It's time to gain the recognition you've earned with a powerful step forward in your career.
Whether you're starting out or looking to develop your current role, Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status can help you demonstrate your professionalism, enhance your practice and gain sector-wide recognition.
Applications for the January 2027 cohort have now closed. For all existing applicants you have until 17 November 2026 to complete and submit your application for review.
If you're interested in achieving QTLS, you can register your interest below or check this page for future application dates and updates.
You'll need to hold the appropriate ETF membership grade of Member or Fellow before applying for QTLS.
If you're an Associate, Affiliate, or Student, log in to your account and upgrade your membership.
If you're not yet an ETF member, join as a Member or Fellow.
Step 3: Complete the suitability tool
The suitability tool helps determine whether you're suitable to apply for QTLS.
Please note: you must meet the eligibility requirements to be considered suitable to apply for QTLS.
Step 4: Submit your application
If the suitability tool confirms you're eligible to proceed, you'll be invited to submit a QTLS application during an open application window.
Step 5: Receive your application outcome
Applications are reviewed by ETF and successful applicants are invited to join the next available cohort and pay the remaining programme fee.
Step 6: Start your professional formation journey
Once enrolled, you'll gain access to the online portfolio and guidance material needed for your QTLS professional formation journey.
Find out what's involved
Whether you're preparing to apply or supporting someone through the process, our guidance explains what to expect.
Professional formation: Guidance for participants
Learn about the six-month professional formation process, portfolio requirements, observations, CPD and professional discussions.
Professional formation: Guidance for supporters
Understand the role of a supporter, including observations, professional discussions and how to support a participant successfully.
'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
99% of QTLS holders said it positively impacted their teaching practice, their learners and their wider organisation
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
Support throughout your journey
QTLS is a structured and supported professional formation process. You'll focus on your own practice but you won't be doing it alone.
We provide clear online guidance and resources to support you at every stage through our website and online Knowledge Base.
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 have questions, or need any technical support, our Customer Experience team can help.
'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 help organisations strengthen teaching quality, support workforce development and achieve their professional development goals.
As part of your partnership, you can support colleagues to undertake QTLS, helping them develop their practice, gain professional recognition and contribute to organisational improvement.
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.
