Programmes and Courses

What is it?

Effective use of AI in education is not about replacing people, but about enhancing what can be done (human capability) through thoughtful, ethical and purposeful use. Implementing effective use of AI should help us to improve the experience of both students and adults across our organisation.

Designed in alignment with Apex’s co-created People Vision, placing collaboration, empowerment and shared growth at the heart of our learning.

Suitable for?

None teaching and teaching staff – from novices to AI experts. From the sceptical to the AI lovers! An opportunity for participants to challenge preconceptions and embrace the potential.

Places will be limited

Application Process

1. Application via MS form
2. Application window opens: July 6th 2026. Closing date for applications: Friday 17th June 2026

The role of a middle leader is pivotal in any school, and one of the most important aspects of your work is how you lead initiatives and develop the individuals who stand in front of your young people every day. Through developing your ability to guide and improve the practice of those you work with, you will help the children in your school achieve their potential.

What is it?

• A four part course to give colleagues early insights into leadership as part of their career progression planning.
• The course will balance leadership theory, practical tips and deliberate practice to support both your development of knowledge, and application skills through scenario-based learning through deliberate practice with peers and expert Apex facilitators and external leaders.

Intended Outcomes?

• Provide the foundational knowledge for you before progression onto NPQ courses.
• Preparation for applying for Middle Leadership roles.
• Help you identify, understand and impact on the outcomes and experiences of a broader range of pupils in your setting.
• Support learning and development through networking and collaboration across Trust.

Suitable for?

• Teachers who have recently completed their ECTE training
• Teachers aspiring for career progression

Application Process

1. Application via MS form
2. Places will be limited
3. Application window opens: June 2026. Notification via Apex Digest.
4. Closing date for applications: Monday 29th June 2026

What is it?

• The programme provides a structured opportunity for staff to shadow colleagues to gain insight into roles across contrasting and diverse Apex school settings.
• Providing opportunities for staff to explore areas for their professional growth through observation, discussion and experience.

Intended Outcomes?

• Gain insight into roles and responsibilities across Trust settings
• Reflect and learn from the (contextual) experiences of colleagues
• Observe staff and teams operationally
• Bridge the gap between performance conversations and practical experience  
• Explore possible career opportunities and next steps.
• Strengthen collaborative relationships with colleagues across Trust

Suitable for?

Teaching and None Teaching Staff

Application Process

1. Application via MS form and letter of application.
2. Places will be limited
3. Application window opens: June 2026. Notification via Apex Digest.
4. Closing date for applications: Monday 29th June 2026

Why study an NPQ?

National Professional Qualifications (NPQs) are DfE-accredited, evidence-informed development opportunities for teachers and school leaders across England.

They support colleagues at every stage of their career to build specialist expertise and leadership skills together. Through this shared learning, we strengthen classroom practice and improve outcomes for every learner and community we serve.

At Apex Collaborative Trust, we actively encourage colleagues to engage with NPQs as part of their professional journey, recognising the value they bring to both individual growth and our collective strength as one trust. Our workforce engagement with NPQs also reflects our commitment to high standards and creating a great place to work—where every colleague is supported to develop and succeed.

Our chosen NPQ programme providers:

Which NPQ Qualification?

We encourage colleagues to explore the range of specialist and leadership NPQs available, providing flexible opportunities to support professional growth, develop expertise, and contribute to our shared success as one trust:

The NPQ application process for Apex colleagues

Following a supportive discussion with colleagues’ line managers, and with the agreement of Headteachers, colleagues can begin the NPQ application process.

This is a three-part process:

1. School CPD leads and Headteachers must have agreed to the completion of an NPQ application.
2. Colleagues to complete an NPQ application confirmation to confirm professional readiness, support and eligibility. This form also supports our approach to talent development, succession planning; creating clear, inclusive pathways for growth and progression for all colleagues.
3. Colleagues to submit an application directly to their chosen NPQ provider.