Already an Experienced Teacher? Get Qualified Without Additional Training

Suppose you’re currently working as a teacher and have significant classroom experience. In that case, the Assessment Only (AO) route allows you to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) without having to complete a full training programme.

This route is ideal for competent and confident teachers who can already demonstrate that they meet the Teachers’ Standards and are ready to be formally recognised for the work they’re doing.

Are You Eligible?

You’re likely to be a good fit for the Assessment Only route if:

• You have at least two years of full-time teaching experience (or equivalent part-time) across two or more UK schools.
• You’re currently employed in a UK school in a teaching role with full responsibility for planning, teaching, assessing and reporting on pupil progress.
• You have the full support of your school to take this route.
• For primary applicants, you’re teaching the full National Curriculum, including Maths, English (with phonics), Science, and a range of foundation subjects (e.g. Geography, History, Art).
• You can provide evidence of meeting the Teachers’ Standards across at least two consecutive age ranges.
• You don’t need further training to meet QTS requirements — you’re already doing the job.
• You hold:

• • • GCSEs (or equivalent) at Grade 4/C or above in English and Maths (plus Science for primary applicants)
    • A UK first degree (or equivalent) totalling 300 HE credits, with at least 60 at Level 6

Are you unsure if your qualifications or experience meet the requirements?

Register Your Interest by completing the form at the bottom of this page – we’re happy to advise.

Available Phases and Subjects

We offer Assessment Only QTS for:

Primary (age ranges 3–7 and 5–11)

Start Anytime

There’s no fixed start date. Once your application is approved and your eligibility is confirmed, your assessment period can begin. We’ll work with you and your school to plan a suitable timeline.

What to Expect During the Recruitment Process

Once you apply:

1.    We’ll conduct compliance checks to verify eligibility.

2.    You’ll receive interview guidance to help you prepare.

3.    We’ll observe you teaching within your chosen age range.

4.    You’ll take part in a reflective discussion about your:

• • • Teaching experience and progression
    • Approaches to learning and behaviour
    • Knowledge of school systems and classroom management
    • Experience working with pupils from different backgrounds and abilities

5.    In most cases, we’ll let you know on the same day if you’ve been successful.

Fees & Funding

Total cost: £2,800

(This is payable before your first assessment visit)

Additional travel costs may apply if your school is outside the local area of our assessors.

What Happens After You Gain QTS?

Once awarded QTS, you’ll begin your two-year Early Career Teacher (ECT) induction. In some cases, this can be fast-tracked with the agreement of your school and the appropriate body.

How to Apply

Ready to get started? Apply for Assessment-Only QTS by clicking the button below. If you have any questions, please use the ‘Register Your Interest‘ form below, and a member of our team will get back to you.