FAQs

An apprenticeship is a real job with training. Apprentices are employed by a school while studying towards a nationally recognised qualification. They combine on-the-job experience with off-the-job training, gaining practical skills, knowledge, and behaviours that directly link to their role. For schools, it’s a cost-effective way to develop staff who are learning and working at the same time.

Apprenticeships are open to anyone aged 16 and over who is employed in a school or childcare setting. You don’t need previous experience to apply - what matters most is your commitment to learning and developing in your role. For employers, apprenticeships can support new staff or upskill existing employees.

All apprentices are paid a salary by their employer. Pay varies depending on the role and setting, but every apprentice receives at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices (many schools choose to pay more).

For employers, training costs depend on the size of the organisation:

• Levy-paying employers (annual payroll over £3m) use their apprenticeship levy to cover training costs in full. So, there is no cost to the learner, school or department.
• Non-levy employers contribute just 5% of the training fee, with the government paying the remaining 95%. For example, a £7,000 programme would cost the school only £350.

Apprenticeships allow learners to earn while they learn, gain a nationally recognised qualification, and develop skills they can use straight away in the classroom. For employers, apprenticeships bring fresh ideas, support staff retention, improve teaching and learning, and provide a sustainable pipeline of skilled support staff.

We specialise in apprenticeships designed for schools and educational settings. Our current programmes include:

• Teaching Assistant Level 3
• Early Years Educator Level 3
• HR Support in Education Level 3
• School Sports Coach Level 4
• ICT Level 3
• School Business Administrator Level 3
• Specialist Teaching Assistant Level 5 (from 2026)
• Early Years Lead Practitioner Level 5 (from 2026)
• CIPD People Professional (HR) Level 5 (from 2026)

Learners can apply directly through our website or speak to their school about registering interest. Once you apply, our recruitment team guides you through eligibility checks, interviews, and enrolment. For schools, we support the whole process from advertising vacancies and shortlisting candidates to onboarding and enrolment – all for FREE.

Most apprenticeships last between 15 and 24 months, depending on the level and programme. Employers benefit from steady, structured development with measurable milestones built into each stage of the programme.

Entry requirements vary by programme. Some require GCSEs in English and maths, but if learners don’t already have them, they can complete Functional Skills alongside their apprenticeship. For schools, we check role suitability to make sure the apprentice’s day-to-day responsibilities align with the chosen programme.

Yes. We work directly with schools across the country to recruit, train, and support apprentices. Our team helps with advertising vacancies, shortlisting applicants, and ensuring you find the right fit for your setting. Many schools also use apprenticeships to upskill existing staff, not just to bring in new colleagues.

Every apprentice is supported by a dedicated tutor, a workplace mentor, and our wider team. We provide regular online live teaching sessions, one-to-one reviews, safeguarding and wellbeing support, and access to high-quality resources tailored to education. For schools, we provide progress updates and guidance throughout the apprenticeship journey.