My QTLS experience: Pui Ha Shum
What motivated you to undertake Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS)?
QTLS appealed to me because of its parity to QTS status. Additionally, the Society for Education and Training (SET) and the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) offer various seminars and workshops that I have found very useful for enhancing my teaching capabilities and industry knowledge.
How did you find the process and what did you like about it?
The QTLS process was relatively easy to follow because it provided ample information during the professional formation process. Furthermore, I received advice and guidance from the University of Greenwich, which helped me better plan and prepare for various activities and reports.
What has undertaking QTLS taught you about yourself?
I learned how to plan effectively and execute well. I also learned to remain calm and flexible when unexpected incidents occurred. QTLS provided me with opportunities to collaborate with both my employer and external professionals, allowing me to further deepen my insights in education.
What impact has QTLS had on your practice and learners?
QTLS provided an opportunity for me to consider both my employer's and my learners' perspectives. When planning lessons, I must adhere to the course syllabus and, at the same time, make adjustments to suit my learners' needs and abilities. QTLS serves as a reminder that I must maintain professionalism and consistently align with the SET code of ethics and conduct.
What impact has QTLS had on your organisation?
Having QTLS is an advantage, as it creates a positive impression on my resume. I also highly value the network connections established through QTLS, SET, and ETF.
What are you going to do next and how will you continue to develop your practice?
I am currently actively seeking a full-time teaching role in the further education field. I plan to initiate my teaching career by delivering functional skills English and maths in both classroom and online settings. Additionally, I will continue to pursue various short courses to further develop and enhance my teaching abilities and professional expertise. In the future, I aspire to pursue a PGCE if the opportunity arises.
What advice would you give teachers/trainers who are thinking of undertaking QTLS?
I would highly recommend that all teachers and trainers without QTS consider obtaining QTLS, if possible. QTLS offers a highly constructive and systematic approach to training and assessing individuals to become professional educators. However, you will need to proactively seek out valuable and meaningful resources, as there is an abundance available on the internet. My suggestion is to plan meticulously, including contingency plans for unexpected events, and then execute your plan without delay. The substantial rewards you will reap from overcoming these challenges and hard work will be well worth it.
Finally, please tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I am fluent in English, Japanese, Mandarin, and Cantonese. I have published a children's storybook in six languages, including English, Japanese, Chinese, French, Italian, and Turkish, in Hong Kong.
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QTLS is the badge of professionalism for post-14 education and training. It’s aimed at helping you advance your career and to demonstrate your expertise and experience to your colleagues, employers and learners.
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