Operations or Departmental Manager (Apprenticeship)

During this two-year programme you will acquire skills and knowledge to progress your career as an Operations Manager, Divisional Manager, Departmental Manager or Specialist Manager, by applying learning in your workplace and gaining a highly respected Higher Education qualification in Management and Leadership.

The Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership combines workplace learning with university study, providing you with the ability to be a highly effective and marketable manager in the changing 21st Century workplace.

This programme explores both the practical aspects of management and leadership and developing subject knowledge. You will learn through a variety of methods including:

• guided independent and workplace learning;
• portfolio building;
• tutorials / group discussions with your course tutors and peers (typically one day every 2-4 weeks using a blend of learning via virtual technology and in-person workshops) with tutors and guest lecturers at our dedicated and newly refurbished Higher Education campus facilities in Newbury

Typical units include:

• Operational Leadership and Management
• Developing, Managing and Leading individuals and teams
• Developing Stakeholder Relations
• Managing Projects
• Managing Change
• Creating and delivering operational plans
• Managing Finance
• Reflective Practice

An apprenticeship is a genuine job and under all circumstances an apprentice will be employed from day one. Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study. CMI Level 5 Certificate in Management and Leadership and CMI Level 5 Award in Management and Leadership are also available as exit awards.

Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16, living in England and have no upper age limit. Any vacancies will clearly state what the entry requirements are for the job role being advertised. There will be different entry requirements depending on the company and role.

A minimum 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including maths and English are recommended for this apprenticeship. Individuals without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level and take the test for level 2 English and maths prior to taking the end-point assessment.

Willingness to learn independently and apply learning in your current workplace. Access to a PC and intermediate IT skills are essential.

Apprenticeship Standard: ST0385 Operations or Departmental Manager CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership. On completion, apprentices who possess three or more years' experience in a management role can apply for Chartered Manager status through the Chartered Institute of Management (CMI).

Learners awarded this qualification can progress at University Centre Newbury to the Level 6 Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship or the direct entry BA Management.

Through their apprenticeship, apprentices gain the technical knowledge, practical experience and wider skills they need for their job and career. Apprentices will have their skills, knowledge and behaviours evaluated at the end of their apprenticeship by taking an end-point assessment (EPA). This is known as synoptic assessment. Individuals without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level and take the test for level 2 English and maths prior to taking the end-point assessment.

The apprentice is expected to study through a mix of learning in the workplace, formal off-the-job training and the opportunity to practise new skills in a real work environment. The time spent on off-the-job training should be at least 20% and should be included as part of working hours. The employer must allow time to complete the apprenticeship within the working hours, however, some homework may be set by College Tutors or Development Coaches.

This is a work-based programme and is studied as part of an apprenticeship.

If you are between the ages of 16 and 24, you will not have to fund your own tuition, it is your employer and the government who cover the fees. If you are over 25, you may be asked to contribute towards the cost of your training, but it depends on your employer. If you do have to contribute to the cost of training, you may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

The cost of training an apprentice is dependent on their age and whether or not the business pays the Apprenticeship Levy. There are a range of different grants and incentives available to employers. Contact us for up-to-date information and advice on the funding support available.