Castle Wood School, based in Coventry, is a broad-spectrum special school supporting children aged 3 to 11 with a range of complex learning needs. The school’s ethos of “Together, children first” reflects its commitment to innovative learning and holistic development — values that align closely with those of Heart of England Training (HOET).
Through a successful partnership with HOET, Castle Wood has welcomed both Teaching Assistant and School Business Professional apprentices. These programmes have helped the school strengthen its workforce, nurture talent, and provide meaningful career pathways within a special educational needs (SEN) setting.
Why Apprenticeships Work for Special Needs Schools
Special schools like Castle Wood require staff who not only have strong practical skills but also empathy, patience, and the ability to respond to the individual needs of pupils. Suzanne Kavanagh, representing the school, shared that apprenticeships have proven an ideal way to cultivate these attributes from the ground up.
“We chose to take on apprentices to support the training of educationalists in the development of teaching children with SEND. We value the structure of the apprenticeship from HOET and feel that, together with the input from Castle Wood, a strong teaching assistant emerges at the end of their apprenticeship.”
By combining structured external learning from HOET with hands-on experience in the classroom, apprentices gain confidence, consistency, and a clear understanding of the routines and expectations within a special school environment. This dual approach supports both immediate classroom needs and long-term professional growth.
Building Skilled, Committed Teams
For Castle Wood, the benefits of apprenticeships have extended beyond individual learners. Suzanne explained that the school has been able to embed new staff effectively into its culture and processes, ensuring that each apprentice is not just trained but genuinely prepared to contribute.
“We have been able to train apprentices in the processes, routines and procedures of Castle Wood. Many have sought permanent employment as a Teaching Assistant at Castle Wood, enhancing staff knowledge and skills with their learning.”
This model creates a self-sustaining talent pipeline — developing loyal, skilled employees who understand the unique needs of the school and its pupils. It also helps with continuity, a key factor in maintaining stability and trust for children with SEND.
Apprenticeships Beyond the Classroom
Alongside Teaching Assistant apprenticeships, Castle Wood has also benefited from hosting School Business Professional apprentices. These roles support the operational side of education, managing finance, HR, and administrative processes — freeing up senior staff to focus on teaching and leadership priorities.
This balanced approach highlights how apprenticeships can support every level of a special school’s operations, from direct classroom assistance to behind-the-scenes management.
A Partnership Built on Trust and Shared Values
Suzanne credits much of the school’s success with apprenticeships to the quality of partnership with HOET.
“The relationship between HOET and Castle Wood is strong and based on similar values. We have forged a relationship built on trust, with a desire to ensure our apprentices receive the best support possible.”
She went on to highlight two members of the HOET team for their continued professionalism and support.
“I would like to mention two, please – Heidi Johnson and Claire Bailey. We have forged a relationship built on trust, with a desire to ensure our apprentices receive the best support possible. Communication with Claire and Heidi is excellent – friendly, relevant and always professional.”
This personal and responsive approach from HOET ensures that apprentices — and the schools that support them — feel confident, informed, and valued throughout their journey.
Shaping the Future of SEND Education
Castle Wood School’s experience demonstrates the transformative impact apprenticeships can have in a special needs setting. Through tailored training, consistent communication, and a shared commitment to high standards, Heart of England Training helps schools like Castle Wood build the next generation of dedicated educational professionals.
For other SEN schools considering apprenticeships, Castle Wood’s story is proof that with the right support, apprenticeships can provide not just staff development — but a lasting legacy of care, confidence, and quality education.
