Early years lead practitioner (level 5) – Develop a career in early years education

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Are you someone interested in developing a career in education? Whether you completed a level 2 or 3 Early Years Apprenticeship, are someone already employed in early years education or just have a passion for caring, teaching and developing young children – the Level 5 Early years lead practitioner could be the perfect opportunity for you. In this update, we take a look at the apprenticeship standard and answer the key questions about this programme.

What does the Early years lead practitioner role involve?

The main role is to lead day-to-day practices, be a role model for play-based learning, and oversee the care and development of young children.

Day to day duties revolve around: Promoting children’s health, providing learning opportunities, supporting personal care, advocating for children, ensuring safeguarding compliance, reflective practice, professional development, maintaining safety standards, completing administrative tasks, collaborating with parents, and leading and managing responsibilities effectively.

Where would the role take place?

This particular standard can lend itself to multiple environments, typically you could do a level 5 early years lead practitioner apprenticeships in: nurseries, playgroups, nursery schools, pre-schools, kindergartens, primary schools, hospitals, social care settings, out of school environments and local authority provision.

Given the nature of the role, it is almost certain that the role will take place entirely in person – gaining hands on experience of leading children’s activities in an early years environment. Depending on which training provider delivers the programme, off the job training may be delivered in person or online.

How long does the programme last and how am I assessed?

The Apprenticeship programme itself typically lasts for 24 months, but must be at least 12 months not including End Point Assessment (EPA).

At this point, you’ll enter end point assessment. For the Early years lead practitioner apprenticeship, EPA consists of an observation in the workplace and an interview with the endpoint assessment organisation underpinned by a portfolio of evidence – which you’ll collect during the programme. After end point assessment, you’ll be awarded a grade of Pass, Merit, Distinction or Refer.

If I’m looking for this type of role, how would I apply?

You could apply for this role, like you would for any apprenticeship programme, in 2 ways:

  1. Vacancy Search – you could apply directly for vacancies on the official .gov.uk apprenticeship website here
  2. Contact a Training Provider – click the below button to see a list of training providers who deliver the Level 5 Early years Lead practitioner Apprenticeship, these providers will likely have their own list of vacancies and options for contacting them and applying through their site.

What is a training Provider?

A training provider is the organisation which provides the training for your apprenticeship, this could be a college or other educational institution or a private training provider, which is an organisation set up specifically to deliver apprenticeships and training

Conclusion

To summarise, this level 5 programme is ideal for those searching for apprenticeships in childcare or early years education – providing a platform for hands on learning and progression into a leadership role. The standard forms part of a longer progression route into a career in these areas, following on from the Level 2 Early years practitioner and Level 3 Early years educator standards which, in combination, allow to gain layers of experience at multiple levels of an organisation – developing into a leader in early years education.

I’m coming to the end of my apprenticeship, where can I find advice on EPA?

Complete the form below with your email address to get a link to our EPA Tips guide. This guide was originally created to advise those completing digital apprenticeships, however the content of the guide applies to all Apprenticeship interviews – making it useful for anyone looking for guidance when approaching their EPA interview.

Why You Should Become an Apprentice

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Apprenticeships: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking for a rewarding career with a bright future? Do you want to learn a trade or skill and get paid while you learn? If so, an apprenticeship with ApprenticeTips.com is the perfect opportunity for you.

Apprenticeships provide a valuable pathway to skilled employment. They offer a unique blend of paid on-the-job training, mentorship from experienced professionals, and the opportunity to earn a nationally recognised qualification. This combination of benefits makes apprenticeships an attractive option for individuals seeking to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen field.

Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of trades and industries, from healthcare and construction to engineering and IT. This makes them a viable option for individuals with diverse interests and backgrounds.

Apprentices typically work alongside experienced professionals, learning from their expertise and developing practical skills. They also receive regular training and assessment, ensuring that they are progressing towards their qualification goals.

