Better Business / Member news
UWE Bristol’s international teaching qualification course rated outstanding
UWE Bristol has received the highest possible rating for its international teacher training programme following a government inspection.
The university was awarded a Grade 1 for its International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) qualification, after an assessment commissioned by the Department for Education.
At the time of the inspection in February, 102 trainees were enrolled on the online programme, working in schools overseas while studying towards qualified teacher status (QTS), which enables them to teach both in England and internationally.
Inspectors from the Independent Schools Inspectorate found the programme not only met all required standards but exceeded them in most areas, highlighting strengths in leadership, course design and trainee support.
UWE Bristol was awarded a Grade 1 for its International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) qualification, after an assessment commissioned by the Department for Education
The report praised the close co-ordination between trainees, mentors and tutors, as well as robust systems for tracking progress and providing targeted support. High-quality training resources and strong oversight of mentors were also singled out.
Julie Buckland, associate director in education at UWE Bristol’s School of Education and Childhood, said the result reflects the strength of the programme from design through to delivery.
“We’re thrilled to have achieved this grade. It reflects the dedication, expertise and relentless hard work that goes into our initial teacher education programmes, from curriculum design to our partnerships with international schools,” Julie said.
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“A huge thank you goes to every UWE iQTS student past and present, to their schools and mentors, and to our incredible iQTS team. We couldn’t be prouder of this achievement or of the impact our community continues to make on teaching and learning across the world.”
Introduced in the 2023-24 academic year, the iQTS course is now in its third year and has expanded rapidly. It is currently delivered in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University, with plans for UWE Bristol to become a sole provider from September.
Inspectors highlighted several key strengths in UWE Bristol’s programme, including strong collaboration between trainees, mentors and tutors, effective tracking of progress with timely support and robust quality assurance.
They also praised the high standard of learning resources, comprehensive mentor training and oversight and the provider’s responsiveness in adapting the course based on feedback.
The qualification was available in 39 countries during the 2025-26 academic year, underlining its growing global reach.
All photos: UWE Bristol
UWE Bristol is a member of the Bristol24/7 Better Business network, an initiative to help businesses thrive while creating a positive impact on Bristol and the people who live here. As part of their membership, businesses can publish member news stories like this. For more information, visit my.bristol247.com/better-business
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