FAQs

GENERAL

Why do we have teacher registration in Queensland?
Teacher registration ensures that only qualified and suitable people are employed to teach in our schools, which not only strengthens the standard of education for our children but also protects their safety. This ultimately ensures the integrity and accountability of the profession.

When was the Queensland College of Teachers established?
The Queensland College of Teachers was established on 1 January 2006, to replace the former Board of Teacher Registration.

What is an 'approved teacher'?

An 'approved teacher', as defined in the Act, is a person who either is a registered teacher (ie holds full or provisional registration under the Act) or holds a permission to teach.

Registration and the 'Blue Card'- given that there will now be regular, five-yearly criminal history checks for renewal of registration, do teachers still need a "Blue Card" to undertake other kinds of child-related employment?
Yes. Teacher registration still relates only to employment as a teacher in Queensland schools. Registered teachers who wish to participate in other child-related activities, either as a paid employee or as a volunteer, are still required to obtain a "Blue Card" from the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian. Registered teachers teaching in community kindergartens are also still required to hold a "Blue Card".

REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION

What are the requirements for registration?
Applicants are required to be suitably qualified, to be a suitable person to be registered as a teacher, and meet the English language proficiency requirements.

What are the requirements regarding English language proficiency?
A requirement for both provisional and full registration is the ability to communicate in spoken and written English at a professional level. The QCT has determined how English language proficiency is to be determined and assessed for all applicants for registration.
Applicants from most overseas countries are required to undertake the IELTS test (International English Language Testing System), and score at a level of 7 or higher in each area of the test. Scores of 4 for Speaking, Listening and Reading, and 3+ for Writing, on the ISLPR scale are also accepted.
Queensland universities are required to ensure that graduates from non-English speaking backgrounds meet these same standards.

PROVISIONAL REGISTRATION

What is provisional registration?
Provisional registration is an acknowledgement that teacher education is a continuum made up of the preservice program, induction and continuing career-long professional development.
Provisional registration is a transition period to full registration. It is provided for recent teacher education graduates from universities in Australia as well as some teachers applying for registration after a career break or teachers applying for Queensland registration from interstate or overseas

How long is the period of provisional registration?
Under legislation applying from 1 January, 2006, provisional registration is for an initial period of two years.

How do I know when my provisional registration period expires?
Check your Certificate of Registration. The end date of your provisional registration is shown on your certificate; this is subject to payment of the annual fee.

Can the period of provisional registration be extended?
Yes. If you do not meet the requirements for full registration before your provisional registration is due to expire, your provisional registration may be extended for a further two years. Only one such extension is permitted.

What are the requirements for obtaining full registration?
To gain full registration, you need to successfully complete a year of teaching (200 days or 1000 hours is regarded as equivalent to one year of full-time teaching) and demonstrate achievement against the QCT Professional Standards for Queensland Teachers.
If teachers have conditions on their provisional registration, i.e. an undertaking to complete additional studies, these conditions will also need to be satisfied in order to gain full registration.

What is the process for moving to full registration?
The QCT has developed a new process, outlined in the policy.

What kind of teaching experience is acceptable for the assessment of eligibility for full registration?
Classroom teaching experience in a Queensland state or non-state school, or a recognised school in another Australian state or territory or New Zealand is acceptable. Teaching an educational program based on a QSA approved or accredited syllabus or kindergarten guideline in another setting is also acceptable.

If teaching in another setting in Queensland, a provisionally registered teacher must apply to the QCT to have their teaching experience recognised. This also requires the organisation to apply to the QCT for recognition.

PROVISIONALLY REGISTERED SUPPLY TEACHERS

What if I have difficulty gaining the required experience of 200 days?

The required minimum teaching experience of one year (200 days or 1000 hours) does not have to be completed in one school or within one year and may include a number of individual days as well as continuous teaching experience.

In some cases, supply teachers may experience difficulty in obtaining sufficient teaching work to meet the requirement. If you find you are in this situation, you are encouraged to make personal contact with schools in your local area, providing a CV and explaining the circumstances and need for teaching experience. If possible, provide references from schools where teaching experience has been gained. Maintain regular contact with local schools, participating in professional development where possible at these schools e.g. on pupil free days.

As a provisionally registered teacher, you have an initial period of two years (with one extension of two years possible) in order to move through the process to gain full registration. If you do not move to full registration within the four years, your registration will end and you will need to reapply for provisional registration.

How can Supply Teachers access induction and support?

