Teaching apprenticeships offer a practical and accessible route into education, allowing individuals to earn while they learn and build a rewarding long‑term career. In England, apprenticeships in teaching are available across primary schools and early years settings, making them suitable for school leavers, career changers, and those already working in education who want to progress.

This guide explains what teaching apprenticeships are, the different levels available, and how apprentice careers in teaching can develop over time.

What Are Teaching Apprenticeships?

Teaching apprenticeships combine paid employment with structured training and qualification. Apprentices work directly in education settings while completing recognised apprenticeship standards.

Unlike traditional college‑only routes, teaching apprenticeships focus heavily on real‑world experience. Apprentices gain hands‑on skills while supporting children’s learning, development and wellbeing.

Teaching apprenticeships in England are available primarily in:

• Primary schools
• Early years settings and nurseries

Why Choose an Apprenticeship in Teaching?

Teaching apprenticeships are popular because they:

• Allow you to earn while you learn
• Provide practical classroom experience
• Offer recognised qualifications
• Create clear career progression routes
• Reduce the cost of education and training

For many people, apprenticeships remove barriers to entering teaching and education, particularly for those who prefer learning on the job.

Teaching Apprenticeships in Primary Schools and Early Years

Primary School Teaching Assistant Apprenticeships

Teaching assistant apprenticeships in primary schools are one of the most common routes into education. Apprentices support class teachers, help pupils with learning activities, and contribute to a positive learning environment.

These roles are ideal for individuals who enjoy working with children and want to develop education‑specific skills from the ground up.

Early Years and Nursery Apprenticeships

Early years teaching apprenticeships focus on supporting children from birth to age five. Apprentices work in nurseries, pre‑schools, and foundation stages, supporting early learning and development.

Early years apprenticeships are well suited to people who enjoy hands‑on, play‑based learning and supporting children at a critical stage of development.

Teaching Apprenticeship Levels Explained

Level 2 Teaching and Early Years Apprenticeships

Level 2 apprenticeships are entry‑level roles and are ideal for:

• School leavers
• Individuals with limited experience
• Those starting a career in education

These apprenticeships develop core skills such as communication, child development and classroom support.

Level 3 Teaching Assistant and Early Years Educator Apprenticeships

Level 3 apprenticeships are the most common in teaching. They provide a recognised qualification and open the door to further progression.

Many employers view Level 3 apprentices as fully trained professionals capable of supporting learning independently.

Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) and Higher Apprenticeships

Higher apprenticeships allow experienced teaching assistants to take on greater responsibility. These roles often involve planning lessons, leading small groups and supporting specialist learning needs.

Higher apprenticeships are a stepping stone into leadership roles within education.

Teacher Degree Apprenticeships

Teacher degree apprenticeships provide a route to full Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) while working in a school. Apprentices complete a degree alongside classroom experience.

This route is ideal for those committed to becoming a qualified teacher but who want to train while earning.

Who Are Teaching Apprenticeships Suitable For?

Teaching apprenticeships are suitable for:

• School leavers aged 16+
• Career changers looking for meaningful work
• Teaching assistants looking to gain qualifications
• Early years practitioners wanting to progress

No matter your background, apprenticeships offer a structured and supportive way into teaching careers.

Skills Needed for an Apprentice Career in Teaching

Key skills include:

• Patience and empathy
• Clear communication
• Organisation and reliability
• A genuine interest in child development
• Willingness to learn

Many of these skills are developed further throughout the apprenticeship.

Career Progression After a Teaching Apprenticeship

Completing a teaching apprenticeship can lead to:

• Permanent teaching assistant roles
• Senior or higher‑level teaching assistant positions
• Early years leadership roles
• Teacher training via higher or degree apprenticeships

Apprenticeships provide a foundation for long‑term careers in education.

Finding Teaching Apprenticeships in England

Why Use the Apprentice Employment Agency?

The Apprentice Employment Agency supports individuals looking to build careers through apprenticeships. We work with education providers across England to help candidates:

• Find suitable teaching apprenticeship roles
• Understand progression routes
• Get ongoing support throughout their apprenticeship

Our approach focuses on matching people with opportunities where they can learn, grow and succeed.