University of Brighton secures funding to boost teacher recruitment among underrepresented groups across Sussex

The teaching degree apprenticeship (TDA) is an exciting new opportunity for those seeking a career in teaching to gain a degree and qualified teacher status while earning a salary on a four-year apprenticeship programme. The funding of just under £100,000 awarded to the university will significantly expand this new development, creating additional apprenticeship opportunities and specifically targeting recruitment among disadvantaged groups and underrepresented communities in East and West Sussex. 

The goal of the project is to offer 50 apprenticeships in the 2025–26 academic year, rising to 60 in 2026–27. There will initially be two TDA routes – for those wishing to teach primary education and secondary maths – and plans are in place to introduce further secondary routes in subsequent years.

Since 2020–21 teacher vacancies have risen by 83% within the region and national data shows a concerning decline in applications from minority ethnic candidates. East and West Sussex encompass several areas with notably low participation in higher education.

Andy Davies, Deputy Dean, School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences said "We are thrilled to receive this funding, which allows us to directly address the issue of teacher shortages while promoting greater diversity within the teaching profession. This project represents a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and representative teaching workforce, ensuring that all young people have access to a high-quality education delivered by a diverse range of educators.”

The initiative will focus on building sustainable partnerships with regional schools and fostering interest among potential apprentices. Potential applicants include individuals already working in schools, such as teaching assistants, who do not yet hold degrees as well as school and college leavers.

Candidates who join the TDA scheme will be able to earn while they learn in an apprenticeship lasting four years, with 60% on-the-job training and 40% off-the-job training. Upon successful completion, apprentices will obtain an undergraduate degree, qualified teacher status, and fulfil the apprenticeship standard requirements.

The scheme adds to the university’s already strong track record in teacher education: the teaching programme recently received an Outstanding rating from Ofsted, while University of Brighton is currently ranked second in the UK for Education in the Guardian University Rankings 2025.