Provisionally registered supply teachers are encouraged to build strong relationships with local schools and, in particular, with schools where employment is most regular. It is important to get to know the relevant members of the administration team and curriculum leaders in the schools.

Supply teachers should inquire about the availability of induction programs for beginning teachers. Often these are run after school on a regular basis and schools may be amenable to participation by ‘regular’ supply teachers in these programs.

The QCT’s Beginning to Teach website includes valuable information and professional development materials.

How can Supply Teachers demonstrate achievement across the standards to meet the requirements for full registration?

Examples of practice from supply teaching may be used to demonstrate achievement of the standards. These examples may be selected from those gathered across a number of schools. This provides flexibility for teachers who are not in full-time employment, or teachers who move across school locations. Examples of practice should be verified by the relevant person at the time (e.g. principal, deputy principal, head of curriculum, head of department). Where your teaching engagement stretches over a number of days, take advantage of the situation by inviting an administrator into the classroom to observe your teaching. Supply teachers can also request permission to attend collegial meetings, faculty meetings etc. When engaged on a contract, supply teachers are encouraged to make the most of the opportunity of extended practice to engage in longer term planning, implementation and assessment to demonstrate achievement of the Standards.

RENEWAL OF REGISTRATION

How often will I have to renew my registration?
The period of registration is now five years, with renewal of registration at the end of each period. While registration will be renewed every five years, registration will only remain current if the Annual Registration Fee has been paid.

What are the requirements for renewing my registration?
For renewal of registration, teachers who demonstrate recency of practice must also have undertaken the continuing professional development (CPD) as required under the continuing professional development framework of the QCT.
Teachers must also demonstrate their continuing suitability to teach (a criminal history check will be conducted by the QCT).
Members of the profession who do not meet recency of practice requirements in a period of registration will continue to be eligible for full registration and will not be required to meet the CPD requirements for renewal of registration at the end of that period of registration. However, their registration will be renewed subject to a Returning to Teaching in Schools condition. The QCT is currently developing policy and procedures for renewal of registration and information will be added to the website as it is available.

When will I first have to renew?
Previously registered teachers, whose registration ‘rolled over’ to the new Queensland College of Teachers on its commencement, will need to renew their registration for 2011. That is, they will need to apply for renewal in the last months of 2010. While registration will be renewed every five years, registration will only remain current if the Annual Registration Fee has been paid.

RECENCY OF PRACTICE

What is recency of practice?

Recency of practice is defined as teaching in a Queensland school, or teaching an educational program based on a syllabus or kindergarten guideline approved by the QSA in another setting, for the equivalent of one year (200 days or 1000 hours) within the five year period of registration.

Will I be able to remain registered, even after a lengthy absence from teaching?
The minimum practice requirement for renewal of registration is at least one year within the five years preceding the application for renewal. However those registrants with less than the minimum requirements will have their registration renewed, subject to a satisfactory criminal history check, with the condition that they successfully complete a ‘Returning to Teaching’ professional development program prior to or within the first 12 months after returning to teach in a school.

How will the new ‘recency of practice’ provisions affect supply teachers?
Certainly, supply teaching will count – and has always counted – as professional practice. The QCT has determined that "one year" be defined as a total of 200 days or 1000 hours, which may be completed at any time within the five years preceding renewal of registration. Supply teachers will maintain their registration and be able to continue to do supply teaching, although some may need to undertake a 'Returning to Teaching’ program if they do not meet this minimum requirement.

If I don’t have recency of practice, can I still keep my registration?

Yes. You will maintain your full registration by paying your annual fee but it will be subject to a Returning to Teaching in Schools condition. This means that when (or if) you decide to return to teach in a school, you will need to complete a Returning to Teaching in Schools professional development program in the 12 months prior or within 12 months of returning to teaching in a school.

If I don’t have recency of practice, do I have to do professional development?

You are not required to meet the CPD requirements of the CPD Framework if you do not have recency of practice. However, the Returning to Teaching in Schools condition as outlined above will apply.

See the questions about ‘Returning to Teaching’ below for further information.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

The Board of the QCT endorsed the Continuing Professional Development Framework in December 2008. The CPD Framework outlines the amount and type of CPD required.

What does `CPD required’ mean?

Teachers engage in a range of professional development activities to develop their skills and practice. The CPD required under the CPD Framework means that teachers will undertake CPD that demonstrates:

a balance across the following identified areas

employer directed and supported CPD
school supported CPD
individually identified CPD;

a range of types of CPD activities; and
completion of at least the minimum amount required.

