Please note that all courses are subject to a minimum application number in order to run
About Finding an Employer
You MUST have an employer before you can start an apprenticeship. You can search for an apprenticeship job here.
If you don't yet have an employer you can still apply for an apprenticeship while you continue to look. We can offer you advice on how to successfully secure an apprenticeship with an employer.
Duration
Typically takes up to 2.5 years to complete
Overview
The Operations/Departmental Manager Apprenticeship is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute. Staff learn on the job, applying new skills to their existing role. It is ideal for those who are, or who wish to become, Operational/Departmental Managers, or existing managers who have practical management skills, but wish to develop their theoretical understanding further.
Am I ready to start?
Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their apprentices though most will be expected to hold 5 GCSEs at grade C or higher. Prior experience may also be considered. Apprentices should also have achieved qualifications in English and mathematics 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.
What does the course involve?
The apprenticeship covers a wide range of business management skills and knowledge, including organisational performance, interpersonal skills and personal effectiveness.
Example modules
- Project development and control
- Personal development and a manager and leader
- Managing recruitment, selection and induction
- Managing team and individual performance
- Information-based decision making
- Organisational financial management
How and when will I study?
Study Method – Online and On Campus
We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver this apprenticeship through our Online and On Campus model.
Online lessons can be accessed at any time, using a mobile, tablet or desktop - meaning apprentices can fit their study around work commitments, minimizing disruption in the workplace.
On campus, apprentices benefit from face-to-face classes at College with an experienced tutor. A combination of classroom-based lessons, group exercises and discussion encourage 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.
Apprentices will attend college once every two weeksand will study online materials during allotted time at work.
How will I be assessed?
Apprentices must pass the end-point assessment in order to achieve the apprenticeship certificate.
The end-point assessment for the Operational/ 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 Continual Professional Development Log.
Down to business, what can I do and what can I earn?
Progression
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, there is an opportunity to study CMI courses at higher levels up to level 8.
Career opportunities
Apprentices who successfully complete the programme will be awarded a Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership and will also be eligible to register as full members 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.
Got a job?
You must have a job to do an apprenticeship. If you already have a job you may be able to do an apprenticeship with your current employer.
If you don’t have a job for your apprenticeship – apply for your place at College by clicking the 'Apply Now' button at the top and bottom of the page.
Once you have applied please check out our apprenticeship job vacancies.
An apprenticeship comprises two parts:
- Typically 20% study element (at Harlow College or Stansted Airport College).
- 80% work based element with an employer. It is your responsibility to find an employer.
Great, so what do I do now?
Call 01279 868240 to speak to an Apprenticeships adviser
Contact us about applying for an Apprenticeship