Advanced Teacher Status (ATS) is designed for experienced teachers like you to strengthen your leadership, sharpen your practice, and gain Chartered Teacher Status.
This is a recognised milestone on the path to leadership. By attaining ATS you will:
deepen your influence
grow your confidence
work towards Chartered Teacher Status.
The next ATS application window opens on 22 June 2026.
'The main benefit of ATS is the stretch and challenge with your practice, and actually giving you time and space to revisit elements that you want to look into and see how you can further improve your practice.'
Lucy FSET ATS QTLS, Programme Leader at The Guernsey Institute
Chartered. Credible. Career-defining.
Why choose ATS?
With ATS, you can achieve these benefits already enjoyed by aspiring peers:
Gain formal recognition for your leadership in teaching, learning and impact
Build your expertise in mentoring, coaching and strategic development
Lead a research project that drives measurable change in your organisation
Stand out for senior and leadership roles
Showcase your status with a nationally respected accreditation
Earn Chartered Teacher Status
Check your eligibility
Before you apply, it's important to make sure ATS is right for you and understand the structure of the programme. Reviewing the criteria and planning ahead will help you make the most of the experience.
Am I eligible?
Make sure you meet the requirements.
ATS is designed for experienced teachers who are able to demonstrate advanced practice within the FE and skills sector.
Get support and guidance
Need help or not sure where to start?
Our team is here to support you with clear guidance on eligibility, applications and and preparing for ATS.
2026 application window
The next ATS application window opens on 22 June 2026.
ATS is a structured 14-month programme, starting each year in October. This extended format gives you time to reflect on and enhance your professional practice at an advanced level.
Our October 2026 cohort runs from Monday 12 October 2026 to Thursday 9 December 2027
October 2026 cohort
What to expect
Draw on a range of dedicated resources
Participate in a structured, progressive programme of development over 14 months
Be assessed on your individual development as well as your ability to work collaboratively
You'll spend an average of four hours per week on the programme
It costs £915 to participate in the programme and the fee can be paid in installments
'The ATS programme provides formal recognition of your status as an advanced teacher in the further education and skills sector.
With this respected status you will influence and enhance learner skills and employability within and across local communities. ATS holders have also told us how the programme has supported their career progression to more senior roles.'
Berta Miguez-Lorenzo, Standards and Status Manager, ETF
'I found the ATS process really helpful to encourage me to make regular time to reflect on my practice. My confidence has grown as a result of the ATS process.'
Louise Elsby FSET ATS QTLS, Law Lecturer and Work Force Development Specialist
'It gave me the opportunity to reflect on my practice and talk to a mentor to ask how they would go about doing something. The other thing I benefited from hugely was seeing other people's practice.'
Peter Saban FSET ATS QTLS, Hostage Negotiator Development Manager
ETF Partnership
ETF Partnership offers long-term, tailored collaboration to support your organisation's professional development goals.
You can enhance the skillset and confidence of your team by supporting them to undertake QTLS or ATS programmes as part of your ETF Partnership.
Please note that our Professional Status Register is currently offline for maintenance - click below to learn how to verify QTLS/ATS status and access alternative checks.