Upon completion of their apprenticeship, apprentices will earn a nationally recognized qualification, which demonstrates their skills and knowledge to potential employers. This qualification can open up new career opportunities and enable apprentices to advance their careers.

Overall, apprenticeships offer many advantages for individuals seeking to learn a trade or skill and start a career. They provide paid on-the-job training, mentorship from experienced professionals, and the opportunity to earn a nationally recognised qualification. These benefits make apprenticeships a valuable pathway to skilled employment.

ApprenticeTips.com is a leading provider of apprenticeship opportunities in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, construction, engineering, IT, and manufacturing. We partner with top employers to offer high-quality apprenticeships that provide apprentices with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen field.

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a work-based learning program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices work alongside experienced professionals in their chosen field, learning from their expertise and developing practical skills. They also receive regular training and assessment, ensuring that they are progressing towards their qualification goals.

Apprenticeships are typically paid, so apprentices can earn a salary while they learn. This makes them a valuable option for individuals who want to start a career without incurring significant debt.

Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of trades and industries, from healthcare and construction to engineering and IT. This means that there is an apprenticeship opportunity for everyone, regardless of their interests or background.

Upon completion of their apprenticeship, apprentices will earn a nationally recognized qualification, which demonstrates their skills and knowledge to potential employers. This qualification can open up new career opportunities and enable apprentices to advance their careers.

If you are interested in learning a trade or skill and starting a career, an apprenticeship may be the right choice for you.

What are the benefits of apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships offer several valuable benefits, including:

  • Paid on-the-job training: Apprentices earn a salary while they learn, which can help them reduce financial burdens and build a financial foundation.
  • Mentorship from experienced professionals: Apprentices work alongside experienced professionals who can provide guidance, support, and mentorship. This can help apprentices develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen field.
  • Nationally recognised qualification: Many apprenticeships lead to a nationally recognized qualification, which demonstrates apprentices’ skills and knowledge to potential employers. This can give apprentices a competitive edge in the job market.
  • Improved employability: Apprenticeships are highly valued by employers, as they provide a proven track record of skills development and on-the-job experience. This means that apprentices are well-positioned to find good jobs after completing their apprenticeships.
  • Networking opportunities: Apprentices have the opportunity to meet and network with other professionals in their field. This can provide valuable connections and support throughout their careers.

Overall, apprenticeships offer many advantages for individuals seeking to learn a trade or skill and start a career. They provide paid on-the-job training, mentorship from experienced professionals, and the opportunity to earn a nationally recognised qualification. These benefits can make apprenticeships a valuable pathway to skilled employment and a successful career.

What types of apprenticeships are available?

Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of industries, including construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and IT. Some of the most common apprenticeship trades include:

  • Electrician
  • Plumber
  • Carpenter
  • HVAC technician
  • Personal Trainer
  • Welder
  • Machinist
  • Mechanic
  • Nurse
  • Software Developer
  • Web developer
  • Graphic designer
  • Accountant
  • Banker

How to find an apprenticeship

There are a variety of ways to find an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships can be found through the following channels:

  • Job boards: Many job boards list apprenticeship openings, including government-run job boards and industry-specific job boards.
  • Schools and colleges: Many schools and colleges have apprenticeship programs, which can be found on their websites or through their career services departments.
  • Employers: Employers may advertise apprenticeship openings on their websites, through job boards, or other channels, such as social media or trade publications.
  • Trade unions: Trade unions can provide information about apprenticeship opportunities and help apprentices find apprenticeships that match their interests and skills.

In addition to these channels, apprentices can also find opportunities through their networks of family, friends, and former colleagues. Apprentices can also attend apprenticeship fairs and workshops to learn more about apprenticeships and meet potential employers.

Once an apprentice has identified some potential apprenticeship opportunities, they can contact the employer or apprenticeship provider to learn more about the program and apply.

