Teaching qualifications vary internationally, but most fall into three main categories:
Teacher training qualifications worldwide share similar structures, combining theory, subject pedagogy, curriculum planning, assessment methods and classroom practice. Courses such as the PGCE, B.Ed or state certifications include study in child development, inclusive education and classroom management, alongside supervised teaching placements.
Entry requirements vary but usually include secondary completion for undergraduate routes or a degree for postgraduate options, plus literacy, numeracy and language proficiency. Applicants must also show motivation and suitability through interviews and references.
Assessment is based on practical competence through written work, reflections, projects and observed teaching rather than final exams. Programmes range from a few months to four years, leading to an academic award and often a recognised teaching licence.
Gain UK Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through recognition of your existing teaching experience.
This qualification is suitable for teachers who have 2+ years of full-time whole-class teaching experience (or part-time equivalent) in at least two schools or educational settings. You must already be teaching in a school where your assessment can take place. There is no formally taught element, but typically, at the end of the 12 weeks, you need to demonstrate competency in all areas of the Teachers’ Standards for England.
The Assessment Only route to QTS is designed for experienced teachers who are already demonstrating strong classroom practice. It provides a pathway to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) without completing a full teacher-training programme.
Teacher Pathways works with multiple UK universities approved by the DfE to deliver iQTS.
Gain an internationally recognised teaching qualification without relocating.
This qualification is suitable for experienced or novice teachers who want to obtain a formal university-level teaching qualification.
Teacher Pathways partners with accredited UK providers to support international and locally based teachers through the iPGCE process.
Gain Qualified Teacher Status for England in Any Country, Any Curriculum and Any School.
The International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) is a UK government-approved teaching qualification that leads to registration with the Department for Education (DfE), enabling you to gain lifetime recognition as a qualified teacher in England. It is designed for teachers working outside the UK who wish to gain a qualification equivalent to QTS without relocating to England.
This route allows you to train and qualify entirely from your current school, combining international classroom experience with UK teaching standards.
You’ll develop and be assessed against the English Teachers’ Standards through expert mentor support, university-based modules, and professional practice within your school.
Teacher Pathways works with multiple UK universities approved by the DfE to deliver iQTS.
Earn a UK Master’s-Level Qualification and QTS.
The PGCE with iQTS combines two prestigious pathways - the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and the iQTS - offering both an academic qualification and professional recognition as a qualified teacher in England.
This route is ideal for teachers working internationally who want a UK-accredited teaching qualification with DfE registration for life and the academic rigour of a Level 7 postgraduate award. Delivered entirely online or through blended learning, the course allows you to continue teaching in your current school while gaining expert guidance from UK university tutors and mentors.
Teacher Pathways partners with multiple UK universities approved by the DfE to deliver this combined route.
Earn a UK Master’s-Level Qualification with Global Recognition
The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is one of the most respected teacher training qualifications in the world. It offers a rigorous academic foundation in pedagogy, curriculum, and assessment - recognised by schools globally as evidence of high professional standards and reflective practice.
Teachers can choose between a PGCE with QTS, which leads to Qualified Teacher Status in England, or a PGCE without QTS, ideal for international educators seeking postgraduate-level professional development without UK classroom placement requirements.
Delivered online or through blended learning, this route allows you to continue working while benefiting from expert mentorship and university support.
Teacher Pathways partners with leading universities to provide diverse PGCE routes, ensuring you receive a qualification that meets your career goals and professional aspirations.
Gain Official Licensure to Teach in US Schools
The US State Teaching Certificate is an officially recognised teaching licence issued by individual state education departments. It qualifies you to teach in public schools across that state and, in many cases, offers reciprocity with others. This route is designed for aspiring or practising teachers who wish to gain full professional status within the US education system.
You’ll complete a state-approved teacher preparation programme combining university coursework with supervised classroom practice. Training covers pedagogy, subject knowledge, assessment, and inclusive teaching, and you’ll demonstrate competence through observed teaching, portfolios, and state licensing exams.
Teacher Pathways partners with accredited US universities and licensure programmes.
Advance Your Expertise and Leadership in Teaching and Learning
The Master of Education is an internationally recognised postgraduate qualification designed for teachers and education professionals seeking to deepen their pedagogical knowledge, enhance leadership skills, or progress into specialist or management roles. This route is ideal for qualified or experienced educators who wish to strengthen their practice and influence educational improvement within schools, systems, or organisations.
You’ll complete university-led modules exploring advanced topics such as curriculum design, educational research, leadership, policy, and inclusive practice. Programmes emphasise critical reflection and evidence-informed approaches, enabling you to apply theory directly to your professional context. Assessment is through research projects, written assignments, and practical applications rather than final exams.
Teacher Pathways partners with accredited international universities.
