The two-year course, delivered through online blended learning, offers teaching assistants, support assistants and learning mentors the opportunity to develop their skills while continuing to work in their current education setting, and apply their learning. With pathways in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), social, emotional and mental health (SEMH), and curriculum support, the course is designed to address key skills gaps identified in schools across England.  

A recent NCFE workforce report shows that a significant number of teaching assistants are thinking of changing careers, as many lack access to funded, recognised professional qualifications or clear progression routes. The Department for Education (DfE) and school leadership organisations have emphasised the need for specialist training in areas such as neurodiversity, trauma-informed practice and literacy support — areas the new Leeds Trinity apprenticeship is designed to cover. 

The apprenticeship structure allows learners to apply theory directly to their work, with assessments including case studies, research projects and reflective practice based on real pupil support.  

At the end of the two-year apprenticeship, apprentices have the option to complete an additional top-up year, enabling them to obtain a full BA (Hons) degree. This provides an excellent opportunity for those wishing to further their education and career in the field, with a seamless transition from the foundation degree to a full degree qualification. 

Mike Dessington, Head of School of Education and Childhood at Leeds Trinity University said the course has been designed in direct response to the growing demand across the education sector for highly skilled support professionals who can make an immediate impact in the classroom.  

“Our aim in creating this apprenticeship was to design a programme that genuinely reflects what schools need right now: practitioners who are knowledgeable, adaptable, and able to support diverse learners effectively,” he explained. “With expert lecturers, strong employer partnerships, and a curriculum shaped by sector priorities, Leeds Trinity University provides an exceptional environment for developing the reflective, practice-informed professionals schools need today.” 

Leeds Trinity University was one of four training providers to take part in a pilot scheme run by the National Society for Education and the Church of England, to offer the Specialist Teaching Assistant Degree Apprenticeship to a select number of participants. Following the success of the pilot scheme, recruitment for a full cohort is now underway, with the course starting in September 2026. Apprentices enrolled on the pilot have described the course as “thoughtfully designed”, allowing them to become “reflective practitioners with a clear commitment to empowering others”. 

Aligned with Leeds Trinity’s reputation for teaching excellence and its commitment to applied learning, the course offers live virtual lectures, guest speakers, interactive workshops, access to trained tutors, and opportunities for progression to further study. Applications are now open, and more details can be found on the University website.