How to apply for an apprenticeship

To apply for an apprenticeship, you will typically need to submit the following:

  • Resume: Your resume should highlight your skills and experience, as well as your interest in the apprenticeship program.
  • Cover letter: Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in the apprenticeship program and why you are a good fit.
  • Application form: The apprenticeship provider may also require you to complete an application form.

You may also be required to take an aptitude test or interview with the employer.

Tips for success as an apprentice

Here are some tips for success as an apprentice:

  • Be reliable and punctual. Employers expect apprentices to be reliable and punctual, as this demonstrates their commitment to the apprenticeship program.
  • Be willing to learn and ask questions. Apprentices are expected to be eager to learn and ask questions. This shows that they are interested in developing their skills and knowledge.
  • Be respectful of your mentor and other employees. Apprentices should be respectful of their mentor and other employees. This shows that they are professional and have good interpersonal skills.
  • Be proactive and take initiative. Apprentices should be proactive and take initiative in their work. This shows that they are motivated and self-driven.
  • Be organised and efficient. Apprentices should be organised and efficient in their work. This shows that they are able to manage their time effectively and complete their tasks on time.
  • Be positive and enthusiastic. Apprentices should be positive and enthusiastic about their work. This shows that they are engaged in the apprenticeship program and are committed to their success.

Following these tips can help you increase your chances of success as an apprentice. Apprenticeships are a great way to learn a trade or skill and start a career.

Additional benefits of apprenticeships

In addition to the benefits listed above, apprenticeships can also offer the following:

  • Financial assistance: Apprentices may be eligible for financial assistance, such as grants and tuition reimbursement.
  • Job placement assistance: Many apprenticeship programs offer job placement assistance to apprentices after they complete their programs.
  • Career advancement opportunities: Apprentices may be able to advance their careers by taking on more responsibility and completing additional training.
  • Personal satisfaction: Apprentices can gain a sense of personal satisfaction from learning a new trade or skill and contributing to their community.

Conclusion

Apprenticeships are a highly effective and efficient way to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to launch a successful career in a trade or skilled vocation. They provide apprentices with paid on-the-job training, mentorship from experienced professionals, and the opportunity to earn a nationally recognized qualification. As a result, apprentices are highly sought-after by employers and enjoy enhanced employability prospects.

If you are interested in learning a new trade or skill, I strongly encourage you to consider becoming an apprentice. It is a valuable investment in your future that will pay dividends for years to come.

ApprenticeTips.com is the perfect partner for your apprenticeship journey. We provide comprehensive support to our apprentices, including:

  • Personalised guidance and support: Our team of apprenticeship experts will help you find the right apprenticeship for your skills and interests, and provide you with support throughout your apprenticeship.
  • Access to a network of employers: We partner with a wide range of top employers to offer our apprentices high-quality apprenticeship opportunities.
  • Online resources and training: We provide our apprentices with access to a variety of online resources and training programs to help them develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

If you are ready to start a rewarding career with a bright future, join an apprenticeship with ApprenticeTips.com today!

For more information on finding the right apprenticeship for you, check out the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education here: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/

Early Years Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship

Early Years Lead Practitioner and child giving each other high five

Are you passionate about working with young children and looking to make meaningful impacts in this field? Then… You are at the right place at the right time! Read More and immerse yourself in the world of an Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship. Don’t wait to embark on this valuable journey, of helping to make a difference in the lives of young children!

 Early Years Practitioner at work with children

What is an Early Years Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a form of work based program which combines hands on work, with the opportunity to train and receive qualifications. This is combined with on the-job-learning enabling apprentices to acquire the knowledge and skills required for this apprenticeship. Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship will be 2 years long including End Point Assessment (EPA) .

