The UK education system is currently facing several challenges when it comes to recruiting and retaining qualified staff. Additionally, the increase of pupils requiring specialist support has increased dramatically in the last few years. In order to better support pupils, School Leaders must find a solution for their staffing challenges. In this article we will discuss how apprenticeships could be the answer.

What are apprenticeships 

Apprenticeships are work-based training programmes that combine practical on-the-job experience with structured learning. They enable employees to gain new skills while working and are a cost-effective way for schools to develop their workforce by bringing in fresh talent or enhancing skills of current staff. 

Funded by the Apprenticeship Levy, apprenticeships are cost-effective way to introduce new talent into the education sector or upskill existing staff members, providing learners with a mix of hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge so they can best support pupils. 

Apprenticeships to support recruitment and retention

Apprenticeships provide a more economical way to hire and train new staff.  The UK government offers funding and incentives, including covering up to 95–100% of training costs for smaller employers. Additionally, apprenticeships can be used to upskill and training existing staff members.

This investment in staff development will help to increase retention, as studies have shown that employees are more likely to stay in a workplace if it invests in their learning and development.

Apprenticeships as a solution for the SEN Crisis 

There are currently over 1.7 million pupils in England requiring Special Education Needs (SEN). This number has been growing steadily year on year since 2016 with the UK Education system struggling to keep up with the demand for support.

Through shrinking budgets, schools are struggling to hire and training support staff. Additionally, the budget constraints lead to a cut in staff training and Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Schools can better support their SEN pupils through apprenticeships. By utilising apprenticeships schools can hire new support staff who are gaining qualifications while working in the school or upskill existing team members. 

As learners on an apprenticeship programme are working while they are gaining their qualifications, they will be able to implement their learning in real-world settings, helping to improve the school’s SEND provision from within and have immediate results in pupils’ learning.

Join LMP’s Live Webinar: “How school leaders can use the power of apprenticeships for workforce development”

Are you interested in learning more about how your school can make the most of apprenticeships to enhance your staff? LMP Education will be hosting a LIVE webinar during National Apprenticeship Week, discussing all things apprenticeships and funded training and how to use them in schools.

This event is for school and MAT leaders, CEOs, CFOs, HR Directors, Careers Advisors.

Event details:

Register to webinar

Share