How did you come to study with Tes Institute?
I chose to study with Tes Institute after hearing consistently positive feedback from friends and colleagues working in education. Their recommendations highlighted the high-quality support from mentors and how well-structured the programme is.
While the timeframe is quite fast-paced, I found the clear to-do lists and deadlines helped keep everything manageable and achievable. It felt like a well-organised and supportive route to gaining QTS.
Why did you choose to undertake this course? What did you want to achieve?
I originally held a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Care and Education, but I wanted to expand my qualifications and develop my skills further. Although my background was in early years, I was keen to broaden my experience across the wider primary age range.
Working in a British curriculum school in the UAE, I also saw this as an opportunity to deepen my understanding of the British education system and enhance my everyday practice. I wanted to feel more confident in my planning, assessment and delivery, and ensure I was offering children the best possible learning experiences.
How did you find the application process?
I found the application process really straightforward and well-supported. The Tes team were very helpful in guiding me through each stage and regularly reminded me of which documents were needed, which kept everything on track.
Since I didn’t complete my GCSEs in the UK, I had to apply for a Statement of Comparability—I'd definitely recommend starting that process early, as it can take a little time to be issued.
It’s also important to review the subjects you studied and check they align with QTS entry requirements. For example, I hadn’t studied science as part of my Leaving Certificate in Ireland, but Tes Institute offered a GCSE science equivalency test, which was a great solution.
What did you enjoy most about the course?
How everything I learned could be applied directly to my classroom. Engaging in regular reflective tasks encouraged me to pause and think deeply about my teaching. It felt so rewarding to implement new strategies and immediately see the positive impact on my students.
I also really appreciated the regular support from my mentor and colleagues, which helped me reflect on my practice with confidence. Engaging with research and frameworks like Development Matters and Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) guidance made me feel more informed and empowered in my teaching.
What support did you receive during the course and how did this help you to progress?
Throughout the course, I received consistent support from a range of people which made a big difference to my progress. My school mentor offered regular feedback and encouragement, helping me reflect honestly on my teaching and set clear goals. My Tes pathway tutor was always available to answer questions and offer guidance, especially around writing up my teaching standard reflections.
I also learned a lot from expert colleagues through observations and professional discussions. All of this support helped me grow in confidence and sharpen my teaching practice, especially in planning, assessment and adapting for different needs in the classroom.
What would you tell another person who is thinking of applying for this course?
I’d definitely encourage anyone thinking of applying for this course to go for it! It’s a really rewarding experience, both professionally and personally. My biggest piece of advice would be to stay organised and follow the submission dates and guidance from your pathway tutor, as it helps to keep everything manageable.
Also, be open to feedback and willing to reflect critically on your teaching. Some of the most valuable growth comes from those honest moments of reflection. It’s all about improving your practice to give your students the best possible learning experience, and that’s what makes the journey so worthwhile.
How would you sum up your experience with Tes Institute in a sentence?
My experience with Tes Institute has been supportive, challenging in all the right ways, and ultimately a hugely rewarding step forward in my teaching journey.
