“Student teachers are overwhelmingly positive about all aspects of their training with Best Practice Network. They know that they will get the support they need to succeed in their training sessions as well as on placement or within the workplace."

Ofsted | May 2026 

 Who Should Apply? 

The Learning and Skills Teacher Apprenticeship is ideal for individuals currently teaching or training learners within Further Education and Skills settings.

This programme is suitable for:
  • Further Education lecturers
  • Vocational trainers
  • Skills coaches
  • Apprenticeship trainers
  • Adult learning practitioners
  • SEND specialists in Further Education
  • Workplace trainers seeking a recognised teaching qualification

 Entry Requirements

To apply for this programme, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be employed in a suitable Further Education, Adult Learning or Skills setting.
  • Be delivering teaching, training or assessment as part of your role.
  • Hold GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4/C or above, or Functional Skills Level 2 equivalent.
  • Have the right to work and study in the UK.
  • Meet apprenticeship funding eligibility requirements.
  • Hold a qualification at Level 3 or above in the subject, vocational area, or curriculum specialism you teach or train.

No Degree Required

Unlike many teacher training programmes, applicants do not need to hold a bachelor's degree to join the Learning and Skills Teacher Apprenticeship. However, applicants should have relevant occupational expertise within their subject or vocational area. 

Applicants Considering QTLS

Successful completion of the Learning and Skills Teacher Apprenticeship may support progression towards applying for QTLS status, subject to the requirements of the Society for Education and Training.

Best Practice Network does not deliver a QTLS course or award QTLS status directly.

Apprentices who wish to apply for Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status after completion should normally hold a Level 3 or above qualification within their subject or vocational area.
QTLS is applied for independently through the Education and Training Foundation and is not awarded as part of the apprenticeship itself.

 How Can Is The Apprenticeship Funded? 

This programme is funded through the Growth & Skills Levy.

For Apprentices

There are no tuition fees to pay.

For Employers

Eligible employers can use their Growth and Skills Levy contributions to fund the programme, supporting workforce development while improving teaching quality across their organisation.

 How Is The Apprenticeship Delivered? 

The apprenticeship is delivered through a blend of:

  • Live online training sessions
  • Independent study
  • Workplace-based learning
  • Practical teaching observations
  • One-to-one tutor support
  • Regular progress reviews
Throughout the programme, apprentices remain in employment and apply their learning directly within their teaching practice.

Support Throughout Your Journey

Every apprentice benefits from:
  • A dedicated apprenticeship tutor
  • Regular workplace reviews
  • Support from an employer mentor
  • Access to our online learning platform
  • Networking opportunities with other practitioners nationwide

 What Will I Learn During The Apprenticeship? 

The curriculum is designed to develop confident, reflective and effective Further Education teachers.

You will explore:

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

  • Planning effective teaching sessions
  • Delivering engaging learning experiences
  • Assessment and feedback strategies
  • Supporting learner progress

Inclusive Practice

  • Adaptive teaching
  • SEND and additional learning needs
  • Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion
  • Creating supportive learning environments

Professional Practice

  • Reflective teaching
  • Evidence-informed practice
  • Safeguarding responsibilities
  • Professional behaviours

Curriculum and Subject Expertise

  • Curriculum planning
  • Developing subject-specific teaching approaches
  • Supporting progression and achievement
  • Meeting employer and sector needs

 

Meet the team! 

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