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Appropriate Body Services
Regions we serve
The Harris Institute’s Teaching School Hubs are designated by the Department for Education to operate three Appropriate Bodies in each of our TSH regions:
- Chafford Hundred, South Essex TSH provides Appropriate Body services to schools in Mid and South Essex: Basildon, Brentwood, Castle Point, Maldon, Rochford, Southend, and Thurrock.
- Crystal Palace, South London TSH provides Appropriate Body services to schools in South London: Croydon, Epsom and Ewell, and Sutton.
- North East London, Chobham TSH provides Appropriate Body services to schools in North East London: Haringey, Redbridge, and Waltham Forest.
Testimonials
"The
appropriate body has fully supported our implementation of best ECT practice, adapting paperwork and approaches to reflect realistic workloads and a strong understanding of the profession. Their support has extended beyond ECTs to mentors and induction leads, with face-to-face visits and ongoing dialogue providing valuable guidance and a sense of being valued as practitioners."
Susie Desouza, DHT and Induction Tutor, Stanley Park Infants School, Carshalton
"The support our trust receives from the AB Lead and the wider team is invaluable to all stakeholders."
Tony Parfett, CEO of Catalyst Academies Trust, Essex
"The support and practical guidance we have had from the Appropriate Body when dealing with an ECT in challenging circumstances has been excellent. The AB lead has always been available to answer questions and offer support. The AB has also listened to stakeholders and made sensible adaptations on the basis of this feedback, which is much appreciated. Communication is clear and received in a timely way."
Phil Parkin, Assistant Headteacher and Induction Tutor, The Billericay School, Essex
“I have been extremely impressed with the support and services provided by Harris Federation as our Appropriate Body. The clarity, consistency and high-quality guidance they offer ensures statutory requirements are met, while keeping professional development at the heart of the process. Their structured approach, and responsive support gives our ECTs the strong foundations they need, equipping them with the knowledge, confidence and skills for a successful and sustainable career in teaching.”
Sue Jackson, MAT CEO and Headteacher, Lee Chapel MAT, Essex
Why choose us?
- Expert compliance and guidance provides peace of mind – ensuring all statutory requirements are met.
- Efficient systems and time saved – streamlined processes, access to appropriate body templates and access to our online platform, ECT Manager reduces administrative workload.
- Dedicated support for all involved in induction – dedicated AB phone line and AB email address; monthly newsletter; resources and guidance; school visits provide constructive and supportive feedback; and personalised advice for induction tutors, mentors, and ECTs.
- Rigorous quality assurance – fair, transparent, and consistent processes.
- Flexible professional development opportunities – termly live and recorded webinars and walk-throughs, and one-to-one with those new to induction.
- Early intervention – regular monitoring and support ensure ECTs stay on track. We support communications with external bodies including Unions and HR.
- Support and guidance for all ECTs including part-time and those on maternity leave – support is tailored to the context of all schools and ECTs.
- Local partnerships enhance our support in North East London, Essex and South London – delivery partners bring local knowledge and expertise.
- National and regional AB network – we share best practice, stay ahead of policy changes, and draw on collective experience to provide consistent, high-quality support for schools and early career teachers.
Contact Us
We're always here to help! For general Appropriate Body Administrative enquiries or support with ECT Manager, please reach out to us:
Email: AB@HarrisInstitute.org.uk
Tel: 01375 484582
