National Apprenticeship Week Staff Spotlight: Ben Hargrove
Thursday, 12th February 2026
As part of National Apprenticeship Week (9–15 February 2026), we’re proud to shine a spotlight on Ben Hargrove, a Higher Level Teaching Assistant at Lostock Primary School.
Ben began his career as an apprentice in 2014. After successfully completing his apprenticeship, he was offered a permanent role as a TA2 and has continued to progress ever since. He later qualified as a TA3 and has now been working as a HLTA for the past seven years. Alongside his role at Lostock, he is currently studying for his teaching degree on a part-time basis at Edge Hill University.
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Tell us about your career so far
I started as an apprentice in 2014 and was fortunate enough to be offered a job as a TA2. Since then I have qualified as a TA3 and have been working as a HLTA for the last seven years. I am currently studying for my teaching degree on a part-time basis at Edge Hill University.
What was your experience like completing your apprenticeship?
I had a really positive experience completing my apprenticeship, working with a brilliant tutor called Nicola at Bolton College. I felt incredibly supported by colleagues at Lostock, so much so that I’ve stayed there ever since. My colleagues and friends Jill and Jane were brilliant mentors, and I couldn’t have done it without them.
How would you describe your role in three words?
Different - every - day
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