The Apprenticeship Levy
The Apprenticeship Levy is a government initiative designed to fund apprenticeship training in England. It is paid by employers with an annual payroll of over £3 million, which includes many schools, academy trusts and local authorities.
Levy payments go into a digital account that schools can use to fund apprenticeship training for both new and existing staff.
How the levy works for Schools & MATs
Levy-Paying
- Annual payroll over £3m
- Pay 0.5% of wage bill via PAYE
- Funds +10% gov top-up
- Funds expire after 24 months
- Use to upskill new or existing staff
Non-Levy Paying
- Annual payroll under £3m
- Pay 5% of training cost
- Government funds remaining 95%
- If apprentice under 22 - 100% funded
- No levy account required
What can you fund?
Apprenticeships Available
to Schools & MATs Through Academize
Routes to Leadership & Organisational Excellence
Frequently asked questions
Who are these apprenticeships for?
They are designed for staff already working in your school. This could include teaching assistants, business managers, support staff and more. Apprenticeships give them the chance to upskill and grow into the next generation of teachers and leaders.
Do staff need a degree?
No. We have apprenticeship routes for staff with degrees and for those without.
What if they do not want to be a teacher?
That is absolutely fine. We also offer non-teaching pathways such as Coaching and Operations Management to help staff develop in their current roles.
How are they funded?
Training is fully funded through your Apprenticeship Levy. If your school does not pay into the levy, the government covers 95% of the cost.
Will staff need time away from school?
Training is mainly school-based and supported by flexible online study, so it is designed to fit around their existing role.
Can we grow our own teachers?
Yes. Our teaching apprenticeships allow you to train and retain talented staff, which can also help reduce recruitment costs.
Are there SEND options?
Yes. We offer specialist routes in SEND, Wellbeing and Curriculum.
How long do apprenticeships take?
It depends on the route. Postgraduate options can take as little as 9 months, while a Teacher Degree Apprenticeship can take up to 3 years.
What are the entry requirements?
Most apprenticeships require GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above in English and maths (and science for primary teaching). Postgraduate routes usually require a degree.
How do we apply?
Your school simply nominates the candidate and confirms support. We then guide you through the rest of the process.
Contact us
If you would like more information about the Apprenticeship Levy, contact us today!