How much CPD do I need to undertake?

Teachers working full-time will need to do at least 30 hours of CPD per year. The Framework contains a pro-rata schedule for teachers working less than full time.

Does ‘balance’ mean that I have to do the same amount of CPD in each area?

No. The balance may vary according to the particular teacher’s situation. For example, in some employer settings the first two areas (employer directed and supported and school supported) may merge. For relief teachers a greater emphasis on individually identified CPD may be appropriate

I already spend a lot of time planning as well as involvement in meetings and extra curricula activities. Do I have to do CPD as well?

Yes. CPD does not include normal expectations of the teaching role. Planning and preparation, engagement in extra curricula activities and attending routine core business meetings are part of your role as a teacher.

Will I be able to meet the CPD required without taking time out of my school?

The CPD Framework places a high value on the quality professional development activities that occur at the school site. In addition there is a wide range of CPD that may be undertaken by teachers outside school hours, including online courses. Table 1 in the CPD Framework provides some examples of types of CPD.

Should I be recording my CPD activities now?

During 2009 teachers and employers will be provided with further information about the CPD Framework and its links to the Professional Standards for Queensland Teachers. From 2010, the Framework will be introduced and teachers who meet recency of practice will be required to meet all requirements, including maintaining records of their professional development. However, for 2010 only, the QCT will not apply sanctions if a teacher is unable to meet the CPD required. If you do not meet recency of practice, a Returning to Teaching in Schools condition will apply.

CPD–Supply and Contract Teachers

As a supply teacher, do I have to do CPD?

Supply teachers who meet the Recency of Practice requirement, defined as having taught in a school for the equivalent of one year (200 days) within the five year period of registration, will need to undertake CPD in accordance with the CPD Framework.

How much CPD do I need to do each year?

The CPD Framework contains a pro-rata schedule to indicate the minimum CPD requirement for teachers employed less than full time. Supply teachers will need to monitor progressively the number of days they teach to assist in determining the required CPD. Contract teachers will usually be required to participate in a range of site-based professional development while working in a school and should monitor that they meet the required minimum for the year, according to the time that they are working in schools.

Do I have to achieve a balance across the three CPD areas – employer directed and supported; school supported and individually identified?

Yes, but the QCT recognises that teachers engage in a wide range of activities to contribute to their ongoing learning and growth and, depending on the context, the balance will be different for different teachers. Within their CPD plan, supply teachers may wish to have a stronger emphasis on individually identified professional development. Contract teachers working for an extended period in a school may find that they participate in a greater range of school based or employer directed professional development.

How can I access employer directed and supported or school supported CPD?

The CPD Framework emphasises the importance of quality professional development opportunities that occur at the school site. Supply teachers will need to take a proactive approach and develop close relationships with a school or schools in which they work on a regular basis. As a minimum, teachers should know who coordinates professional development within the school and how to access information about the opportunities that may be available and appropriate to them. Contract teachers usually will participate in the range of school-based activities while employed within the school. Records of participation should be verified at the time.

How should I record and report on my CPD activities?

A record of the CPD that you have undertaken can be in a form that best suits your individual needs. An optional online recording tool will be available on the QCT website. Supply and contract teachers who are not part of a QCT/employer agreement will report to the QCT on an individual basis. You should keep your records and evidence for 12 months following renewal of registration and make this available to the QCT only if your records are requested.

CPD–Retired Teachers

I may do some supply teaching during the next few years. How much CPD will I need to do?

If you meet the Recency of Practice requirement of 200 days of teaching in schools within the five year period of registration, you will need to meet the requirements of the CPD Framework. The pro-rata schedule within the CPD Framework indicates the minimum annual requirement for teachers working less than full time. You should monitor how much teaching you are doing in schools to determine your situation.

How do I record my CPD activities?

A record of the CPD that you have undertaken can be in a form that best suits your individual needs. Evidence should be verified at the time by the provider. An optional online recording tool will be available on the QCT website that may help you maintain your records. You should also keep a record of your hours of teaching practice. These records may need to be supported by Statements of Service from the employer/s.

CPD–Teachers in rural and remote communities

I teach in a remote area of the state and have limited access to face-to-face CPD. How will I achieve the amount and range of CPD required according to the CPD Framework?

