Chris Ives on iPGCE vs iPGCE iQTS

Chris Ives: Head of International Teacher Training

Chris is course lead for both our international teacher training routes. In 2024-25 over 150 new teachers graduated from our iPGCE and iPGCE with iQTS programmes. Here he explains the difference between the options for those considering training outside England.

Understanding the difference: iPGCE vs iPGCE with iQTS

If you’re exploring routes into international teaching, you’ve probably come across two similar but distinct qualifications: the International Postgraduate Certificate in Education (iPGCE) and the International Postgraduate Certificate in Education with International Qualified Teacher Status (iPGCE with iQTS). At first glance, they look almost identical. Both can be completed in 12 months, the difference lies in recognition, scope, and the doors they open for your career.

At the National Institute of Teaching and Education (NITE), we offer these international postgraduate teacher training courses, through our established model that combines school-
based practice with high-quality academic study. Both are only available to those based outside England.

What is iQTS?

The International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) a teaching qualification awarded by universities accredited by England’s Department for Education. It’s fully equivalent to QTS (Qualified Teacher Status), which is the official certification required to teach in most schools across England. Beyond the UK, iQTS is increasingly recognised by international schools and education authorities around the world. Once you successfully complete the programme, the DfE will automatically award QTS—giving you the option to teach in state-maintained schools in England as well as a wide range of international settings.

The International PGCE (iPGCE)

The iPGCE provides a Postgraduate Certificate in Education for teachers training in schools outside England.

• Award: Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).
• Recognition: Widely respected internationally by schools and ministries of education.
• Status in England: Does not confer Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• Placement: One school placement in an international school.
• Structure: Online study + in-school training (minimum 12 hours per week teaching).
• Who it’s for: Teachers who want a postgraduate teaching qualification recognised worldwide, but who do not specifically require QTS in England.

The iPGCE with International Qualified Teacher Status (iPGCE with iQTS)

The iPGCE with iQTS includes all the elements of the iPGCE but goes a step further by also awarding International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS).

• Award: PGCE and International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS).
• Recognition: Equivalent to England’s QTS, awarded by the Department for Education (DfE). Increasingly recognised by schools and ministries globally. Status in England: Automatically confers QTS, allowing holders to teach in state-maintained schools in England if they wish.
• Placement: As with the iPGCE, trainees are school-based and teach a minimum of 12 hours per week, supported by a school mentor. Second shorter placement in a school offering some contrast to your main school is required for iQTS.
• Structure: Online modules + in-school training + additional assessments required by the DfE.
• Face to face assessment visits: You will be visited by a University Assessor at least three times during the course. With NITE, the costs of these visits are included in the listed course fee.
• Who it’s for: Teachers who want a globally recognised postgraduate qualification and the flexibility of holding QTS in England.

Key differences at a glance

Why choose NITE for International Teacher Training?

• Flexible full-time and part-time study routes.
• Three start dates a year: January, April, September
• Courses fully delivered online, with no travel to England required.
• Strong focus on school-based practice with professional mentoring.
• Direct support from University Lead Mentors and access to Coventry University resources.

Which one should you choose?

The right choice depends on your career goals. If you are uncertain whether iQTS is recognised in your country, we recommend you contact the relevant educational authority or ministry to find this out.

Once you have, you should:

• Choose iPGCE if… you plan to stay in international schools, your country does not require iQTS, or you want to strengthen your practice, and don’t need formal teacher status in England.
• Choose iPGCE with iQTS if… you want maximum flexibility for the future—whether that’s teaching in England, moving between international systems, or keeping doors open for career progression into leadership roles.

Final thoughts
If you are based outside England, both pathways provide excellent preparation for international teaching careers. The iPGCE enhances your skills and reputation in global schools, while the iPGCE with iQTS gives you the added advantage of an internationally recognised professional teaching award.

In short:

• iPGCE = academic + professional development
• iPGCE with iQTS = academic + professional development + teaching award