Early Years Lead Practitioner and child giving each other high five

Desired Knowledge and Behaviours of Early Years Practitioner apprenticeship

Knowledge

  • Ethical, fair, consistent and impartial, valuing equality and diversity at all times within professional boundaries: This means that you will always act in an ethical and fair manner, treating everyone equally and with respect.
  • Person centred, friendly and approachable, demonstrating caring, empathetic and respectful qualities: Having an approachable attitude towards everyone you work with, showing empathy and respect.
  • Positive and proactive member of the team, being assertive and exercising diplomacy
  • Creative and imaginative, demonstrating curiosity and inquisitiveness in order to be resourceful in all areas, including play and problem solving
  • Flexible and adaptable; responding to children’s spontaneous activities: Having flexible in your approach to working with children, responding to their needs as they arise.
  • Receptive and open to challenge and constructive criticism: Open to constructively to improve your practice.

Behaviour

  • Ethical and rights-based approaches to support the child, listening to the child’s authentic voice within their social and cultural context enabling advocacy for the child and their individual journey, developing high quality childcare environments that are continuously evaluated
  • Learning how children learn and develop from conception to 8 years old, additionally, the typical and atypical neurological, cognitive, social, emotional, behavioural, communication and physical development within the social and cultural context.
  • Learning about factors that can impact a child’s health, well-being and early learning from conception to 8 years old.
  • You’ll learn Local and national child protection and safeguarding policies and procedures. Identify when a child is at risk and how to challenge to ensure they are protected.
  • The importance of social cultural context on a child’s learning and development and how parents, families and carers influence a child’s home learning environment as well as the complexities of family situations.
  • How to stimulate children’s creativity and curiosity and the importance as well as how it enables enquiry based active learning.

Carrying out the specific behaviors and gaining valuable knowledge whilst applying it to your day to day duties in your role will help satisfy a number of competencies.

Overview and Occupational profile

The Level 5 Qualification will allow you to have the opportunity to learn from experienced practitioners and lead day-to-day practice in a range of settings, such as nurseries, schools, hospitals, and social care. Through this, the practitioner will develop skills in being proactive and influential to support others and engage with sector developments. As an apprentice, you will be responsible for supporting the quality of learning and development and leading operational aspects. Lead other practitioners or an aspect or environment such as Communication and Language, Planning and Assessment, and more.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements are set by employers however, what you are required to have can also put you in a good position. Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. It is also mandatory to have a Level 3 Early Years qualifications for Early Years Educator.

Conclusion

In Conclusion, the Level 5 Early years Lead Practitioner will be an excellent starting point for starting a successful journey! Perfect match for proactive, influential practitioners, working directly with children. These highly skilled professionals take an operational lead for the care, learning and development of all young children within their care and lead the practice of others.

Find Out more about Apprenticship Benefits Here!

We hope this guide has been useful in providing details on Early Year Lead Practitioner. If you would like to explore some more Apprenticeships in the UK, Please Visit our Website.

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Education technician Level 3 Apprenticeship

Education Technician
Education Technician (HE assistant technician) apprenticeship
Education Technician

Are you looking at getting into being an Education Technician (HE assistant technician)? This Apprenticeship could be the best way forward for you- and here is why! An Education Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship covers the KSBs in the following subjects

  • Prepare the teaching, learning or research introductory session
  • safely demonstrate to student and staff how to operate simple and complex equipment
  • Collation of data, documentation, and resources such as room usage, inventories of equipment and experiment data.
  • undertake routine – ensure environment remains safe and fit for purpose e.g health and safety inspections and audits.
  • and many more..

Expectations in order start and finish an Education Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship?

This apprenticeship is a 24-month period level 3 apprenticeship excluding the End Point Assessment (EPA). To pass the apprenticeship, you are needed to do 20% Off The Job (OTJ) training e.g learning new skills, training courses, classroom learning and many more. over the duration of the 24-month course you will need to continuously fill in your portfolio- this goes towards your final grade. To enrol in this apprenticeship, you need to pass level 2 maths and English. Once you have completed the apprenticeship, you will receive your grade which will be a pass, distinction or very rarely a fail.

Options after the apprenticeship has done

  • Continue your employment in the industry

Typical jobs title includes,

– Assistant technician – simulation technicians – clinical skills technician

– Junior technician – clinical simulation technicians and many more..