The CPD Framework places a high value on the quality professional development activities that occur at the school site. There are also opportunities to support your professional development with online courses that are relevant to teaching. These activities can contribute to your annual CPD requirement. Developing an individual plan and identifying your learning needs and goals with regard to the Professional Standards for Queensland Teachers early in the year, may also assist you in planning your CPD. Table 1 in the CPD Framework provides some examples of types of CPD activities that could be undertaken by teachers, including those in rural areas.

CPD–Teachers not employed in schools

I am a fully registered teacher but am not currently employed in the education sector. Can I still be a registered teacher?

Yes. You will maintain your full registration by paying your annual fee but will be subject to a Returning to Teaching in Schools condition. This means that when (or if) you decide to return to teach in a school, you will need to complete a Returning to Teaching in Schools professional development program.

I have been teaching in a non-school setting during the period of registration. Will I meet the Recency of Practice requirement and will I need to show the QCT that I have done CPD during this time?

Under the legislation Teaching in schools is defined as teaching in state or non-state schools in Queensland. Therefore, your teaching experience must be in a Queensland school, either on a permanent, contract or supply basis, to contribute to your Recency of Practice requirement. Teachers who do not meet the recency of practice requirement will still have their full registration renewed and will not be required to meet the CPD Framework requirements. However, their registration will be subject to a Returning to Teaching in Schools condition. Teachers with this condition will need to complete a Returning to Teaching in Schools professional development program only when or if they return to teaching in a school.

‘RETURNING TO TEACHING’ PROGRAM

When will I need to undertake a ‘Returning to Teaching in Schools’ program?

Fully registered teachers who do not have recency of practice (have not completed 200 days of teaching in a school or other approved setting in the five year period of registration)at the time of their five-yearly renewal of registration will maintain their full registration but with a condition to undertake an approved ‘Returning to Teaching’ program, either in the 12 months before or within 12 months after the day they return to teach in a school.

Who will pay for the ‘Returning to Teaching in Schools’ program?

If a fee is required for all or part of a ‘Returning to Teaching in a School’ program, the individual teacher is responsible for the associated costs.

Will it be difficult to do the ‘Returning to Teaching in Schools’ program if I have family commitments or don’t live in a metropolitan area?

‘Returning to Teaching in Schools’ programs will be delivered by appropriate providers in a variety of flexible modes, for example on-line and flexible delivery.
The program may vary according to the needs and background of the teacher.

Why do I need to do a Returning to Teaching program?

Returning to Teaching programs assist teachers returning to classroom teaching in understanding the current curriculum frameworks, teaching and learning practices, and legislative and legal responsibilities that are central to their work with students in contemporary school settings. Returning to Teaching programs are a requirement under the Education (Queensland College of Teachers) Act 2005.

What is a Returning to Teaching program?

A Returning to Teaching program is a program of professional development of approximately 30 hours. It will provide opportunities for teachers who do not have recency or practice (have not completed 200 days of teaching in a school or other approved setting in the five year period of registration) to meet the condition placed on their registration.

How do I know what program to do?

Returning to Teaching programs must be approved by the QCT. The QCT website lists all approved Returning to Teaching programs.

Will there be a process for recognition of prior learning (RPL)?

Applications for RPL will be considered by the provider of the Returning to Teaching program, where a teacher can demonstrate relevant current knowledge and understandings against the content of a particular strand or specific topic of a strand as a result of recent learning, employment or experience.

REGISTRATION FEES

Is there still an annual fee?
Yes. While registration will be renewed every five years, registration will only remain current if the Annual Registration Fee has been paid.

What does the annual fee pay for?

The annual fee enables the QCT to undertake the functions outlined in the legislation and ensure its independent operation. The fees will ensure the QCT is able to:

Develop and implement the Professional Standards for entry to, and ongoing membership of, the profession;
Establish a code of practice for Queensland Teachers;
Assess overseas and interstate qualifications for the purposes of teacher registration;
Conduct regular criminal history checks on approved teachers;
Investigate serious complaints against teachers to improve child safety and maintain standards;
Maintain a system of provisional registration for new teachers which ensures they meet the standards for full registration;
Approve Queensland preservice teacher education programs;
Develop policy and administer CPD requirements, for purposes of renewal of registration;
Develop policy and administer recency of practice requirements, for purposes of renewal of registration;
Develop guidelines for and endorse ‘returning to teaching in schools’ programs;
Undertake research that will benefit the profession; and
Promote the profession to raise the status of teaching and teachers in Queensland.

Can I pay my Annual Fee for 2 or 3 years in advance with the Queensland College of Teachers?
No. Under the new legislation, there is no provision to pay the annual fee in advance with the Queensland College of Teachers.

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