Spotlight on Jake Dann

To celebrate Apprentice Wednesday, we are pleased to spotlight Jake Dann, a dedicated educator who is turning his passion for student support into a clear professional legacy.

After successfully completing his Level 3 TA apprenticeship, Jake didn’t just stop there—he chose to “step up,” driven by a deep commitment to the students he works with every day, and enrolled on the Level 5 SEND Specialist TA Apprenticeship.

In this Q&A, we explore Jake’s reality of taking that “next step.” From the invaluable mentorship that sparked a career shift to the “hands-on” creative control he has gained in his apprenticeship, all while keeping his sights set on his ultimate goal: becoming a qualified English teacher.

What influenced your decision to apply for an apprenticeship?

My decision was driven by a desire to reach my ultimate goal: teaching. During my Level 3 graduation, my mentor helped me map out a career path where the Level 5 apprenticeship served as the ideal stepping stone.

I knew that gaining more advanced, hands-on experience would provide the foundation I need for the future. Thanks to my mentors encouragement and the recruitment teams help with the onboarding, the move to Level 5 felt like a natural and exciting progression.

Having completed Level 3, what made you choose a Level 5 apprenticeship

Having completed my Level 3 apprenticeship, I felt a strong drive to deepen my expertise in key SEND areas. Working closely with children who face SEMH and communication challenges, I wanted to explore new ways to make their educational experience as fulfilling as possible.My goal is to provide the kind of targeted support that wasn’t always available when I was in school. I find this work so fulfilling, and I view the Level 5 apprenticeship as a vital step in ensuring every student I support has the confidence and the tools to succeed.”

Do you feel your career prospects have changed now that you are working toward a Level 5 qualification?

Since starting my Level 5 apprenticeship, I feel I have a much clearer sense of direction. I now know exactly what is expected of me as I work toward my ultimate goal of becoming a qualified teacher. I am particularly interested in specialising in English. Having this specific target has challenged me to stay focused and ensure I’m getting every bit of value out of this qualification. It has transformed a job I love into a definitive career path.

What advice would you give to a current Level 3 student who is unsure if they are “ready” to do a Level 5 apprenticeship?

Honestly, just go for it! The Level 5 follows a similar layout to the Level 3 and integrates fluidly with your daily school life, respecting your work-life balance. The expectations are clear, and the support is incredible—from the mentors guiding you to the weekly bulletins that break down tasks and Off-the-Job (OTJ) ideas.

The course works with you, not against you. It’s fully funded by the apprenticeship levy, so you don’t have to worry about a pay reduction while you’re developing your skills. It is an amazing opportunity to open doors to future teaching pathways without the financial stress. I can’t recommend it enough!

The Final Word

Jake’s journey is a powerful reminder that the right pathway can transform a passion for helping others into a lifelong career. By bridging the gap between Level 3 and Level 5, he isn’t just advancing his own prospects—he is directly enhancing the lives of the students he supports every day.

We are incredibly proud to have Jake as part of our community and can’t wait to see him reach his goal of leading his own English classroom in the future.

Inspired by Jake’s story? If you’re currently completing your Level 3 and are curious about taking the next step toward a Level 5 SEND Specialist qualification, don’t let doubt hold you back. As Jake says: the support is there, the funding is available, and the opportunities are endless!