Program Overview

Introduction to the Managing for Operational Success Apprenticeship

The Managing for Operational Success Apprenticeship is a dedicated pathway for managers and leaders, aspiring managers and leaders working in environmentally focused or sustainability-driven sectors. This Level 5 apprenticeship programme is designed to support those who lead people, resources, projects, and change, and who play a direct role in delivering an organisation's environmental, social, and economic impact.

Course Overview

The apprenticeship blends management theory with practical application, focusing on developing operational plans, managing budgets and resources, leading change and continuous improvement, using data and technology to support decision-making, and fostering inclusive, high-performing teams. The programme is ideal for team leaders, supervisors, early-career managers, and those transitioning into an operational management role.

Qualifications Awarded

Upon successfully completing the Final Apprenticeship Assessment, apprentices will receive the Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship, awarded by the Department for Education. Additionally, apprentices can choose to include an academic element via the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) written assessments at no additional cost. Options include:

• Apprenticeship only route
• Apprenticeship plus CMI L5 Management & Leadership Award
• Apprenticeship plus CMI L5 Management & Leadership Certificate

Course Details and Modules

The programme's curriculum draws upon the Operations Manager occupational standard, covering knowledge, skills, and behaviours in four capability areas:

1. Organisational Performance – Delivering Results: Operational planning, project management, and resource management, including budgeting and financial forecasting.
2. Interpersonal Excellence – Managing People and Developing Relationships: Leadership styles, coaching and mentoring, recruiting, developing and motivating staff, and building relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
3. Personal Effectiveness – Managing Self: Self-awareness, time management, decision-making, and critical analysis.
4. Agility and Professionalism: Ethical behaviour, compliance with legislation, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and an appreciation of environmental and social responsibilities.

Modules

The apprenticeship is delivered in four significant phases, integrating core CMI modules with an elective CMI module in Phase 3. Apprentices will build their portfolio by mapping their evidence against the Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours (KSBs) throughout the programme.

Study Options

The apprenticeship is supported through four key online platforms:

• BUD: The central hub for the learning journey, where apprentices will follow the Diagnose, Develop, Demonstrate, Debrief cycle, apply learning in the workplace, and build their portfolio of evidence over time.
• iLearn: Hosts key learning content and interactive knowledge checks that mark the end of each monthly learning cycle.
• Zoom: Delivers live workshops and Academic Skills sessions.
• Teams: Provides a space for collaboration, support, and communication with coaches.

Entry Requirements

Arden University considers applications on a case-by-case basis. To study with Arden, applicants need:

• A laptop or desktop PC with a good internet connection.
• Academic Route: GCSE English and Mathematics at Grade D/3 or above, or equivalent, or initial assessment – Level 1.
• Experiential Route: Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience in relevant roles, demonstrating readiness for Level 5 study.
• General Entry Requirements: Full support from Employer and Line Manager, including minimum Off-the-job training hours, be in permanent employment in a suitable role, contracted to a minimum of 30 hours per week, be a UK/EU/EAA resident for at least 3 years prior to starting, and be proficient in the English language.

English and Maths Requirements for Apprentices

Apprentices must have the right level of English and maths to succeed. Those aged 16 to 18 without a Level 2 qualification (GCSE or equivalent) in English and/or maths will be required to study these subjects as part of their apprenticeship. For those 19 or older, the employer will decide whether they need to take standalone qualifications during their apprenticeship.

Course Fees and Funding

The programme falls under a £9,000 funding band. Apprenticeship funding rules mean that levy-paying employers can use their levy funds to cover the full cost of training and assessment. Employers who do not pay the levy contribute 5% of the programme cost, with the government paying the remaining 95%.

Career Prospects

Completing the Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship provides a fast-track pathway to higher-level apprenticeships, such as the Level 6 Chartered Manager degree apprenticeship. Graduates may progress into roles like area manager, department manager, general manager, operations manager, regional manager, or specialist manager. With professional membership from the CMI and the opportunity to gain Chartered Manager status, apprentices will be well-equipped to advance their career in operations management and leadership.

Industry Skills

The apprenticeship equips apprentices with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to excel as an operations manager, including:

• Developing operational plans, setting targets, and managing budgets.
• Planning and managing projects using risk-management and project-management tools.
• Leading, motivating, and developing teams through coaching and mentoring.
• Building relationships and communicating effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Managing change and continuous improvement, using data analytics and technology to inform decision-making.
• Demonstrating professional and ethical behaviour, understanding responsibilities in relation to legislation, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.

Professional Recognition

The apprenticeship aligns with professional membership of the Chartered Management Institute and the Institute of Leadership. Apprentices with sufficient management experience may apply for Chartered Manager status upon completion, providing further recognition of their leadership skills and enhancing their career prospects.