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 

The third cohort starts in January 2025. 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.  

Level 3 Apprenticeship for Teaching Assistants - Coming Soon

We are now also delighted to announce that our newest Level 3 apprenticeship programme will launch in January 2025. Expressions of interest for our first cohort can be directed to Julia Quick: j.quick@hfed.net to ensure you are notified when applications go live. 

 

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.