New for 2026 — School Improvement Programme: a levy-funded Level 6 route for improvement leaders. Find out more

National College of Education
Back to learner resources
On programme· 6 min read

What is expected of you as an apprentice

An apprenticeship is not something that happens to you. It is something you take part in. This guide sets out the responsibilities you own as a learner, so that you can protect your progress and make the most of the investment your employer and NCE are making in you.

Two education professionals discussing apprenticeship responsibilities

Engage fully with your programme

Communicate openly and early

If something changes in your workplace, if you are struggling with content, or if you are worried about a deadline, tell your mentor. NCE has support in place for almost every situation you can imagine, but only if we know it is happening. Silence is the one thing that puts programmes at risk.

Protect your off-the-job time

Your employer has agreed to release you for at least six hours of learning each week. It is your job, alongside your line manager, to make sure that time is actually taken and logged honestly on the NCE platform.

Apply what you learn

The point of an apprenticeship is impact. You are expected to take new ideas out of the workshop and into the classroom, corridor or council meeting, then reflect on what happened. Your portfolio and your end-point assessment are built from those real examples.

Uphold safeguarding and professional standards

Working in education carries responsibilities to children, young people and vulnerable adults. Follow your setting's safeguarding policy, work within your professional code, and raise concerns through the correct channels. If you ever feel unsure, ask.

Own your growth

The apprentices who thrive with NCE treat their programme as their own professional development, not a task list handed to them. Set your own goals with your mentor, seek out feedback, and keep asking the question that great educators never stop asking: how could this be even better?

Ready to take the next step?

Register your interest in an NCE apprenticeship.

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.

Register your interest

Keep reading

All resources

Need help or advice?

We're happy to help. Get in touch with our team. Real people, real answers, no pressure.

Contact us