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.
Learn more about how apprenticeships can benefit your school from Head of Primary, Ben Sheppard:
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 - Apply now for March 2026
The fourth cohort starts in 10th March 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 - Apply now for July 2026
The Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship programme is now excited to offer this opportunity to experienced Teaching Assistants (TAs) across both primary and secondary academies, with training set to begin on 1st July 2026.
Lead Improvement Practitioner - Apply now for May 2026
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.
The Certificate in Counselling & Mentoring Skills for Work with Children and Young People - Apply now for April 2026
This 18-month programme will show you how to build strong, supportive relationships within safe, professional, and ethical boundaries, while planning and delivering impactful mentoring sessions tailored to individual needs. Using proven models, effective communication strategies, and reflective techniques, you will help mentees grow in confidence and skills, providing meaningful feedback and guidance every step of the way.
Middle Leaders Certificate in Education - Apply now for May 2026
The Middle Leaders Certificate in Education is a nationally recognised development programme designed for aspiring and current middle leaders who want to deepen their impact, sharpen their leadership skills, and drive subject-specific excellence within their schools.
Team Leader for Support Staff - Apply now for October 2026
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 3 is starting in October 2026.
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.
