education coordinators. The availability spans across different school phases including primary, secondary, and special education.

Some of the most in-demand roles include teaching positions in core subjects like English, Maths, and Science. Additionally, there are a substantial number of positions for teaching assistants and support roles within schools. London, Birmingham, Manchester, and other major cities are hotspots for these vacancies.

You can explore and apply for these jobs through platforms like [Teaching Vacancies](https://teaching-vacancies.service.gov.uk) and [Tes Jobs](https://www.tes.com/jobs), which offer extensive listings for both full-time and part-time positions, catering to various levels of experience and specialties.

For a more detailed search or specific job opportunities, visiting these platforms directly would be beneficial.

Applying for a teaching position in England involves meeting several key requirements, which may vary slightly depending on the specific role and school. Here's a summary of the general requirements:

1. Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

   - Requirement: QTS is essential for teaching in most state-maintained schools in England.

   - How to Obtain: To get QTS, you must have a relevant degree and complete teacher training that meets UK standards, including practical teaching experience. Teachers trained overseas may apply for QTS via the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) if their qualifications are recognized.

2. Academic Qualifications

   - Degree: A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) is typically required. For secondary school positions, your degree should ideally be in the subject you wish to teach.

   - GCSEs: At least a Grade 4 (previously C) in GCSE Maths and English (and Science if teaching primary) is often required.

 3. Teaching Experience

   - Professional Experience: Schools often prefer candidates with previous teaching experience. For newly qualified teachers, having completed a teacher training program that includes classroom experience is crucial.

   - References: Providing strong references, ideally from previous teaching roles or placements, is important.

 4. Enhanced DBS Check

   - **Requirement: All teachers must undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to ensure they are suitable to work with children.

5. English Language Proficiency

   - Requirement: Fluency in English is mandatory. If English is not your first language, you may need to prove proficiency through an English language test, such as IELTS.

6. Additional Requirements for Overseas Applicants

   - Work Visa: Non-UK citizens may need to secure a visa, such as a Skilled Worker visa, which requires a job offer from a licensed sponsor.

   - Recognition of Overseas Qualifications**: If your teaching qualification is from outside the UK, you may need to have it assessed to ensure it meets UK standards [[❞]](https://uk.jooble.org/jobs-teacher) [[❞]](https://www.tes.com/jobs/).

These are the foundational requirements, but it is important to check the specific details for each job application, as schools may have additional criteria. If you meet these criteria, you can apply through platforms like [Teaching Vacancies](https://teaching-vacancies.service.gov.uk) and [Tes Jobs](https://www.tes.com/jobs).