We are ESF Apprenticeships
An Ofsted outstanding apprenticeship training provider delivering innovative apprenticeships in schools.
If your passion is helping young people, our passion is to help you succeed.
Founded by teachers
Our team of teachers understand the challenges of working in schools, and help learners apply their knowledge to make a significant impact.
Ofsted outstanding in all areas
Inspectors praised the outstanding achievements of our apprentices and our exceptional ongoing career guidance.
Read our latest Ofsted report
Learn with the SEND experts
Our partnership with SEND experts across Real Group gives learners access to enhanced knowledge in a growing area of need.
Learn more
Part of
96%
of learners rate our teaching as Good or Outstanding
97%
of our employer partners rate the impact of their apprentice as Good or Outstanding
95%
of learners rate our SEND masterclasses as Good or Excellent
Grow your career in education with apprenticeship pathways
Grow your career in education with apprenticeship pathways
Whether you are a recent school leaver or have years of teaching experience, apprenticeships are a highly effective way to rapidly put new learning into practice.
Access fully funded or low cost training
If you are a school or nursery and want to find out more about accessing your apprenticeship levy click here.
Specialist training in schools
Our programmes combine hands-on experience and professional training to help you grow confidently in your role.
Not just for early-career starters
Join a growing number of headteachers, deputy heads, SENCOs and experienced TAs, advancing their career through apprenticeships.
“The support I’ve had from ESF Apprenticeships has been absolutely incredible – a truly inspiring and uplifting team. Made such a big difference to my TA career, my pupils and my self-belief.”
Some of the schools and trusts we work with
Are you a…
School, MAT or nursery employer?
We’re trusted by hundreds of schools and nurseries to upskill their team or bring new talent into their workforce
School leaver, career changer, or already working in education?
There’s a new way to build your career in education
Explore apprenticeship programmes
What our apprentices say
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“If you get the chance do it”
Kris Cooper
Level 3 Teaching Assistant
“Without ESF I would not be where I am now”
Luke Weston
Level 5 Teaching Assistant
Ready for a masterclass in SEND?
If you choose to study with us you will benefit from enhanced expertise of Educational Psychologists and other SEND experts from our parent company – Real Group.
Real Group is an award-winning training and psychology services provider that has trained thousands of teachers, TAs and SENCOs.
Find out more about the SEND masterclasses (and more) we offer as part of our close collaboration.
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Case Study
Manor Fields Primary School
“The support we’ve had from ESF has been so positive and so worthwhile. They have really gone the extra mile for my staff and care about them as individuals – the impact on staff confidence has been transformative.”
Case Study
Knebworth Primary and Nursery School
“When we were looking for a training provider to support us with upskilling current staff, ESF Apprenticeships seemed the perfect choice! They came highly recommended by other primary schools in the area. It has been so rewarding to see our staff engaging in such a high-quality qualification.”
Case Study
Melbourn Primary School
“I’d definitely recommend the course to other Headteachers. It’s been an excellent way to give staff an opportunity to develop their skills when they’re still in school. We are seeing the benefits every day for our children.”
Latest
News and events
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Celebrating National Teaching Assistants’ Day 2025
It’s that time of year when we come together to recognise, celebrate, and raise awareness of the essential contributions of Teaching Assistants…
Join ESF at the TES SEND Show 2025
We invite you to an insightful session, “Enhancing Inclusive Provision: How to Develop Your SEND Team Using The Growth and Skills Levy,” where we’ll s…
Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Shortlisted for Teach Primary Award 2025
We’re thrilled to announce that our Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant apprenticeship has been shortlisted in the CPD category at the 2025 Teach…