My QTLS experience: Chris Cornwell

What motivated you to undertake Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS)? 

I have now been working in the education and training sector for 15 years; I achieved my Cert Ed back in 2012. I had been interested in completing Professional Formation leading to QTLS for a few years, so when the opportunity arose, I went for it. For the past year, I have been teaching the Level 3 Award in Education and Training, as well as regularly observing other trainers in their workplaces. I felt that completing QTLS would greatly benefit both myself and my learners.  

How did you find the process and what did you like about it? 

Overall, I found the process very rewarding. I liked that completing the initial self-assessment tool against the Professional Standards gave me the opportunity to critically reflect on my teaching practices. I found the online platform stress-free to navigate, uploading evidence was straightforward, and keeping track of my progress with the green ticks was intuitive. I also felt that I had all the support I needed from my mentor throughout the process. 

What has undertaking QTLS taught you about yourself? 

Undertaking Professional Formation has reminded me that learning is a non-linear process. The experience has given me the confidence to try new things in the classroom environment, stretching and challenging myself and my students along the way. For example, in the past, I have been hesitant to incorporate technology-enhanced teaching and learning methods (TEL) into my syllabus, mainly through fear of things going wrong. By completing CPD, through trial and error, and by having backup tasks in my lesson plans (because things can and will go wrong when it comes to IT), I have a newfound confidence and have discovered the benefits of using TEL. These benefits include quick access to methods of assessment for learners, less preparation time needed for activities prior to lessons, and much more. 

What impact has QTLS had on your practice and learners? 

I have received lots of positive feedback from my learners throughout this process. They have found my lessons to be engaging and interactive. I feel I have grown professionally and find myself thinking more about how to enhance my teaching practices for my learners. As educators, it is important to reflect on your practice, collaborate with others, continue to improve, and share best practice. 

What impact has QTLS had on your organisation? 

I feel as though I can make a positive impact within my organisation by putting what I have learnt during the QTLS process into practice through conducting observations, delivering CPD and teaching in the classroom. 

What are you going to do next and how will you continue to develop your practice? 

I will continue to develop my professional and pedagogical knowledge and skills by completing CPD. I will also continue to utilise my SET membership to assist my development. 

What advice would you give teachers/trainers who are thinking of undertaking QTLS? 

If you have the opportunity, go for it. You will have to dedicate your time to the process, but you will get out of it what you put in. Set some time aside and keep on top of it. If you give it your all, you will find the experience to be both beneficial and rewarding. 

Finally, please tell us a fun fact about yourself! 

My lung capacity is 130% and I can blow up a party balloon with a single puff! I have also run a marathon in under three and a half hours.