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The National College of Education is a training provider, but the work we do is closer to coaching than teaching. This guide sets out every kind of support that comes with your apprenticeship so that you know exactly what is available.
Every learner is paired with a professional learning mentor (PLM) who works with you throughout your programme. Your mentor runs your progress reviews, helps you plan your off-the-job learning, gives you formative feedback on your portfolio and is your first point of contact for anything that is not working. You can expect a scheduled coaching conversation at least every four to six weeks, and quicker replies in between.
Your live sessions and modules are led by tutors who have worked in the roles they teach. Whether you are on a Teaching Assistant, Early Years, Specialist TA or Leadership pathway, the person on the other end of the webinar has stood in a classroom, run a nursery room or led a team through a period of real change.
If you have a diagnosed additional learning need, a physical or mental health condition, or any personal circumstance that affects how you learn, tell us during onboarding. We will build a reasonable adjustment plan with you covering session delivery, assignment format, extra time, or any assistive technology you need.
As well as the day-to-day encouragement from your mentor, you have access to independent wellbeing support through our partner networks and signposting to services such as Education Support and the Samaritans. If you are affected by anything you experience in your workplace, we will help you find the right person to talk to.
In the final months of your apprenticeship, your mentor and tutor run dedicated gateway and end-point assessment sessions. You will complete mock assessments, receive detailed feedback, and only be put through to the assessment organisation when we are all confident you are ready.
Your mentors contact details are in the welcome pack you receive at enrolment. You can also reach the wider NCE learner team through the messaging tools in your learning platform, or by emailing our learner support inbox during working hours.
Ready to take the next step?
Tell us a little about your role and the sector you work in. A member of our learner team will be in touch with the pathways that fit you best.
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