For National Apprenticeship Week we decided to sit down with the Head Teacher at Ivy House (George Turner) to discuss the positive impact apprenticeship have for the whole school community.
Why did you consider apprenticeships?
We considered apprenticeships because they offered a structured and sustainable way to grow our own talent, support workforce development and strengthen the long-term stability of our team. Using the apprenticeship levy also allowed us to invest in both new and existing staff, giving them opportunities to up-skill over a longer period of time. This approach meant we could nurture motivated individuals who were eager to learn, while also ensuring that our experienced staff could pass on their specialist knowledge.
Ultimately, apprenticeships provided a framework to develop future SEND experts who truly understand our school and its values.
How have apprenticeships impacted your team, school or whole trust?
Apprenticeships have had a positive impact across our whole school community. They have helped create a highly skilled, enthusiastic and committed workforce, with apprentices who are determined to succeed and develop their practice. The structured training and mentoring process has strengthened collaboration between staff, encouraged professional reflection and contributed to a shared culture of continuous learning. As apprentices gain confidence and competence, they make meaningful contributions to classroom practice, whole-school projects and SEND support. This has reinforced the quality of provision in school and supports the wider priorities of the trust.
Any noticeable benefits or changes since introducing apprenticeship training?
We have seen several noticeable benefits. Apprentices bring fresh ideas, energy and curiosity, which encourages wider staff engagement and keeps experienced colleagues inspired. Their off-the-job training time, combined with regular mentoring, has accelerated their development and enabled them to contribute confidently to whole-school initiatives such as Agile Sprints. We have also seen strong retention, with previous apprentices successfully completing their courses and continuing to work with us. Their growth into confident, knowledgeable practitioners demonstrates the long-term value of investing in apprenticeship pathways.
Would you recommend apprenticeships to other leaders, and if so, why?
Absolutely. Apprenticeships offer a powerful route to developing skilled, motivated and loyal staff who grow with your school. They enable leaders to shape training around the specific needs of their setting, while also supporting succession planning and staff retention. The combination of practical experience and structured study helps apprentices build strong foundations in their roles, and the support from providers makes the recruitment and training process smooth and manageable. For any leader looking to strengthen their workforce and invest in future specialists, apprenticeships are an excellent choice.