Five staff at Chances Mentoring in Chadderton have qualified or started professional training this year as the school builds its teaching team through apprenticeships.

The independent specialist school provides primary and secondary education for pupils across Greater Manchester whose needs are not being met in mainstream settings.

Jane Turner is completing a Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship. She said taking it on later in life can bring challenges, but her experience helps in the classroom.

"Doing an apprenticeship as an older adult can feel challenging at times. I can feel different to the younger staff, but I also bring life experience to the role," she said. "I'm proud of learning something new, and that it's never too late to learn and grow."

Emily Lees, the school's first apprentice, completed her training last year. Hammad Ali has completed his Level 3 Teaching Assistant apprenticeship.

Louise Taylor is working towards a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification with a specialism in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Ronnie Watson started a business administration apprenticeship this month.

Founder and director Callum Siddall said: "Investing in our team is how we make sure our young people get the support they need. Apprenticeships let staff learn while they work, so what they study goes straight into the classroom."

The school said developing staff internally reduces its reliance on external recruitment and helps keep the team aligned with its therapeutic approach to education.