Assessment Only (AO) route to qualified teacher status - QTS - QTS
Holloway Campus, United Kingdom
Assessment Only (AO) Route to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
London Metropolitan University
Education / Teacher Training
Program Overview: Assessment Only Route to QTS
London Metropolitan University's Assessment Only (AO) route to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) provides a unique opportunity for experienced, unqualified teachers to gain formal QTS accreditation. This 12-week programme is designed specifically for those already working in a school or children's centre who can demonstrate they meet the Teachers' Standards without additional training.
As an assessment-only route, this programme does not include any training component. Instead, you will be assessed against the Teachers' Standards (2012) through a rigorous two-phase process comprising a pre-assessment audit and a formal assessment phase, culminating in a portfolio of evidence and mentor evaluations.
Upon successful completion, London Metropolitan University will recommend you to the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) for the award of Qualified Teacher Status. This accreditation opens doors to enhanced career prospects, increased earnings, and greater responsibilities within the teaching profession across England.
- Gain official QTS accreditation in just 12 weeks through a focused assessment process
- Dedicated support from experienced university tutors who are practising classroom professionals
- Flexible assessment schedule with September and January start dates available
- No need to leave your current teaching role — assessment takes place in your school or centre
Assessment Structure & Phases
As an assessment-only route to QTS, this programme does not contain traditional taught modules. Instead, it is structured around two key assessment phases designed to evaluate your teaching competence against the Teachers' Standards (2012). You will build evidence through reflective practice, lesson observations, and portfolio development.
Pre-Assessment Audit
Phase 1Prepare a comprehensive audit of your teaching experience mapped against the Teachers' Standards (2012). This self-evaluation identifies your strengths and areas for development before the formal assessment begins.
Initial Assessment Meeting
Phase 1Attend a tutorial with your university tutor to fully evaluate your experience and determine readiness for the formal assessment phase. You will only proceed if the tutor confirms you can achieve QTS within the timeframe.
Formal Assessment Phase
Phase 2A 12-week structured assessment block involving lesson observations, mentor visits, and ongoing evidence collection. Your university tutor will conduct assessment visits to your school during this period.
Portfolio of Evidence
Phase 2Build and present a comprehensive portfolio on the university's online system, including reflections on your practice, a case study, and evidence demonstrating consistent achievement of the Teachers' Standards across two key stages.
Mentor-Supported Practice
Phase 2Receive in-school support from a designated mentor — a more experienced member of staff — who provides guidance throughout the assessment period and completes a final assessment of your practice.
Final Assessment & QTS Recommendation
Phase 2Present your completed portfolio and final evidence to university tutors for evaluation. If successful, you will be recommended to the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) for the formal award of Qualified Teacher Status.
Specialisation Pathways
Admission Requirements
The Assessment Only route to QTS is designed for experienced practitioners who are already teaching but do not yet hold Qualified Teacher Status. As this programme is assessment-only with no training component, candidates must already demonstrate strong competence across the Teachers' Standards. All applications and enquiries should be directed through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Degree RequirementA degree classified at 2:2 or above from a recognised institution. For secondary subjects, the degree should normally be relevant to the subject you are teaching; for primary applicants, any subject is accepted.
- Teaching ExperienceAt least two years of whole-classroom teaching experience across the age range for your phase, with experience in at least two different schools.
- Current EmploymentMust be currently employed in a school or children's centre that is willing to support the assessment process.
- GCSE RequirementsGCSE Maths and English at grade 4/C or above for secondary; GCSE Maths, English, and Science at grade 4/C or above for primary and early years. Equivalents assessed on a case-by-case basis.
- Literacy and Numeracy TestsCandidates must pass university-based literacy and numeracy tests, which are undertaken at interview.
English Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum overall score of 6.0 with no sub-score below 5.5 (or equivalent)
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 72 or equivalent
- Pre-sessional EnglishA Pre-sessional Academic English course is available for those who wish to improve their English proficiency before starting
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
London Metropolitan University offers a range of financial support options for students. While the Assessment Only route has specific fee structures, there are funding opportunities that may help offset costs. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on scholarships and funding options available to you.
International Bright Futures Scholarship
Available to eligible international fee-paying students at London Met, this scholarship provides a tuition fee reduction and is automatically considered upon successful application.
London Met Sanctuary Scholarship
A full-ride scholarship designed for eligible students, covering tuition fees and providing additional living expense support for those who qualify under the sanctuary scheme.
Employer-Funded Assessment
Varies by employerMany schools and children's centres are willing to fund the assessment fee for their staff members pursuing QTS. Discuss employer sponsorship options with Uni4Edu before applying.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects After Gaining QTS
Achieving Qualified Teacher Status through London Metropolitan University's Assessment Only route significantly enhances your career trajectory in education. QTS is the professional accreditation required to teach in maintained schools in England, and holding it opens doors to higher pay scales, leadership positions, and broader employment opportunities across the education sector.
Career Pathways with QTS
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
London Metropolitan University is a recognised public university in London with a strong commitment to inclusive education and teaching quality. The university has built successful partnerships with high-quality London schools and is registered as an Initial Teacher Education provider inspected by Ofsted. Its teacher training programmes benefit from experienced practitioners and a diverse, supportive learning community.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Teaching Quality | The Times Good University Guide | #9 out of 129 UK universities |
| Social Inclusion | The Times Good University Guide | Top 50% |
| Student Experience | The Times Good University Guide | #10 out of 129 UK universities |
| Education (Initial Teacher Training) | Ofsted | Inspected ITE Provider — Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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