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FAQs Assessment Only
A QTS Process for Experienced Educators
At Equalitas, we offer a rigorous, evidence-based route to QTS for those who are already teaching. The Assessment Only (AO) route is designed for unqualified teachers who are ready to demonstrate that they meet the Teachers’ Standards, without undertaking a full Initial Teacher Training programme.
Below, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the process, costs and eligibility.
Eligibility
Who is the Assessment Only route for?
The AO route is for unqualified teachers who:
- Have a UK bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Have GCSE Grade 4 / C (or equivalent) in English and Maths (and Science, for Primary candidates)
- Are currently working as a teacher in a school in England
- Have at least two years of whole-class teaching experience
- Can demonstrate they already meet all the Teachers’ Standards
- Have the support of their current school
Do I have to have taught in two schools?
Yes. You must have experience in teaching students of different abilities and different backgrounds prior to gaining QTS. If you are employed in a specialist setting, you must have worked in a mainstream setting for a minimum of half a term.
Can teaching experience in other countries count toward eligibility?
Yes, international experience can count if it meets the requirements for breadth and depth, and you are now employed in a UK school or setting. You’ll need to provide strong evidence of whole-class responsibility.
Can I apply if I work in Further Education (FE)?
Yes, provided your teaching experience includes delivering recognised programmes and full class responsibility. Your current role must also include teaching school-age pupils for part of the week.
Process & Assessment
Is the Assessment Only route a training programme?
No. This is an assessment and validation process, not a training route. You’ll need to show you already meet the Teachers’ Standards at QTS level at the Initial Visit.
What does the process involve?
The process includes:
- An Initial Visit from an Equalitas tutor
- Access to Moodle to build your assessment portfolio
- Regular support from your AO tutor to assist with portfolio creation
- A Final QTS assessment visit
- Full evidence collation and reporting
Will I have a tutor or mentor throughout the process?
Yes. You’ll work with a dedicated Equalitas tutor who supports you through each stage of the process and ensures you’re prepared for the formal assessment visit. You will also need access to an in-school mentor for the duration of the Assessment Period.
How long does the Assessment Only route take?
Once accepted onto the programme, the process usually takes up to 12 weeks, though timing may vary depending on the strength and completeness of your evidence portfolio.
Cost & Payment
How much does the Assessment Only route cost?
The total cost is £3,000 (excluding VAT). This includes:
- £1,000 (+VAT) – Preparation & Initial Visit
- £2,000 (+VAT) – Final Assessment & Reporting
If an additional review visit is needed, this is charged at £500 + VAT
There is also a £250 administrative fee if you withdraw after accessing Equalitas materials.
Who is responsible for paying the AO course fees?
When you are accepted onto the Assessment Only route, your school enters into a partnership agreement with Equalitas. The fees are payable by the school.
QTS & Outcomes
What qualification will I receive?
Successful candidates are recommended to the DfE for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This is the professional status required to teach in most state-maintained schools in England.
Can I teach in a state school with QTS from the AO route?
Yes. QTS from the AO route is fully recognised in England for employment in state-maintained schools.
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Next Steps
If you’re ready to formalise your teaching experience and achieve QTS, we’re here to help.