  • Progress in higher level qualifications – charted management institute (CMI) to become a team leader or operations manager.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Education Technician (HE) level 3 apprenticeship, is working with higher education for example universities. Your role would be to provide valuable technical support to academic or health care professionals in learning, teaching, or research. You would be responsible for managing and undertaking routine maintenance of standard and bespoke equipment, stock control and housekeeping to ensure teaching, learning and research environments are and remain fit for purpose. there are numerous options that you could work in for example, applied science, engineering, arts, humanities, environmental science, performing arts and healthcare science. If you want to find more information on this level 3 apprenticeship then click here

Education Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship
Education Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship

Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship

Does the prospect of an apprenticeship interest you, but you aren’t certain what route you want to take or where your skills may best serve you? Find out if a level 2 early years practitioner apprenticeship could be the best fit for your career goals, in this easy to interpret guide.

An Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship is an ideal way to gain the skills and knowledge needed to start a rewarding career working with young children. This apprenticeship provides learners with practical experience working in a range of early years settings, such as nurseries, preschools, and primary schools.

What is an Early Years Practitioner?

An early years practitioner is a professional who works with young children from birth to five years old. They provide support and care as well as help children develop in areas such as language, social interaction, and physical coordination. A level 2 apprenticeship in this field is an excellent way to develop the necessary skills to work in this exciting and rewarding sector.

During the apprenticeship, learners will work with experienced professionals to learn about child development, play, and learning activities, as well as safeguarding and first aid. They will also learn practical skills such as communication, observation, and record-keeping while working with other professionals in a childcare setting.

What does a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship Involve?

The Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship generally takes around 12-18 months to complete. During this period, learners will be fully immersed in the working environment while also attending classroom-based training. The apprenticeship includes practical work in a childcare setting, which is supervised and supported by a qualified early years practitioner.

The apprenticeship includes theoretical learning as well, which includes practical, written and knowledge-based activities. The subjects covered in the apprenticeship include:

– Understanding children’s development and the importance of play.
– Health and Safety in the Early Years setting
– Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
– Supporting children’s speech and language development
– Supporting children’s personal, social and emotional development

Apprentices will also work towards developing their English, Maths, and ICT skills as part of the apprenticeship.

Who is the Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship for?

A Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship is suitable for anyone with a genuine interest in working with young children. Applicants will need to have a minimum of grade C in English and Maths at GCSE level or equivalent, be 16 years or older, and currently working or applying to work in an early years setting.

What Skills do I need to have to excel as an Early Years Practitioner?

Listed below are 5 of the skills that will help you to excel in this role:  

– Communication skills: Early years practitioners need to communicate effectively with parents and colleagues. This involves active listening, giving clear instructions and using appropriate language and tone of voice.
– Observational skills: Being able to observe and understand a child’s behaviour, preferences and needs is crucial for an early years practitioner. Observation helps practitioners to plan activities and provide appropriate support.
– Patience: Children develop at their own pace, so early years practitioners need to be patient and supportive. This means being patient in guiding children through their learning & development, and being able to manage challenging behaviour appropriately.
– Creativity: Creativity is important in planning and organizing age-appropriate activities that stimulate children’s interest, curiosity, and imagination.
– Interpersonal skills: Building positive relationships with children and parents is essential for an early years practitioner. This involves showing empathy, respect and understanding, and being able to work collaboratively with colleagues.

Benefits of a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship

There are several benefits of undertaking an Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship, including:

– Practical experience working in a childcare setting.
– Attainable goals and work-based training.
– A qualification that is valued by employers.
– Opportunities to progress to advanced level qualifications.
– The ability to work with children and make a positive contribution to their development.

Conclusion

A Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship provides participants with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience required to work in a childcare environment. Those who undertake this apprenticeship have opportunities to make a real difference to children’s lives while undergoing a fulfilling and rewarding career. Whether an individual is looking to begin their career in this sector or continue their professional development, this apprenticeship offers an ideal starting point.

