Do you need QTS to tutor? What funded 1:1 tuition really asks for

One of the most common questions from people thinking about tutoring is simple: do you need QTS to tutor? The honest answer is that it depends on the role, but for many funded 1:1 tuition roles, qualified teacher status is helpful rather than essential.

This guide explains what schools and local authorities usually look for, how QTS fits in, and what you can do to strengthen your profile whatever your background.

What QTS is and why it matters

Qualified teacher status, or QTS, is the professional status given to teachers in England who have met the required standards. It shows that someone has trained to plan, teach and assess in a classroom. Schools and local authorities value it because it signals a strong foundation in teaching.

That said, tutoring is different from classroom teaching. One to one work asks for patience, adaptability and the ability to build trust with a single pupil, and not every excellent tutor has QTS.

Do you need QTS to tutor?

For many funded tuition roles, QTS is not always required. Humly's tuition pages explain that a degree or strong subject knowledge, together with experience working with children, can be enough. Having QTS, or experience with SEN, can help you win more bookings.

Requirements can differ between schools and local authorities, so check the details of each role. Some schools prefer qualified teachers for particular subjects or exam preparation, while others place more weight on experience and fit.

Checks every tutor needs

Whatever your qualifications, you will need to pass safeguarding checks before working with pupils. These usually include an enhanced DBS check, identity verification and references, along with a review of your qualifications. They protect pupils and give schools confidence.

Start gathering your documents early. Photo ID, proof of address, certificates and referee details will speed things up.

How to strengthen your profile without QTS

If you do not have QTS, you can still build a strong profile. Gain experience in schools by volunteering or working as a teaching assistant. Take short courses on SEND, safeguarding, behaviour and subject knowledge. Keep a record of what you have done, with dates and certificates.

When you describe your experience, be specific. Say what you taught, who you worked with and what you achieved. Schools value clear examples more than long lists.

Thinking about QTS as a next step

If you enjoy tutoring and want to build a longer term career in education, you may consider training for QTS in the future. Many routes exist, including school based and university based options. You can keep tutoring while you decide, and your experience will help if you choose to train.

What schools notice in a profile

When a school or local authority looks at a tutor profile, they usually want to see a few clear things. Your subject knowledge, the age groups you have worked with, any experience with special educational needs and the settings where you are happy to work all matter. A short, warm summary of who you are and how you like to teach can help a pupil's family and school feel at ease. Be honest about your experience, and say what you are keen to learn. Honesty builds trust, and trust is the foundation of good tutoring.

Getting started whatever your background

You do not have to wait for QTS to begin tutoring. If you have strong subject knowledge, experience with children and a caring, reliable approach, you may already have much of what funded tuition asks for. Register with Humly, complete your checks and start exploring the work that suits you.