Assessment-only route for Qualified Teacher Status

From September 2011, the University has a limited number of places for an Assessment-Only Route leading to Qualified Teacher Status.

As this is not a training programme, the places are for experienced but unqualified teachers, and are not intended as an alternative for those people unable to find places on an initial teacher training course. The assessment will be tailored for each individual and could be completed in a term.

The Route can begin at any point in the year as long as a good quality teaching and assessment experience can be guaranteed.
AO applicants will be expected to be working in a school on entry to the programme and will have the support of the school in the assessment process. The University will act as a guide and final assessor and will provide quality assurance for the route.

Entry requirements for this route

Applicants must:

  • have a GCSE in Maths and English (and Science for Primary applicants) at grade C or above and a first degree, usually at grade 2.2 or above. Equivalent qualifications will need NARIC certification
  • have significant teaching experience of whole groups (typically between 1 and 2 years of continuous teaching in UK schools/colleges; preferably in two different institutions)
  • have a reference recommending them for the AO route from the Head Teacher/Principal of their current school /college whether serving as an employee or volunteer
  • have an up to date enhanced CRB form and approval as ‘fit to teach’ from their adopted school
  • be able to evidence their current progress against the QTS Standards. This will be required in the form of a portfolio (commentary plus supporting evidence) at interview.

The application process

Applicants must:

  • complete a University of Worcester application form (available from assessmentonly@worc.ac.uk)
  • have an interview conducted by UW ITE staff prior to being accepted
  • make available a Portfolio of evidence at interview to show their current progress against the QTS standards (QTS descriptor and guidance available from www.tda.gov.uk)

Successful applicants will:

  • complete an assessment action plan with mentors from the school and approved by UW tutors
  • be observed and mentored regularly by school staff and have at least one observation by UW tutors as part of the final assessment for QTS.

Once the AO route has been completed successfully the person will become an NQT and will be required to have a an induction period of one year if the person is full time

Candidates will be charged £900 for this Assessment-only Route.

For further information, please contact: assessmentonly@worc.ac.uk