If you’re interested in pursuing a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprenticeship, visit here for more information regarding the course.

Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship

Are you looking to kick start your career in Teaching? Then the Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship could be for you.

From learning how to deliver the curriculum to how to properly safeguard students this course will progress you onto your future in Teaching. A Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship will provide you with fully funded, structured training to improve your practice as a teaching assistant and learn valuable skills to help your pupils reach their full potential

What to expect with the apprenticeship

With this apprenticeship, you will learn the ins and outs of what it means to be a teaching assistant. From the day you start you will be involved with teachers and will be working in a professional environment. The professional environment allows apprentices to learn in real situations with real people, this gives the apprentice an advantage early in their career as they get used to dealing with younger students and begin to understand how to support the teacher and other students. You will also contribute to planning, class activities and team meetings.

A teaching assistant talking to primary school students

Areas you will cover within the apprenticeship include:

Communication and teamwork.

  • Work closely with teachers
  • Deliver/lead small group teaching
  • Support pupils well-being

Using technology.

  • Use school computer systems including specialist software
  • Ensure pupils use technology safely
  • Use a range of skills including open questioning skills to enable pupils to engage in learning

Developing strategies.

  • Use appropriate vocabulary to ensure pupils understanding
  • Encourage positive, effective, nurturing and safe learning environment

Understanding how pupils learn and develop

  • recognise different stages of child development through school

Keeping children safe in education

  • understand current statutory guidance
  • Understand the importance of first aid procedures
  • Broad knowledge of health and safety policy

Course Details

The duration of this course is typically 18 months (can vary slightly), To enrol on the course you will need 5 GCSE’s at a grade 4 or higher. These must include Maths and English. Some employers might require you to have a L2 qualification in the subject area to display knowledge and general competency. This course provides learners with a foundation to progress onto higher level career paths in the education sector. You will need to be enrolled as a teaching assistant at a school and have the support of the school before applying. The course is

Future pathways after your apprenticeship

The natural progression from this course is to either move into a teaching assistant position within the workplace or to move onto a higher level qualification e.g. L4 teaching assistant. This course offers a solid foundation into any area of school education. Some of the rolls that are open to a L3 Teaching assistant are, teaching assistant in primary schools, teaching assistant in a nursery.

Benefits and skills

Throughout this apprenticeship you will build up a wide range of transferable skills such as: Communication, support, deadline management, problem solving and more. Along with skills the apprenticeship will give you a nationally recognised Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship Training focused on supporting pupil progress and development aligned to the curriculum.

Conclusion

The level 3 Teaching assistant apprenticeship is perfect for anyone wanting to start their journey into education. From the in school placement to the 18 months of professional training in teaching, wellbeing, support and more. This qualification is the stepping stone to further education or a position as a Teaching assistant full time.

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Academic Professional Apprenticeship- Level 7

alt= Mature students in classroom
Why wait? Take your career the next step today!

Have you just finished your postgraduate academic training and are looking for the best way to challenge and develop your professional capabilities? Let me take you through an outline of the Level 7 Academic Professional apprenticeship that would be your best option to take your career to the next step..

What is an Academic Professional?

The Academic Professional Apprenticeship (Level 7) entails extensive training and work experience in the core elements and in a specialist route of choice. The options to specialize in are either teaching or research. At entry point, individuals have foundation expertise in a particular subject discipline, but still require the training explained below to acquire full competency as an Academic Professional.

Academic Professionals work within the higher education sector, delivering higher education teaching and undertaking research to support the development of knowledge within their discipline. They can work in either Universities, Colleges or the Private sector, and their role is to develop and share knowledge with key stakeholders around them. Through this, they support the advancement of the discipline and resolution of major challenges.

Does this sound like the end goal you want to reach? Continue reading to find out more about the knowledge, skills that are expected of a likely candidate, as well as further detail about the course itself.

