Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship is an excellent choice for those looking to gain hands-on experience while earning a qualification. For example, the Level 6 Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship allows individuals to work in schools while training as teachers, combining real-world classroom experience with academic learning. This route with our partner the National Institute of Teaching provides a fast track to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with funding and salary support.
Harris Federation’s Main Provider Status of Apprenticeships
Since 2019, Harris Federation has been an employer provider of apprenticeships, and more recently our Harris Institute has attained Main Provider Status too. This enables us to deliver our education-based programmes to apprentices and employers across the country.
Our Programmes
It is our aim to ensure all staff who work in schools can access on-the-job training and qualifications whether that be through our very own Level 5 Coaching Professional Apprenticeship for senior and middle leaders; or our Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship for aspiring leaders in school support teams, like finance, estates, HR and IT – there is a programme for you.
Coaching Professional Level 5 - Applications are open now for January 2026
The fourth cohort starts in January 2026. This qualification is tailored for aspiring coaches eager to make a difference by supporting individuals in educational or school environments. Coaching isn’t just about imparting knowledge,it’s about fostering self-belief, enhancing self-awareness, and cultivating collaborative workplaces to facilitate transition and transformation.
Specialist Teaching Assistant Level 5 - Applications open for July 2025
Harris Institute is pleased to announce the launch of its new Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship programme. This exciting opportunity is available to experienced Teaching Assistants (TAs) across both primary and secondary academies, with training set to begin on 1st July 2025. To find out more please email: M.Lopez@Harrisinstitute.org.uk
Lead Improvement Practitioner Level 4 - Apply now
This 14 month programme is designed to equip Practitioners with the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to foster continuous improvement in their Academies through the development of teaching and learning. Starting in Autumn term 2025.
Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Level 3 - Apply now for January 2026
We are now also delighted to announce that our newest Level 3 apprenticeship programme launched in January 2025. Questions about this programme can be directed to Julia Quick: j.quick@hfed.net. For more information click here.
Team Leader for Support Staff Level 3 - Apply now for cohort 2
This apprenticeship will provide you with leadership training for a formal qualification and covers the key competencies that new leaders in schools need to successfully lead a team. It equips learners with the ability to effectively manage a team, plan and monitor workloads/ resources and build professional relationships. The programme is designed to develop the skills and obtain the knowledge necessary to become an effective leader. Cohort 2 is starting in the Autumn term 2025.
Our Partner Programmes
Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship (PGTA) Level 6 with National Institute of Teaching
The Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship (PGTA) offers aspiring teachers a unique opportunity to earn while they train, gaining hands-on experience in the classroom while receiving expert guidance. Apprentices benefit from a fully funded pathway to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a salary, combining practical learning with academic study. This route equips apprentices with in-depth skills and confidence as they embark on their teaching careers. To find out more please click here.
Ofsted
In January 2024, we were excited to receive a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted for our first apprenticeship inspection. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams, and of course, our fantastic learners on both programmes.
Curriculum and Outcomes
“Apprentices study an ambitious curriculum, which has a very positive impact on their development.”
Programme Leaders and Tutors
“Leaders and managers make sure that apprentices are taught by highly skilled and experienced tutors and programme leads.”
Employers and Line Managers
“Line managers provide effective support for apprentices at work. They make sure that apprentices have good opportunities to consolidate, practise and develop […] Line managers value the positive contribution that apprentices make at work.”
Benefits
Schools benefit significantly from hosting apprentices. Programmes like the Coaching Professional Apprenticeship enhance staff development, promoting leadership skills and improving staff retention. By fostering a culture of coaching, schools ensure a supportive and reflective professional environment, leading to improved well-being and performance across teams.
These apprenticeships are mutually beneficial, offering individuals a direct pathway to a rewarding career, while helping schools create sustainable talent pipelines and develop confident, capable leaders within their team.
Do you want to learn more about our apprenticeship programmes? Please get in touch with our Apprenticeships Team.
