My QTLS experience: Kyle Kirkpatrick
What motivated you to undertake Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status?
Having completed my PGCE (post-compulsory) in 2015 and having worked in the further education sector since, I saw QTLS as an opportunity to investigate, invigorate and challenge my teaching practice. QTLS afforded me the time, structure and focus to do this with the support of a mentor, colleagues and my learners.
How did you find the process and what did you like about it?
I thoroughly enjoyed the professional formation process; it allowed me to consider and challenge my own pedagogy and how my practice can and does have an impact on my learners, colleagues, and organisation. The self-directed formation process allowed me to identify areas for investigation in response to the Education and Training Foundation’s Professional Standards, as well as my own personal interests, namely: 3D scanning and printing; verbal feedback processes; and creative starters to inspire and challenge learners.
What has undertaking QTLS taught you about yourself?
QTLS has reminded me how much I love the sector that I work in, as well as tmy passion for my subject: Art and Design. It reminded me of the impact that I can and do have on learners through my teaching: the power to inspire them to be the best they can be and provide them with opportunities that they may not have had access to before.
What impact has QTLS had on your organisation?
I initially underestimated the impact that my QTLS journey would have on my colleagues, thinking that it would only enhance my own pedagogy. However, through the formation process and upon completion, I have shared strategies that have had a positive impact on my colleagues’ practices across my whole department.
What are you going to do next and how will you continue to develop your practice?
I plan to continue to explore and develop the findings that came out of my formation process by applying for the Advanced Teacher Status (ATS) programme. Alongside this, I am sharing the positive impact that QTLS has had on my practice with my colleagues and wider organisation.
What advice would you give teachers/trainers who are thinking of undertaking QTLS?
The key pieces of advice that I would give to anyone thinking of undertaking QTLS are:
- Involve learners in your research, as, ultimately, many, if not all, of the strategies that you explore and implement will have a positive impact on learners. Ask for their thoughts, ideas, opinions and feedback.
- Although you will have a dedicated mentor, share your portfolio, research and findings with colleagues to receive feedback, advice and ideas.
- Most importantly, try to dedicate time every week to undertake your identified CPD activities and try to keep up to date with your digital portfolio as you move through the professional formation process.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself
During the QTLS formation process, I purchased my first house and passed my driving test first time.