Experienced teachers can gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Early Years Teacher Status  (EYTS) through the Assessment Only route without additional training.

The route is available to experienced teachers working in public or private settings who do not already hold QTS or EYTS.

Achieving Qualified Teacher Status through the Assessment Only route was a very rewarding experience. I feel I have developed into a better practitioner and broadened my skill set thanks to the invaluable guidance I was given during the process. The process gave me the opportunity to improve all aspects of my teaching, be it lesson planning or organising after-school clubs. The Assessment Only route has made my transition into my newly qualified teacher year much more seamless and I look forward to this as the next step in my professional development.
Matthew Cassidy

Support

Assessment Only at the Institute of Education is supported by the full Initial Teacher Education (ITE) team, so you can be sure of high professional standards in the assessment of your teaching.

You can apply at any point in the year and a University tutor will guide you through the process.

As many schools are unfamiliar with Assessment Only we are very happy to talk to school leaders about the route and its process.

National standards

All applicants recommended for the Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) award become Early Career Teachers (ECTs). All schools should note the ECT requirements before agreeing to support candidates for the award of QTS.

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Explore the Assessment Only route

Discover more about teaching in a state school without additional training

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Frequently asked questions

Still have questions? View our frequently asked questions page.

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Apply now

Download the Assessment Only application form for 2026-27 (Word doc)

I believe the key to the whole process is reflection, organisation and a good mentor. With these three elements and the support of the University I believe that any experienced practitioner with a passion for teaching can achieve Qualified Teacher Status through the Assessment Only route.
Nisha Gill

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