In Scotland, you can choose to take part in the Chartered Teacher programme. It's ideal if you want to develop your teaching skills but stay in the classroom – rather than work towards a management role.

The Chartered Teacher programme is made up of 12 modules; each module involves around 150 hours of study. The modules include:

• Developing core skills
• Respond to individual pupils' needs
• Curriculum and subject specialisms
• Inclusion

The modules are provided through universities – but there are no exams, just continual assessment.

You can stop the programme for a break whenever you like, and start again when you're ready.

When you complete the Chartered Teacher Programme, you'll be awarded a Masters Degree, and the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS) will give you the professional award of Chartered Teacher.

Who Can Become a Chartered Teacher?

To join the Chartered Teacher programme you must be at the top of the teacher salary scale. You’ll also need an up-to-date CPD portfolio.

Once you're on the programme, your salary will increase every time you complete two modules. Chartered Teachers can earn up to a maximum of £38,013 in April 2006, rising to £38,868 in April 2007.