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Apprenticeships
OTSA is working with Best Practice Network to offer a range of apprenticeship professional development opportunities, funded by the Apprenticeship Levy.
Apprenticeships provide an excellent way for schools to either recruit fresh talent or enhance the skills of their current staff. A diverse range of apprenticeships are available ranging from level 2 (GCSE) to level 6/7 (degree and postgraduate degree level). Apprentices are employed by the school, acquiring on-the-job training that familiarises them with the school environment. Additionally they complete off-the-job training to learn new knowledge, skills and behaviours for their role. Apprenticeships can be used to develop talent as part of a People and Talent Strategy and also for Continued Professional Development.
Early Years Practitioner Level 2
The EYP Level 2 apprenticeship is a work-based programme completed over 12-14 months. It can be funded by the Apprenticeship Levy or co-funded by your employer and the Government. During this programme, you will gain hands-on experience in a professional setting while studying for your qualification through Off-the-Job training.
Early Years Educator Apprenticeship Level 3
The EYE Level 3 apprenticeship is a work-based programme completed over 15-18 months. On successful completion, you will be awarded the Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification and achieve full and relevant status inline with the EYFS. During this programme, you will gain hands-on experience in a professional setting while studying for your qualification through Off-the-Job training.
Early Years Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship Level 5
The EYLP Level 5 apprenticeship is a work-based programme completed over 18-24 months. During this programme, you will gain hands-on experience in a professional setting, furthering your knowledge on child development and leading practice.
Teaching Assistant Level 3
The Teaching Assistant Level 3 programme offers a flexible approach to learning for both the school and learner, whereby all learners will gain the fundamental knowledge and develop the skills required to support teachers to enhance pupil learning either in groups or individually, ensuring pupils understand the work set, know their learning objectives and stay on task in order to make progress.
You will learn how to promote self-belief, social inclusion and a high self-esteem. Learning gained will include a greater knowledge and understanding of whole class teaching that will support potential progression to Higher Level Teaching Assistant status. Learners will also be able to personalise their pathways based on their choice of specialist area(s).
SEND Specialism
Our Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship with SEND pathway equips you with essential knowledge and skills to support children with SEND. This programme is perfect for those who wish to specialise in this area of teaching, improving your career opportunities and making a meaningful impact in education.
Specialist Teaching Assistant Level 5
The Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Level 5 is a 18-month long apprenticeship that prepares individuals to support learners across various educational settings, including primary, secondary, special schools, and further education institutions.
Specialist teaching assistants work with students of all ages, often focusing on special educational needs (SEND), social and emotional well-being, or specific curriculum areas like EAL, forest schools, or music education. The role involves planning, implementing, and adapting learning activities, while drawing on research and reflective practice.
Specialist teaching assistants build relationships with learners, families, and professionals, contributing to the development of inclusive, supportive learning environments. They are responsible for supporting both individual and group learning, ensuring student safety, and assisting with assessment and evaluation processes. Additionally, they may train and support colleagues in their specialist area.
