How to Become a Certified Teacher: Online Education Courses Explained

Introduction

Becoming a certified teacher is a rewarding journey that blends passion with professional training. In the UK, for example, most teachers need Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) to teach in state (maintained) primary or secondary schools. QTS is earned by completing an accredited teacher training program, often alongside a degree like a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or Bachelor of Education. Once you have QTS, you can apply for teaching jobs in schools. Outside the UK, different countries have their own teaching credentials, but the goal is the same: to ensure teachers are well-prepared. Alongside formal qualifications, accredited online courses can help you develop specialized skills – from classroom management to language teaching – to become a confident, certified educator.

1. Understand Teacher Certification Requirements

First, research what certification you need. In England, QTS is required for most teaching jobs in maintained schools. To get QTS, you usually complete a teacher training program (e.g. PGCE or School-Centered Initial Teacher Training) that is regulated by the government. This involves both coursework and classroom experience. Upon successful completion, you earn QTS and often a postgraduate qualification. In other countries, the path can vary: for instance, many require a teacher education degree plus passing a certification exam. The key is that accredited training programs ensure your qualification is recognized.

Note: Some private or academy schools may hire without QTS, but having it greatly improves your job prospects. According to UK government guidance, after 4 years teaching in England, you’ll need QTS to continue in most schools. So it’s wise to aim for a formal teaching credential if you want a long-term teaching career in the UK.

2. Gain Pedagogical Knowledge and Skills

While university programs cover the theory of education, online education courses can fill knowledge gaps and strengthen your skills in teaching strategies. Course Plus offers several accredited courses geared toward educators:

• Classroom Management & Teaching Strategies: For example, our “How to Make a Difference” course offers “actionable strategies for building strong relationships with students, motivating them, and overcoming challenges in the learning environment” . It teaches practical classroom management techniques and ways to inspire students.
  
  
• Job Preparation: The “Complete Guide to Getting a Teaching Job” course covers everything from writing a teaching CV to excelling in interviews. It’s perfect for teachers seeking guidance on portfolio building, interview skills, and finding the right school.
  
  
• Specialist Topics: Depending on your field, you might take courses in areas like special educational needs, educational technology, or teaching language. For example, accredited TEFL/TESOL courses (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) can help if you want to teach English abroad.
  
  

These courses won’t replace your official teaching qualification, but they complement it. By enrolling in accredited education courses on Course Plus, you earn certificates that demonstrate additional expertise. For instance, after completing our teaching strategy course, you’ll have a formal certificate showing you understand modern pedagogy. This can enhance your resume and set you apart in applications.

3. Balance Online Learning with Practice

Certified teacher programs always require practical experience in the classroom. Online courses give you the knowledge, but hands-on practice is crucial. While studying online, seek opportunities to observe or assist in schools if possible. Use what you learn in your Course Plus courses in those real settings: try a classroom management technique you picked up, or create sample lesson plans.

Because Course Plus courses are self-paced, you can study in the evenings or weekends while completing school placements or substitute teaching during the day. This flexibility is especially helpful for international students or career changers who need to learn around work or family.

4. Earn Accredited Certificates Along the Way

All Course Plus courses are CPD‑accredited, meaning they meet professional standards. In education, this accreditation signals quality. When you finish a Course Plus course, you receive a certificate of completion and an official transcript. You can include these in your teaching portfolio to show ongoing professional developmen. For example, listing a certificate from our classroom management course shows hiring managers you proactively built your skills.

Remember, teacher certification (like QTS) is regulated by governments, but your continuing professional development (CPD) is up to you. Taking accredited online courses indicates you’re committed to learning – an important trait in educators.

5. Find International Opportunities

If you aim to teach abroad, online courses also help meet requirements. Many countries respect accredited teaching certificates. For example, a TEFL/TESOL qualification is often needed to teach English overseas. And even if formal certification differs, showing you have a recognized teaching certificate (and CPD QC courses) can ease visa or job processes.

Also, Course Plus courses are globally accessible and in English, making them suitable whether you teach in the UK or internationally. The content is designed to be relevant to educators everywhere. That means any teacher can benefit from learning best practices from UK-based experts and earn a certificate that is valued internationally.

Conclusion: Blend Certification and Continuous Learning

Becoming a certified teacher involves formal credentials (like QTS in the UK) and practical training. Online accredited courses are a powerful supplement: they help you master teaching strategies, prepare for interviews, and stay inspired. As one Course Plus course notes, “with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, you’ll develop the skills needed to create an environment of trust, respect, and success”. By enrolling in these courses, you can strengthen your teaching portfolio even before (or after) obtaining your official qualification.

Ready to advance your teaching career? Explore our accredited education courses on Course Plus, boost your skills, and take a confident step toward becoming a certified teacher!