SS&L Employer of the Month – February 2026

“We chose SS&L as our learning provider because of your outstanding reputation and proven track record in delivering high-quality training and support.”

Congratulations to Polden Bower School and the Bower Learning Partnership for winning Employer of the Month for February 2026!!

Nominated by our Development and Partnerships Director, Heidi, Polden Bower took on our very first cohort of Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant Apprentices when we launched the course last September. “Polden Bower are a really inspirational Partnership. The facilities for pupils are second to none and the approach and commitment I’ve witnessed towards growing their staff is wonderful,” says Heidi. “The school have embraced the opportunity of the Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant apprenticeship, giving opportunities for their teaching support staff to gain specialist skills and experience.”

We spoke with David Drew, who coordinates the Partnership’s apprenticeships with SS&L, about the award. “We are absolutely thrilled to have Polden Bower School and our wider Bower Learning partnership recognised as Employer of the Month. This accolade is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.”

Bower Learning Partnership

With apprentices all across the Partnership, the Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistants meet together at Polden Bower every other week for classes with their SS&L tutors.

“We have apprentices in our cohort from Polden Bower School, Avalon School, The Bridge School, and Taunton Deane Partnership College,” says David. “One of the things we are proud of about the Bower Learning Partnership is our schools’ unwatering commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all our students.”

The Benefit of Apprenticeships

“Our apprentices have brought fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to our schools, significantly contributing to our vibrant and dynamic learning community,” David continues. “They have become integral members of our team, and their enthusiasm and dedication have been truly inspiring.”

“We chose SS&L as our learning provider because of your outstanding reputation and proven track record in delivering high-quality training and support. Your team has been instrumental in guiding us through the apprenticeship process, offering invaluable resources and expertise.”

Jessica, one of the apprentices employed by the Bower Partnership and studying with SS&L, says “I chose to complete a Level 5 Specialist Teaching Assistant degree to deepen my expertise, strengthen my professional practice, and better support learners with diverse and complex needs.”

What’s Next?

“Looking ahead, we are excited about the continued growth and development of both Polden Bower School and out apprentices,” says David. “We are committed to providing ongoing opportunities for professional development and are confident that our apprentices will go on to achieve great things.”

“Once again, thank you for this incredible honour, and we look forward to continuing our successful partnership with SS&L!”

And finally, from Heidi: “I have no doubt at all that Polden Bower’s future-focussed outlook will reap huge dividends for the quality of education they can deliver to their pupils, and to the development and satisfaction of their workforce.”

If you would like to learn more about how higher level apprenticeships can support your existing staff then give us a call on 0330 332 7997 to find out more!