Through the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act (2026), the requirement for teachers to hold QTS will be extended to teachers working in primary and secondary academies, bringing academies in line with maintained schools. The legislation will also introduce a statutory induction requirement for newly qualified teachers working in affected academy settings. 

What does this mean for schools? 

School leaders should begin to consider the potential implications for: 

• Workforce and recruitment planning 

• Existing unqualified teaching staff 

• Employment-based routes into teaching 

• ECT induction arrangements 

• The use of specialist instructors and vocational teaching staff 

The DfE has confirmed that a number of exemptions will continue to apply, including for certain instructors, overseas-trained teachers, teachers undertaking recognised routes to QTS, and staff working under the supervision of a qualified teacher. Transitional arrangements will also protect existing academy staff employed before September 2027. 

Further guidance to follow 

The DfE has advised that updated regulations and full statutory guidance will be published during Autumn 2026. Teaching School Hubs have been asked to share this information with schools to help leaders understand the direction of travel and begin considering any future workforce implications. 

We encourage headteachers, trust leaders and those responsible for recruitment and professional development to review the DfE briefing, which can be found here.