Sheffield Hallam University has been appointed by the Department for Education (DfE) as one of only six providers for a new International Qualified Teacher (iQTS) pilot

iQTS is a new, UK government-backed international teaching qualification, recognised by the DfE as equivalent to English qualified teacher status (QTS).

The government launched a public consultation in February 2021, which introduced proposals for a new international teaching qualification. iQTS was subsequently announced as part of the International Education Strategy 2021 Update. 

iQTS will aim to make high-quality teacher training accessible around the world, allowing trainees to benefit from evidence-based initial teacher training (ITT) and supporting schools to develop local talent. 

Following an applications and approvals process, 6 pilot providers across the UK have been appointed to deliver iQTS from September 2022, including Sheffield Hallam.  

The pilot will be led by the University’s Sheffield Institute of Education (SIoE), a national centre of education, recognised for its excellence and innovation in teaching and learning. 

Professor David Owen, head of department in SIoE, said: “This is an excellent opportunity to share our approach to research informed initial teacher education with partners working at an international scale.  

“Sheffield Institute of Education teaching and research experts have a track record in international knowledge exchange, research and continuing professional development.  Extending the reach of our initial teacher training and preparation to an international audience is a very satisfying development.” 

The course will be delivered through a combination of face-to-face mentoring and remote working technology. Training will consist of a year of study, alongside teaching practice in schools. 

iQTS is designed to support those living outside of the UK who wish to start teacher training or develop their knowledge and understanding of teaching, as well as new and existing teachers without QTS who wish to improve their employability in England and internationally.