Spotlight on the Power of Apprenticeships in Teacher Training

A Guide for School Leadership

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, schools are faced with the ongoing challenge of recruiting, retaining and developing high-quality teaching staff. The traditional route of school or university-based training may not always be the most cost-effective or flexible option for individuals. However, the Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship (PGTA) offers a compelling solution, enabling schools to "grow their own" teaching staff while accessing significant financial support through the government's apprenticeship levy.

This blog post will explore the benefits of apprenticeships for school leadership, detailing how these programmes can enhance the recruitment and development of teachers, providing a sustainable model for school staffing.

What is the Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship?

The Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship (PGTA) is an innovative route to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) that allows apprentices to earn while they learn, combining practical on-the-job training with academic study. This apprenticeship programme, offered by Red Kite Teacher Training, spans 13 months and is available to both primary and secondary school candidates.

For schools, it represents an excellent opportunity to develop graduate staff who may already be embedded in your community, while benefitting from a government-funded training programme. Apprentices receive full pay on the unqualified teacher pay scale during their training, ensuring they are financially supported throughout the process.

How It Works: An Overview for Schools

The apprenticeship programme is designed to be flexible and supportive, meeting the needs of both the school and the apprentice. Schools must first ensure that the apprentice is employed and paid as an unqualified teacher, typically on Scale Point 1. The apprentice then follows a structured training pathway, culminating in the award of QTS.

One of the main benefits of the programme is that the apprenticeship levy, covers the costs of training, making it an affordable option. Furthermore, some secondary subjects are eligible for additional grants, which can offset the salary cost, helping schools reduce their expenditure.

Key Benefits for Schools

1. Cost-Effective Training: Training fees for the PGTA are funded through the apprenticeship levy, meaning schools can develop their staff without bearing the full financial burden. This is particularly beneficial for schools with limited budgets for professional development.

2. Grow Your Own Talent: One of the most significant advantages of the apprenticeship model is the ability to "grow your own" teachers. Schools can recruit apprentices from within their community, reducing the time and cost associated with external recruitment. Apprentices who are already familiar with the school culture and ethos are often more likely to stay long-term.

3. Subject-Specific Grants: For certain subjects, such as Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics, additional grants are available to contribute to salary costs. For instance, in the 2025-2026 academic year, schools can access grants of up to £29,000 for these subjects, making the apprenticeship even more financially attractive.

4. Support from Experts: The programme is designed with a high level of support for both apprentices and schools. Red Kite Teacher Training provides a detailed curriculum and offers professional development days, access to subject specialists, and visits to partner schools. Mentors within schools also receive training to help guide apprentices effectively.

5. Improved Teacher Retention: Investing in apprenticeships helps build a stronger connection between the apprentice and the school. Because apprenticeships are tailored to the school’s specific needs, teachers are better prepared to meet those needs and are often more likely to stay within the school once they complete their training.

6. Diversity in Recruitment: By offering an apprenticeship route, schools can attract a diverse range of candidates, including those who may not have previously considered a teaching career. This is particularly important in addressing the teacher shortage in specific subject areas, such as languages and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

How the Programme Benefits Apprentices

While the advantages for schools are clear, the apprenticeship model also offers substantial benefits for the apprentices themselves.

1. Earn While You Learn: Unlike traditional routes, apprentices earn a salary while they train, making teaching a viable career option for those who may not have the financial means to study full-time. This reduces the financial burden of teacher training and allows individuals to gain practical experience while earning a wage.

2. Professional Development: Apprentices receive high-quality professional development throughout their training. Red Kite Teacher Training provides regular professional development days and access to a wide range of resources. Apprentices also benefit from mentoring and guidance from experienced educators, allowing them to refine their teaching skills in a real-world classroom environment.

3. Qualification and Career Progression: The apprenticeship programme leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), a recognised qualification that opens doors to a range of career opportunities in education. Apprentices can choose to further their education by topping up their apprenticeship qualification with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), an internationally recognised qualification that contributes 60 credits towards a master's degree.

4. Specialised Support for SEND: For those with a passion for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), Red Kite offers a specific SEND apprenticeship route for both primary and secondary candidates. This option equips apprentices with the knowledge and skills to support students with additional needs, a vital area in the current educational landscape.

5. Access to a Support Network: Apprentices have access to a dedicated Early Career Leader, who provides ongoing support throughout the training. They also benefit from a network of mentors and fellow apprentices, creating a collaborative environment in which to develop teaching skills and share experiences.

The Value of the Apprenticeship Model for School Leadership

For school leaders, the apprenticeship route offers a practical and flexible solution to the ongoing challenges of teacher recruitment and retention. Not only does it provide an opportunity to develop existing staff, but it also allows schools to attract new talent in a cost-effective manner.

By supporting apprentices, schools can:

• Ensure the alignment of training with their specific needs and values
• Develop a more sustainable workforce that is likely to stay long-term
• Enhance staff morale by providing opportunities for professional development

Moreover, apprenticeships provide a clear pathway for progression, benefiting both schools and apprentices in terms of career development and job satisfaction.

Conclusion

The Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship is a dynamic and flexible route to Qualified Teacher Status that offers significant benefits to both schools and apprentices. For schools, it is a cost-effective way to recruit and train teachers, particularly when funding is tight. For apprentices, it provides a unique opportunity to earn while they learn, access high-quality training, and gain a nationally recognised qualification.

As schools face increasing pressure to manage recruitment, the apprenticeship model offers a promising solution, allowing schools to build a strong, capable workforce and invest in the future of education. The ability to ‘grow your own’ teachers ensures that schools are equipped to meet the demands of an ever-changing educational landscape.

For school leaders seeking to enhance their recruitment strategies, the Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship programme from Red Kite Teacher Training is a model worth considering.

For further information and to apply, please visit the Red Kite Teacher Training website.

Primary Teaching Apprenticeship

Secondary Teaching Apprenticeship