Operational/Departmental Manager Apprenticeship - CMI Level 5

Flexible, award-winning Online and On Campus courses and apprenticeships are delivered by approved CMI centres across the UK.

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Apprenticeship overview

The Operations/Departmental Manager Apprenticeship is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Apprentices will study the CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership. Staff learn on-the-job, applying new skills to their existing role. It is ideal for those who are, or who wish to become, operations/departmental managers, or existing managers who have practical management skills, but wish to develop their theoretical understanding further.

The duration of the apprenticeship is typically 18-24 months.

What will I learn?

The apprenticeship covers a wide range of business management skills and knowledge, including organisational performance, interpersonal skills and personal effectiveness.  

Study method

Apprentices will study Mindful Education’s award-winning video lessons during allotted time at work, and also attend regular sessions with a college tutor.

Online lessons can be accessed at any time, using a mobile, tablet or desktop – meaning apprentices can fit their study around work commitments, minimising disruption in the workplace. Each lesson lasts around 45 minutes and is accompanied by animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Exercises, interactive case studies and analytical tools help to enhance the learning experience further. Learners will be expected to dedicate 3-4 hours a week working on VLE-related activities.

On campus, apprentices benefit from regular classes with an experienced college tutor, either in-person or virtually. A combination of tutor-led work, group exercises and discussion encourages apprentices to apply theory to real-life workplace situations. This modern, flexible approach to apprenticeship training empowers learners, minimises disruption to employers, and delivers tangible results in the workplace.

Example modules

The Level 5 apprenticeship covers a range of key areas, including: 

  • Using reflective practice to inform personal and professional development
  • Principles of developing, managing and leading individuals and teams to achieve success
  • Managing projects to achieve results
  • Managing change
  • Managing finance

How will I be assessed?

Assessment for the CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership is via practical work-based assignments provided by the college. This ensures you minimise time away from work and that you undertake work study which is relevant to your organisation’s context.

Apprentices must pass the end-point assessment in order to achieve the apprenticeship certificate. The end-point assessment for the Operations/ Departmental Manager Apprenticeship involves a review of the apprentice’s Portfolio of Evidence which is collated during their work/study time; an externally set knowledge test; presentation of a work-based project and question/ answer session and an interview/ competency based discussion relating to the apprentice’s Portfolio of Evidence.

Entry requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their apprentices though most will be expected to hold 5 GCSEs at grade 5 (C) or higher. Prior experience may also be considered. Apprentices should also have achieved qualifications in English and maths at a minimum of level 2 or equivalent. Where this is not the case, apprentices must complete these by the end of the apprenticeship. It is also recommended that the apprentice is supported to become digitally literate where this is important to their role.

Progression

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, there is an opportunity to study CMI courses at higher levels.

Career opportunities

Apprentices who successfully complete the programme will be awarded a Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership. Subject to membership conditions, learners can also register to become a member of the CMI.

Roles may include: Operations Manager, Regional Manager, Divisional Manager, Department Manager and specialist managers.

Key responsibilities may include creating and delivering operational plans, managing projects, leading and managing teams, managing change, financial and resource management, talent management, coaching and mentoring.

Additional information

This apprenticeship will typically take 2½ years to complete but can take less depending on the prior experience of the individual and the specification of the employer. Workshop attendance is one day per month during term time, some sessions may be virtual (this may vary depending on your chosen study centre).

The Diploma in Management and Leadership qualification is not mandated as part of the apprenticeship.

This course is free to apprentices, as the cost is paid by your employer. Large companies can fund the course using their apprenticeship levy. SMEs can access government funding to subsidise the cost by 95%.

How to apply

If you are considering an apprenticeship, applications can be made via our partner colleges and training providers.

Search for your nearest provider here

If you are an employer or a training provider, please email our Employer Engagement team via: apprenticeships@mindful-education.co.uk

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