Member Benefits  Trainers Customer Support  Thrive-Online Login

Wellbeing Leadership apprenticeship Level 5 FAQs

Got questions about the Wellbeing Leadership Apprenticeship? You’re in the right place! Here, we’ve answered the most common queries to help you decide if this programme is the perfect next step in your career.

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible for the apprenticeship?
To be eligible, candidates need to:
  • Have a minimum of one year’s experience in a relevant role.
  • Be employed in a role working closely with children and young people.
  • Have support from an employer and levy account holder.
  • Have held UK residency for at least three years.
  • Be based in England.
  • Have achieved GCSE grade 9-4 (A* - C) or equivalent in English and maths. If you haven't secured a grade 4 (C) or above in GCSE English and maths, you will be required to complete Functional Skills Level 2 in these areas. You will be fully supported by your tutors using a range of materials that best suits you.
  • Be in a position to lead the strategic implementation of the Thrive Approach within their class, department, setting, or organisation.
Suitable job roles could be; teachers, SENDCos, DSLs, members of SLT, pastoral leads, support staff, HLTAs, behaviour leads, attendance mentors, mental health leads and other roles where individuals work directly with children and young people and are empowered to lead the implementation of Thrive, such as in care homes or secure facilities.
What are the employer responsibilities for this apprenticeship?

Employers need to provide six hours of off-the-job training per week, offer a mentor, and facilitate the apprentice’s monthly virtual sessions and overall development.

How is the programme funded?

It’s fully funded for those working in local authority schools or those paying into the apprenticeship levy. For non-levy payers, the government offers co-funding, covering 95% of the cost, or levy transfers are available for additional support.

Download our Levy Funding Guide
Is there more work involved because there are dual qualifications?

No, the Thrive Licensed Practitioner training is fully integrated into the Wellbeing Leadership Level 5 apprenticeship. This means you won’t have extra work compared to other providers offering this apprenticeship. However, it’s important to understand that the apprenticeship is a significant commitment.

This 18-month programme is thorough, requiring consistent dedication, as well as 20% off-the-job training. It’s a much more in-depth experience than completing the standalone Thrive Licensed Practitioner course, which can be done independently in just three months.

If your primary goal is simply to become a Thrive Licensed Practitioner and you’re unsure about committing to the additional scope and demands of the apprenticeship, we’d recommend opting for the standalone course instead. This ensures you can focus on Thrive training without the broader requirements of an apprenticeship programme.

By enrolling, you’ll be embarking on a journey that equips you with comprehensive skills to support learners' social and emotional wellbeing while gaining a valuable Level 5 qualification. It's ideal for those ready to fully invest in this opportunity.

 Is the Level 5 qualification equivalent to a degree?

Yes, it’s equivalent to a foundation degree (Level 5).

What are the benefits of completing the Level 5 apprenticeship?

Completing this apprenticeship earns you a dual qualification: Level 5 Operations Manager and Thrive Licensed Practitioner, enhancing your expertise in supporting pupils' social and emotional wellbeing, implementing inclusive strategies, and leading wellbeing initiatives. You’ll also develop advanced leadership skills to mentor colleagues and advocate for pupil needs effectively.

Delivered in partnership with Best Practice Network, an Ofsted-rated ‘Good’ apprenticeship provider, this programme blends evidence-based approaches with practical training. It boosts your career prospects, strengthens your professional credibility, and empowers you to make a lasting impact on children’s lives.

Can multiple staff members from the same school enrol?

Due to the time commitment, we recommend that only one candidate per setting takes part.

Are virtual classroom sessions scheduled during school hours?

Yes, sessions are scheduled within typical school hours, with options for morning or afternoon to align with off-the-job training requirements.

If I work full-time, how much time is dedicated to off-the-job training?

Full-time apprentices are required to have six hours per week of off-the-job training, while part-time apprentices must allocate 20% of their working hours for this purpose.

What does off-the-job training include?

This can involve activities like shadowing, mentoring, attending training events, interactive online learning, and completing tasks that build new skills and knowledge relevant to the apprenticeship.

How does the apprenticeship benefit my current role?

This apprenticeship benefits your current role by developing essential skills in leadership, strategic planning and operational management. You’ll also build expertise in how to support pupils’ social and emotional development, which underpins behaviour, attendance and learning outcomes.

Key areas covered in the training include:

  • Promoting positive behaviour and emotional resilience: Implement evidence-based strategies to support pupils’ social emotional development and engagement with learning.
  • Communication and collaboration: Present to stakeholders, motivate teams, and champion inclusivity.
  • Problem-solving and decision-making: Identify issues, analyse data, and implement solutions.
  • Planning and delivery: Manage projects, budgets, and organisational goals.
  • Continuous improvement: Lead professional development, adapt to changes, and enhance outcomes.
  • Regulatory and risk management: Apply policies, assess risks, and ensure continuity.
  • Sustainability and strategy: Deliver sustainable solutions and align plans with strategic objectives.

    Not only will this apprenticeship enhance your professional skills and advance your career, it will position you as a key advocate for pupil wellbeing, making a lasting impact on the school community.
What types of settings is the apprenticeship a fit for?

This role is essential across educational settings—from primary and secondary schools to alternative provisions and further education.

CONTACT US