Operations Manager Apprenticeship
Why choose a Operations Manager Apprenticeship with Next Level?
Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship
Our Level 5 Operations Manager apprenticeship is ideal for those looking to develop leadership skills and support business growth. It suits individuals managing teams or projects who want to advance their career.
Operations Managers are responsible for achieving operational goals aligned with the organisation’s strategy. Key duties include creating and delivering plans, managing projects and change, handling finances and resources, and coaching teams. Typical roles include Operational Manager, Regional Manager, and Department Manager.
Duration: Typically completed over 18-24 months.
Entry Requirements: There are no minimum grade requirements. However, if an apprentice has not already achieved a GCSE grade 4/C (or equivalent) in English and maths and is aged 16-19, they will need to complete Level 2 Functional Skills in both subjects before taking their end-point assessment.
Apprenticeship KSB's
All apprenticeships are built around three key areas: Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours. These form the foundation of the apprenticeship and must be fully developed and demonstrated by the learner before they can progress to their End Point Assessment (EPA).
Knowledge
- Presentation, Communication & Leadership: Know how to present information clearly and apply leadership, ethics, and wellbeing principles.
- Legislation, Policies & Inclusion: Understand laws, organisational policies, and how equity, diversity, and inclusion impact teams and businesses.
- People Management & Development: Learn recruitment, performance, reward, talent management, coaching, and mentoring techniques.
- Technology & Data Management: Use IT tools, research, analyse, and evaluate data to inform decisions and improve performance.
- Financial, Project & Improvement Management: Manage budgets, projects, and identify opportunities for organisational improvement.
- Stakeholder & Sector Awareness: Manage relationships, prioritise stakeholders, and understand the industry’s impact on the organisation.
- Problem Solving, Decision Making & Change: Apply techniques to solve problems, make decisions, and manage organisational change effectively.
- Business Continuity & Strategic Planning: Plan for risks, ensure ongoing operations, and align operational plans with strategic goals.
Skills
- Effective Communication & Presentation: Share information clearly across various media to engage stakeholders.
- Goal Setting & Performance Analysis: Set, manage, and review goals for individuals and teams using performance data.
- Project & Resource Management: Lead projects within budgets and allocate resources efficiently.
- Inclusive Leadership & Team Motivation: Lead diverse teams, promote wellbeing, and create an inclusive culture.
- Digital Proficiency & Research: Use digital tools for analysis and monitor progress; research and interpret data to support plans.
- Policy Application & Change Management: Implement relevant policies and manage continuous improvement and change.
- Prioritisation & Risk Planning: Organise tasks effectively and implement business continuity plans.
- Stakeholder Influence & Relationship Management: Negotiate, influence, and maintain strong stakeholder partnerships.
- Sustainability & Development: Deliver sustainable solutions and support continuous team learning and development.
Behaviours
- Integrity, Professionalism & Accountability: Act honestly, ethically, and take ownership of work and outcomes.
- Respect, Inclusivity & Collaboration: Treat others fairly, foster inclusivity, and work well with colleagues and stakeholders.
- Flexibility & Continuous Learning: Adapt positively to change and seek ongoing personal and team development.
Workshops and Delivery
Our Operations Manager apprenticeship workshops run on a hybrid model – with half delivered online and half delivered through in person master classes, typically once a month.
Workshops are mandatory, and an important part of building the knowledge and skills needed to pass your End Point Assessment.
Operations Manager Apprenticeship Assessment Plan
Your apprenticeship includes three key checkpoints to assess your progress and prepare you for your End Point Assessment.
Timing may vary slightly based on your individual progress:
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Checkpoint 1 – Around Month 9
A knowledge test to check your understanding so far. -
Checkpoint 2 – Between Months 16-18
A review of your portfolio and preparation for your project. -
Checkpoint 3 – Between Months 23-24
A mock End Point Assessment to get you ready for the real thing.
These checkpoints help ensure you’re developing the right skills, knowledge and behaviours at the right pace.
Gateway & End Point Assessment
Apprentices can only progress to Gateway once they have successfully passed Checkpoint 3 and are fully prepared.
Gateway marks the start of the End Point Assessment period, which typically lasts up to 3 months for the Team Leader apprenticeship. It begins with a formal discussion involving the apprentice, their tutor, employer and Site Assessor. During this meeting, all entry requirements are reviewed and confirmed – including Functional Skills (if needed) and portfolio completion.
Once through Gateway, the apprentice begins their End Point Assessment, which includes:
- Project proposal, followed by a presentation with questions and answers
- Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Is the Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship Right for You?
Whether you’re an employer looking to upskill your existing operations team or an aspiring Operations Manager aiming to enhance your skills and progress your career, we’re here to support you.
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Employers: Enquire now to chat with our team about the enrolment process.
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Future Apprentices: Apply now and we’ll guide you through your next steps.
Let’s get started — your journey begins here.