Which companies offer fully funded primary teaching apprenticeship programmes?

Who offers primary teaching apprenticeships?

Primary teaching apprenticeships are typically offered by:

• Academy trusts that employ apprentices within their schools

• Local authority school partnerships

• Universities that provide the academic element of the programme

The employer (usually a trust or school) provides your placement, salary, and day-to-day training, while the university delivers the degree and academic content.

This partnership model ensures that training is both practical and academically recognised.

Are primary teaching apprenticeships fully funded?

Yes. Primary Teaching Degree Apprenticeships are fully funded through the government’s apprenticeship levy.

This means:

• You do not pay tuition fees

• Your training is funded by the government and employer

• You earn a salary throughout the programme

For many people, this removes the financial barrier associated with traditional university routes into teaching.

What should you look for in a programme?

Not all apprenticeship providers offer the same experience. When comparing programmes, it’s worth considering:

• The level of in-school support and mentoring

• The structure of training and study time

• Opportunities for placements in different schools

• Clear progression routes after qualification

• The salary offered during training

A well-structured programme should give you both strong classroom experience and consistent academic support.

Fully funded primary teaching apprenticeship with Catalyst Academies Trust

Catalyst Academies Trust offers a fully funded Primary Teaching Degree Apprenticeship in Essex, delivered in partnership with Brighton University.

This is a 36-month programme where you are employed within one of our primary schools in Thurrock, including Grays, South Ockendon and Aveley. Apprentices earn £24,000 per year, with no tuition fees to pay.

The programme includes:

• Monday to Thursday in school, building practical teaching experience

• University-directed study every Friday, with 75% delivered online and 25% face to face

• Three weeks of university-based training in Brighton each year

• Dedicated support from a mentor, university tutor visits and a Trust ITT manager

Over the course of the apprenticeship, you will:

• Gain a BA in Primary Education

• Achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

• Complete a PGCE qualification

Teaching responsibility increases gradually, allowing you to develop confidence and capability in the classroom over time.

Entry requirements include:

• Aged 18 or over

• Grade 4 or equivalent in GCSE English, Mathematics and Science

• Minimum Grade C or above in three A levels (candidates with lower grades will still be considered if they have relevant school experience) 

• Applicants who gain an equivalency using the A Star equivalency test will be considered

• Applicants with approved BTEC courses can apply

The programme is also suitable for career changers and those already working in schools with a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification.

Why choose a fully funded apprenticeship route?

A fully funded apprenticeship offers several advantages:

• No student debt from tuition fees

• A consistent salary while training

• Long-term classroom experience

• A structured, supported route into teaching

It allows you to build your career from day one, rather than waiting until after university to enter the classroom.

Taking the next step

Fully funded primary teaching apprenticeships are offered by academy trusts, schools, and university partnerships across the UK. They provide a practical, financially accessible route into teaching.

If you are looking to train in Essex, the Primary Teaching Degree Apprenticeship with Catalyst Academies Trust offers a fully funded, structured pathway into primary teaching, combining employment, academic study, and real classroom experience.