How to Become a Qualified Teacher in the UK in 2025

Teaching remains one of the most impactful and rewarding careers, providing the chance to shape lives and inspire future generations. In 2025, there are a variety of routes into teaching tailored to suit different sectors, such as state schools, sixth forms, further education, independent schools, special schools, and even international schools. Understanding these pathways will help aspiring teachers make informed decisions about their professional journey.

Teaching in State Schools: QTS Pathways

QTS demonstrates that you meet the professional standards required to teach in the public sector.

Routes to QTS in 2025

Undergraduate RouteFor those without a degree, a Bachelor of Education (BEd) or a subject-specific degree with QTS is a direct route into teaching. These programs combine academic study with practical placements and typically take three to four years.
Postgraduate Route: PGCE with QTSGraduates can pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), a one-year program that includes placements in schools and equips teachers to work in primary, secondary, or special education settings.
School-Centered Initial Teacher Training (SCITT)SCITT programs, delivered by groups of schools, emphasize on-the-job training and practical experience, leading to QTS and often a PGCE.
Teach FirstA two-year, school-based program for high-achieving graduates, Teach First offers QTS and leadership development, focusing on schools in disadvantaged areas.
Postgraduate Teaching ApprenticeshipA salaried, work-based route combining training and employment. Apprentices gain practical teaching experience while earning QTS.

Teaching Learners Aged 14+ with QTLS

For those looking to teach learners aged 14+ in further education (FE), sixth forms, and other post-14 settings, the qualification route has evolved. Aspiring teachers in this sector can pursue the Diploma in Teaching (DIT), a qualification that replaces the Diploma in Education and Training (DET).

Diploma in Teaching (DIT)

The DIT qualification is designed for teaching in a range of contexts, including FE colleges, sixth forms, independent schools, special schools, and international schools. The program provides the pedagogical knowledge and skills required to work with diverse learners aged 14 and over.

Completing the DIT leads to Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS), which is a professional status awarded by the Society for Education and Training. QTLS is equivalent in status to QTS, meaning it has parity in state schools. This makes QTLS an excellent option for individuals who want to work across different sectors while maintaining the flexibility to teach in state schools.

Teacher Training UK and the DIT Programme

Teacher Training UK delivers the DIT program, supporting individuals who teach in diverse settings, including:

Sixth forms and FE colleges
Independent and private schools
Special schools
International schools

The program equips trainees with skills for effective classroom practice, curriculum design, and assessment, preparing them for a range of teaching roles. Many DIT graduates move into roles that lead to QTLS, providing opportunities to work with learners across different sectors and settings.

Teaching in Independent and Private Schools

Independent and private schools in the UK have more flexibility when hiring teachers and are not legally required to hire those with QTS or QTLS. However, possessing a formal teaching qualification, such as a PGCE, QTS, or QTLS, is highly valued and often required by prestigious schools.

Routes for Independent Schools

PGCE with QTS or QTLS: These qualifications are highly regarded in independent schools and improve employability.
Direct Employment: Some schools hire subject specialists without formal teaching qualifications, provided they have strong academic backgrounds or relevant experience.
DIT to QTLS Pathway: The DIT qualification can also lead to teaching in independent schools, particularly for sixth-form or post-14 learners.

Advice for teaching in Independent Schools: Highlight your subject expertise, leadership abilities, and contributions to extracurricular activities, as independent schools often value well-rounded educators.

Teaching in Special Schools

Special schools require teachers with a passion for supporting students with diverse needs, such as autism, physical disabilities, or learning difficulties. Teachers in this sector often require specialised training.

Routes for Special Schools

PGCE with QTS or QTLS: These qualifications are commonly required.
Special Educational Needs (SEN) Training: Many teacher training programs, including the DIT, include modules on working with learners with special educational needs.
Experience as a Teaching Assistant: Many aspiring special school teachers start as teaching assistants before transitioning to teaching roles.

Advice for teaching in Special Schools: Pursue additional SEN qualifications, such as the National Award for SEN Coordination, and seek out CPD opportunities in areas like assistive technology or behaviour management.

Teaching in International Schools

International schools are increasingly popular destinations for UK-trained teachers. Many follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge International Curriculum, requiring teachers with recognised UK qualifications.

Qualifications for International Schools

QTS or QTLS: Both qualifications are valued by international schools.
PGCE (International): Some universities offer PGCE programs tailored to teaching overseas.
TEFL Certification: For English teaching roles, a TEFL qualification is often sufficient.

Advice for teaching in International Schools:

Gain experience teaching the curriculum offered by your target school, such as the IB or Cambridge curriculum.
Learn about visa and relocation requirements for your desired country.

Key Takeaways

QTS or QTLS: For teaching in state schools, QTS is essential, while QTLS offers equivalent status and flexibility for teaching in FE, sixth forms, and beyond.
DIT Programme: Delivered by Teacher Training UK, the DIT provides a pathway to QTLS, making it an excellent choice for those teaching learners aged 14+ across different settings.
Sector-Specific Preparation: Whether you aim to teach in independent schools, special schools, or international schools, tailoring your qualifications and experience to the specific sector is crucial.
CPD and Specialisation: Continuous professional development and additional qualifications, such as SEN training or IB certifications, can enhance your teaching career.

Teaching is more than just a career, it’s a vocation that requires dedication, adaptability, and a genuine passion for making a difference. With the variety of routes available in 2025, there is a path for everyone to become a successful teacher in the UK or beyond.