Can you do a teaching apprenticeship in teaching?
When it comes to embarking on a teacher training course, finding the right training provider is crucial. But what are your options? For some, a traditional PGCE or similar course might not be quite right. Perhaps you need to work while studying or simply need an option that works around your current role. A teaching apprenticeship might be the right choice for you here.
What is a teaching apprenticeship?
A teacher apprenticeship is a teacher training programme that offers an alternative route to qualified teacher status (QTS). Learners on a teacher apprenticeship work within a school team whilst completing a structured course of online and in-school training that is specific to their subject and age group.
Depending on the apprenticeship level, learners can choose between a bachelor’s-level degree apprenticeship that lasts for four years, or a post-graduate degree apprenticeship which lasts for around 10 months.
On either course, candidates receive:
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A nationally recognised QTS qualification
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Knowledge and understanding of their chosen subject or age group
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Practical teaching skills, ideas and activities to use in the classroom
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A deeper knowledge and understanding of how schools work through working as a member of the team
Who can do a teaching apprenticeship?
Entry requirements depend on each individual course. However, the typical entry requirements for an undergraduate or post-graduate apprenticeship are as follows:
Undergraduate teacher apprenticeship entry requirements:
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GCSEs at grade 4(C) or above in English and maths (plus science if the candidate wants to teach primary)
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A levels – the number and grades are set by individual institutions but three A levels at C or above are usually required
Postgraduate teacher apprenticeship entry requirements:
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GCSEs at grade 4(C) or above in English and maths (plus science if the candidate wants to teach primary)
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A bachelor’s degree from a UK higher education institution (or equivalent)
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Secure English Language Test (SELT) at level B2 or above of the with an approved provider within the last two years (if relevant)
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An offer of employment in a school as an unqualified teacher
Postgraduate degree apprenticeships from Tes Institute
Our funded Level 6 Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship is a work-based route into teaching that allows you to gain qualified teacher status (QTS) and an optional self-funded Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). Awarded by University of East London (UEL), our apprenticeship programme allows you to study while you work as part of your school team, with support from your school, your mentor and the Tes Institute team.
What schools say:
We're proud to receive positive reviews from schools, highlighting our commitment to meeting their needs. Let's take a closer look at the key strengths identified by schools:
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Providing the right training at the right time: Schools have praised our ability to deliver timely and relevant training, ensuring that you receive the skills and knowledge you need, precisely when you need them.
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Effectively communicating with schools: We take great pride in fostering strong partnerships with schools and ensuring that information flows seamlessly between us.
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Getting new apprentices started promptly: Schools have commended us on our efficiency in initiating teaching apprentices into our training programmes, ensuring a smooth transition into the apprenticeship journey.
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Accurate initial assessment of apprentices: We're committed to accurately assessing your skills and competencies so we can provide personalised and effective training to support your growth.
What apprentices say:
We're over the moon to receive such great feedback from teaching apprentices like yourself who've thrived on our training programmes. Let's explore what our learners like about training with us:
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“If you are considering the Postgraduate Teaching Apprenticeship route, you won’t look back. Earning and learning provided the perfect balance and has given me a strong start as an Early Career Teacher.” - Emma Shade, Postgraduate Teaching Apprentice at Tiger Primary School
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“What I like most about Tes Institute is that I don’t feel like I’m studying! I’m in the classroom, doing my duty, working with children, and helping them to grow while also working towards a nationally recognised qualification.” - Stacey Louise Ford, Teaching Assistant Apprentice at Queniborough C.E. Primary School
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“Throughout my ITT year, the support I received from Tes Institute, the online learning sessions and the visits and feedback from my tutor were all of the highest quality. My Tes pathway tutor was so approachable and encouraging; she really made a huge difference to my enjoyment of the course.” - Lauren Edmunds, Postgraduate Teaching Apprentice at Netley Abbey Junior School
Become a teacher with Tes Institute
We've earned an excellent reputation in the education sector, and our status as an Ofsted-accredited teacher training provider demonstrates our commitment to quality. Since 2024, we have qualified 280 teachers taking the PGTA. Our collaborative approach with schools ensures that teaching apprentices feel confident and supported every step of the way.
Alternatively, if you're looking to develop your career as a Teaching Assistant, our funded Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship will enable you to gain a nationally recognised qualification, improve your practice and learn valuable skills to help your pupils reach their full potential. Find out more and apply on our Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship course page.