The Academic Professional will undertake the core role but will also choose one specialist path to go down- teaching and supporting learning, or undertaking research:

Specialism 1: Teaching

They specialize in teaching and the support of student learning at undergraduate, post graduate taught and research levels. Play a leading role in the development of current learning and teaching practice, pedagogical and assessment methodologies, advanced skill in supporting learning for diverse groups of learners (including those with disabilities). Delivery of high level of information literacy and the application of technologies in support of learning, promotion of independent learning skills and other teaching techniques.

Going down this route will mean contributing to changes of practice by developing innovative forms of teaching with students working towards higher-level learning at levels 4 to 8 in the Framework for HE Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Specialism 2: Research

Individuals choosing to specialize in research will have the capacity to operate as a principal investigator. Responsibilities include competing for external funding, managing research projects and budgets and creating research outputs. They will specialize in research activities, often within a research team addressing major challenges facing the world, or those of public or private funders and commissioners of research.

Going down this route will mean playing a lead role in wider research management, oversight and development of research-related funding, collaboration with external organizations and dissemination or research outputs. These competencies reach beyond the original contribution to knowledge in a defined field, which is the prime focus of the research degree held by most Academic Professionals.

Required knowledge, skills & behaviours

There are a variety of key skills and knowledge required for this role, which may seem daunting, however the likely candidate considering this apprenticeship will already have strong knowledge of most of these areas as well as a strong skill base!

Knowledge:

  • teaching, assessment and feedback methods used in higher education to support learning and achievement
  • understanding how students learn and how to adapt delivery methods to support needs’
  • how to conduct research within your own and related disciplines
  • regulatory, administrative, financial, planning procedures, risk management, quality assurance and quality enhancement, and how they are related to their role in higher education
  • methods for evaluating the effectiveness of academic activities

Skills:

  • deliver high quality teaching using lectures, tutorials, practicals or seminars
  • use varying teaching skills depending on the environment and needs
  • develop research questions and hypotheses
  • critical thinking
  • supervise and mentor students
  • communicate orally, write collaboratively and effectively to manage people, processes or teams

Values and Behaviours:

  • ethical, sustainable and inclusive practices and equality of opportunity to a professional standard
  • the desire to continuously develop their knowledge and insight (in relation to career management, responsiveness to opportunities, networking, etc)
  • the need to commit to CPD in relation to relevant contemporary issues (e.g. student employability)
  • the need to be enthusiastic, self-confident, self-reflective to operate effectively

Find out more about core skills in the Academic industry here: 52 Examples of Academic Skills – Simplicable

Further details on this apprenticeship

Entry requirements/ qualifications

Each employer will set their own specific entry requirements and this will likely be a postgraduate degree level (level 7) qualification in an area of disciplinary specialism.

Level 2 Maths & English are required prior to the end-point assesment. For those with an education, health and care plan or legacy statement, the Maths & English requirement is Entry level 3 and British Sign Language qualification are an alternative to English qualifications (if this is their primary language).

Professional Body Recognition

The Apprenticeship Standard and Assessment Plan are aligned to the current editions of the Higher Education Academy UK Professional Standards Framework (UK-PSF) and the Vitae Researcher Development Framework. Successful candidates that meet the requirements will be eligible for professional recognition as a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Duration

18-24 months

Conclusion

The Academic Professional course is a great option for those who have considerable expertise in a particular subject discipline, indicated most likely by successful completion of the postgraduate level 7 or 8 qualification, but are in need of the above substantial training to acquire the full title of an Academic Professional. This apprenticeship will give you the chance to build on those key professional skills and will open up endless opportunities. In addition, you will meet peers around you that share the same passion for education and development.

Take a look through the blogs on our website to find out more about what we offer, how we can help and to hear tips, advice and experiences shared by likeminded individuals. Follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn to stay up-to-date with the latest posts, or get in touch below for more information!