Teaching while learning: growth, balance, and opportunity through apprenticeship

Kathleen Robinson began our Teacher Degree Apprenticeship in September 2025, part of our first cohort. She is based at a special needs community school for young people with complex needs and autistic spectrum disorders aged between 5 and 16 in Wiltshire, England. Here she shares her reflections on her experience of the programme so far and the opportunity it has offered her.

Balancing commitment with opportunity

Joining a teacher degree apprenticeship has been one of the most important and rewarding decisions I have made. As someone who works full time and has two children, I knew that taking on a course alongside my existing responsibilities would be a challenge. There have certainly been times when balancing work, family life, and study has required careful organisation and commitment, but the experience so far has been incredibly positive and worthwhile. Rather than feeling overwhelmed, I have felt motivated by the opportunities the course has opened up for me and encouraged by the support I have received throughout.

Learning in practice: the value of working while studying

One of the biggest advantages of the apprenticeship route is that it allows me to continue working while developing professionally. Being able to learn and apply new knowledge directly within my role has made the experience especially meaningful. I currently work in SEND, and it has been really encouraging to feel that my background and experience in this area are recognised and valued within the course. SEND is such an important part of education, and it has been reassuring to see that this perspective is not only acknowledged but seen as a strength. This has helped me feel more confident in my contribution and has reinforced that the skills and understanding I already bring are relevant and worthwhile.

Building confidence and professional understanding

So far, I have really enjoyed the course. It has already helped me to develop both my knowledge and my practical experience. I feel that I am growing in confidence and gaining a deeper understanding of teaching, learning, and the wider responsibilities of the profession. The course has encouraged me to reflect on my practice, think more critically, and consider how I can continue to improve in order to support pupils effectively. It has also introduced me to new ideas and approaches that I can use within my work, which has been both interesting and rewarding.

Support that makes a difference

The support I have received has made a huge difference to my experience. My university lead mentor has been extremely supportive and helpful throughout. Knowing that there is someone available to guide me, answer questions, and offer encouragement has been invaluable. Their support has made the course feel manageable, even at busy times, and has given me reassurance when I have needed it most. I have also been very fortunate in having a wonderful visiting assessor, whose input has been positive, encouraging, and professional. Their visits have helped me to feel seen and supported in my journey, and I have appreciated the constructive feedback and understanding approach they bring.

Looking ahead: growth, pride, and possibility

Overall, this Teacher Degree Apprenticeship: Primary Education has been a fantastic opportunity. It has opened up new possibilities for my future and given me the chance to grow both personally and professionally. Despite the demands of balancing full-time work, study, and family life, I have found the experience deeply rewarding. I feel proud of how far I have come already and excited about where this pathway may lead. Most importantly, I feel supported, valued, and inspired to continue developing as an educator.