Course overview
This comprehensive apprenticeship programme is designed for the business professions sector, specifically those aspiring to excel as operations managers. The course provides the knowledge, skills, and practical experience required to effectively lead teams, manage projects, and align operations with strategic business goals. Participants will develop the ability to oversee complex processes, ensuring organisational objectives are achieved efficiently and sustainably.
A key focus of the programme is fostering strong interpersonal and leadership skills. Participants will learn how to build and maintain productive relationships with team members, stakeholders, and clients, creating a collaborative work environment that supports success. Additionally, the course emphasises strategic resource planning, equipping managers with tools to allocate and optimise resources effectively in dynamic business settings.
Ethical practice forms a cornerstone of the training, with an emphasis on ensuring compliance with ethical, sustainable, and legal standards. Participants will gain insights into navigating regulatory landscapes and implementing processes that not only drive business success but also align with broader societal and environmental responsibilities.
Adaptability is another central theme, preparing operations managers to thrive in diverse and ever-changing environments. The programme teaches techniques for problem-solving, decision-making, and managing uncertainty, enabling participants to respond proactively to challenges and support organisational growth.
By the end of the apprenticeship, participants will be well-prepared to take on the multifaceted responsibilities of an operations manager. They will have the skills to lead high-performing teams, oversee critical projects, and contribute to their organisation's strategic vision, all while promoting a culture of sustainability, ethical compliance, and continuous improvement.
The learner journey
1. 20 months on-programme – This is when the individual will learn the skills, knowledge and behaviours which will support them for their End-Point Assessment. The learner could partake in a combination of activities, such as classroom based sessions, mentoring, shadowing, bespoke resources and off-site visits in order to support their learning and development.
You will be required to spend at least six hours a week on off-the-job training in order to meet the course requirements.
2. Gateway – After the 20 months teaching and learning, you, your training provider and the learner will review the learners journey and decide whether it is the right time for the on-programme assessment.
3. End-Point Assessment – This is when your learner will need to demonstrate they have learnt the required knowledge, skills and behaviours, through an on demand knowledge test, a professional discussion, practical observation and business project.
Eligibility
Those with an annual wage bill of less than £3m do not pay the Apprenticeship Levy. Instead, 95% of each apprenticeship is funded by the government whilst a 5% investment is required by the employer to enhance the skills of their employee.
- Employers are also be eligible for a £1000 incentive payment if the apprentice is aged 16–18.
- Employers with less than 50 employees and where the apprentice is aged 16–18, the government will fund 100% of the apprentice and are eligible for a £1000 incentive payment.
- Employers with those aged 19+ the government will continue to fund 95% of the apprenticeship programme whilst a 5% investment is required by the employer.
Businesses can manage this through the Apprenticeship Service online account.
Find out more
To learn additional information about this apprenticeship, you can explore our Course Sheet or Learner Journey.