System People Ltd is offering a free 5-week programme starting Monday 9th November 2026, which is an ideal entry-level opportunity for those who are looking to start a career in primary, secondary, or further education.
Through the Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges, individuals will explore all the essential information needed to prepare for working with children and young people, including child development, safeguarding, health and safety, and understanding equality, diversity and inclusion. On successful completion of the programme, there will be the opportunity to join System People’s supply register, giving immediate access to education employment across the county.
The programme is fully funded through the Adult Skills Fund, set up to help adult learners achieve Level 2 and 3 qualifications that reflect local skills needs, and is overseen by the Cumbria Combined Authority through the Cumbria Adult Learning Services. By working with education providers and businesses, the Adult Skills Fund aims to build a skills system shaped around Cumbria’s needs.
Cumbria has a vibrant education sector, offering fantastic career opportunities for a variety of education-based roles. Nationally, pupils with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) increased by 11.1% between 2025 and 2026, but the teaching assistant workforce only increased by 2.1% over the same period. System People’s free programme offers a first step into the education sector, after which there are endless opportunities which can be shaped by an individual’s skills and passion to support local children and young people.
Delivered through live tutor-led workshops and independent learning, the programme can be accessed online or in-person at System People’s offices in Carlisle or Workington, on Monday & Tuesday (9.30am-3pm). Learners will be supported by a friendly and experienced team, including a dedicated tutor.
Participants must be 16+ and have the Right to Work in the UK and must have a genuine interest in supporting children and young people with their learning and development. Level 2 maths and English are preferred but can be discussed on a case-by-case basis. An enhanced DBS check is required to join the supply register and will be funded by System People as part of the training.
To arrange a registration discussion phone 01228 530554 or email reception@system-people.co.uk.
About Us
System People Ltd is an independent training provider specialising in logistics and education (trading as SP Training and System People).
About System People
System People provide a wide range of apprenticeships and adult learning programmes within the education sector, with a strong focus on learner achievement and effective employer partnerships. The organisation also offers specialist education recruitment services for providers across Cumbria.
System People is REC audited and has also been appointed to the Government Commercial Agency’s (GCA) Lot 1 RM6376 Supply Teachers and Education Recruitment framework.
Ofsted recognises the quality of our work with an “Exceptional” Achievement for Adult Learning, reflecting the care we put into supporting our learners and helping them succeed.
To find out more about System People Ltd and SP Training, including our programmes, visit www.system-people.co.uk and www.sptraininguk.com
For further comment, please contact:
Charlotte Kirkbride
General Manager
charlotte.kirkbride@sptraininguk.com
