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.
Specialist Teaching Assistant - Apply now for 1st July 2026
The Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship programme is open and we are excited to offer this opportunity to experienced Teaching Assistants (TAs) across all school settings, with training set to begin on 1st July 2026.
Lead Practitioner Programme - Apply now for 6th July 2026
This Level 4 programme focusses on developing teaching and learning using a variety of tools and techniques, including project management tools to ensure that student outcomes, teacher development, and learning culture are consistently improved. Practitioners will develop the ability to lead change initiatives, support teachers, and make data-driven decisions to enhance educational quality and student success. This year Apprentices will also develop an understanding of how artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools can support data analysis, automate processes, and enhance decision making.
Teaching Assistant - Apply now for Autumn Term 2026
Teaching Assistants support the class teacher to enhance learners’ progress by ensuring that learners understand their work, know their learning objectives, and display positive learning behaviours in order to make progress. This apprenticeship is open to all school settings and will start in the Autumn term.
Leading Education Support Teams - Apply now for Autumn Term 2026
Previously the Level 3 Team Leader for Support Staff apprenticeship, this popular 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.
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.
