How a coaching apprenticeship is empowering senior leaders to better support their teams

Coaching has the power to unlock potential and build confidence. That’s why we’re proud to offer our inhouse coaching apprenticeship via Harris Institute, a programme designed to equip our staff with the skills and knowledge they need to inspire others and drive positive change. 

The Coaching Apprenticeship is a 15-month programme designed to develop self-awareness, confidence, and trust within a professional environment. We offer this programme to staff at all levels within the Harris Federation but it is usually of particular interest to those keen to develop leadership skills. 

Why coaching matters

Coaching is more than just a leadership tool; it’s a powerful way to inspire and support others. In such a fast-paced sector as education, coaching provides a moment to pause, to reflect, to ask questions, and to explore solutions collaboratively. 

When coaching becomes part of a workplace’s culture, the benefits extend far beyond that individual relationship. 

Coaching can promote staff retention and is a safe space for problem solving outside of the hierarchy of school-based line management. The coaching apprenticeship gives the participants the skills to create a more collaborative and supportive working environment. 

The importance of coaching within education

Teachers and support staff in education face immense pressure, from managing diverse student needs to navigating changing curriculums and policies. Coaching provides the opportunity to build resilience and clarity in their roles. 

Effective leadership is essential in education, and coaching plays a key role in nurturing the next generation of school leaders. Whether it’s helping a teacher transition into a leadership role or supporting experienced leaders in managing their teams, coaching provides the tools to navigate the complexities of working in a school environment. 

The demands of working in education can lead to burnout and stress, making wellbeing a top priority. Coaching offers a safe space to process their emotions, explore solutions, and set boundaries to protect their mental health. 

When educators are more confident and supported, they can create a more positive and engaging learning environment for their students. Coaching enables teachers to reflect on their methods, identify areas for improvement, and implement new strategies to enhance teaching quality and student outcomes. 

The success of our coaching apprenticeship

Now in its third cohort, our coaching apprenticeship continues to have a profound impact on staff and senior leaders, transforming the way that they support and empower their teams. 

For many participants, the programme goes beyond developing coaching skills, it reshapes their approach to leadership to build a culture of reflection and growth within their academies.

 “I came in with the intention of being able to have highly effective conversations with people, but through this experience it became something far more than that”, shared Nadim, Head of Science at Harris Academy Chafford Hundred. “I found myself becoming far more conscious of not just when but also how to actively listen. It has absolutely transformed my relationship with those inside and outside of work”. 

Similarly, Jordan, Head of Academy at Harris Primary Academy Shortlands described how the apprenticeship has strengthened his leadership, “It has deepened my understanding of effective coaching techniques, including the realisation that I don’t have to give people the answers, allowing me to empower staff to find their own solutions. This has fostered a culture of reflective practice and professional growth within the academy”.

The impact of the programme extends beyond professional skills, with Aparna, Lead Practitioner at Harris Academy Falconwood calling it “truly transformational”. She credits the programme with increasing her emotional intelligence and resilience, stating, “By completing this course, I can confidently say that today I am a better teacher, leader, mother, wife, friend, and colleague”. With expert guidance from Sarah Dodsley, our course tutor, participants gain the tools and confidence to integrate coaching into their leadership practice, strengthening both their own development and the teams they lead.