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Changes to the Skills Test Regulations
From 1 September 2008 trainee teachers who have not completed the TDA skills tests (and so do not have QTS) will be prevented from going into teaching.
The change means that the 31 August 2008 will be the last date that any teacher working without passing the skills tests (and therefore does not have QTS) can lawfully be employed in maintained schools or non-maintained special schools. All trainees intending to start work as a teacher in September 2008 will therefore need to ensure they have passed all 3 skills tests by 31 August 2008.
The change in regulations was brought in following consultations by Department for Children, Schools and Families on a proposal to remove the five year period and prevent trainees without QTS going into teaching, save in some specific circumstances. The change was agreed by Parliament and will bring the skills tests in line with all other QTS standards, requiring successful completion before a trainee can be recommended for QTS.
Headteachers will therefore need to ensure all applicants have obtained qualified teacher status through passing all three skills tests before appointing any NQTs.
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