The Senior Leader Apprenticeship is a work-based postgraduate programme designed to develop strategic management and leadership skills for roles such as Director, COO, CFO, and CEO. Typically completed over two years, the programme offers fast-track options for experienced professionals. Apprentices earn a Postgraduate Diploma in Executive Leadership, with the opportunity to progress to an Executive MBA.
The programme combines academic learning with practical application, enabling participants to lead change, manage risk, and develop effective strategies across all business functions.
What is a Senior Leader Apprenticeship?
It is a postgraduate diploma in executive leadership that equips professionals with the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed for today’s managers and leaders. This apprenticeship programme is designed to develop senior leaders who can drive organisational success, challenge traditional business methods, and foster innovation. The programme focuses on strategic management, risk management strategies, and leadership skills, providing a comprehensive learning experience for senior leaders.
Programme Overview
The Senior Leader Apprenticeship is a postgraduate diploma in executive leadership that equips professionals with the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed for today’s managers and leaders.
This apprenticeship programme is designed to develop senior leaders who can drive organisational success, challenge traditional business methods, and foster innovation. The programme focuses on strategic management, risk management strategies, and leadership skills, providing a comprehensive learning experience for senior leaders.
Key Benefits of the Senior Leader Apprenticeship
- Gain a recognised Postgraduate Diploma in Executive Leadership
- Build advanced skills in strategy, risk management, and leadership
- Access one-to-one mentoring and networking with senior executives
- Learn through blended delivery—flexible online and in-person formats
- Progress toward an Executive MBA for long-term career development
- Funded through the apprenticeship levy or government co-investment
- Develop essential skills such as critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and corporate governance
Who Is It For?
This apprenticeship is ideal for professionals with senior or strategic responsibilities. It equips individuals with the tools and frameworks necessary for excelling in senior management roles.
Typical roles include:
- General Managers
- Senior Managers and Executives
- Directors (COO, CFO, CIO, CEO)
- Senior military officers transitioning to civilian leadership
Entry Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a 2:2 degree (or equivalent)
- Have 2+ years of relevant work experience
- Work in a senior role for at least 30 hours per week
- Have employer support and demonstrate leadership potential
Programme Structure and Delivery
The programme is structured into three phases: Preparation, Live, and Post, integrating on-the-job experience with structured learning. The curriculum includes various learning activities such as applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, enhancing skills in client management and strategic planning through the use of effective research methodologies.
Delivery includes:
- Blended learning: face-to-face workshops and online seminars
- Independent research and workplace-based projects
- Support from an academic mentor and training provider
- Professional discussion based assessments: evaluative conversations between the apprentice and an independent assessor, focusing on the apprentice’s portfolio and demonstrating their knowledge, skills, and competencies within the program
Modules cover:
- Strategic Leadership and Management
- Financial Planning and Risk Management
- Supply Chain and Procurement Strategy
- Workforce Planning and Inclusive Leadership
- Change Management
Apprenticeship Standard
The standard is designed to develop knowledge, skills, and behaviours required by employers, including strategic management, risk management, and leadership skills.
The standard is focused on developing senior leaders who can provide clear, inclusive, and strategic leadership and direction within an organisation. The apprenticeship standard includes a range of topics, such as strategic workforce planning, operational strategies, and market strategies, providing a comprehensive learning experience for senior leaders.
Programme Duration
The programme typically takes 18-24 months to complete, depending on the prior experience of the individual and the specification of the employer. The programme is delivered through a blended learning approach, combining face-to-face and online lectures and seminars, with a focus on work-based learning and online learning.
The programme includes a range of assessments, including a strategic business proposal, a professional discussion, and a portfolio of evidence, providing a comprehensive assessment of the apprentice’s knowledge, skills, and behaviours.
Assessment: End Point Assessment (EPA)
The final assessment includes:
- A work-based project and presentation
- A portfolio of evidence
- A competency-based interview and professional discussion based on the apprentice’s portfolio
These methods evaluate leadership capability, strategic intent, operational awareness, and the ability to identify trends and apply critical thinking. The EPA is conducted by an external, approved assessment organisation.
Funding and Costs
Total cost: £14,000
Fully funded by employers with a wage bill over £3 million (via apprenticeship levy)
SMEs pay just 5%, with government covering 95% of fees
Programme Accreditation
Technical Education (IfATE) and is designed to meet the requirements of the senior leader apprenticeship standard. The programme is delivered by a training provider and is eligible for government funding, including the apprenticeship levy.
The apprenticeship is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience for senior leaders, including one-to-one mentoring, dedicated support, and access to a range of resources and facilities. Upon successful completion of the programme, apprentices can progress to a range of executive education courses, including a postgraduate diploma or an MBA.
Application Process
Applicants typically need:
- Three A-levels (or equivalent)
- A degree or substantial work experience in a senior role
- A strong grasp of strategic leadership and business administration
Why Choose This Programme?
The Senior Leader Apprenticeship empowers professionals to drive transformation and innovation. With a balance of theory and practice, and strong employer engagement, it’s an ideal route for career progression in senior management. This program supports participants on their leadership journey, providing a structured learning pathway that addresses individual learning needs and the skills required for success in senior strategic roles.
Regulated by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education and the Quality Assurance Agency, it ensures high standards and a consistent focus on essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs).
The apprenticeship standards play a crucial role in the assessment and certification of apprentices, outlining the quality assurance processes and educational requirements that must be met during training.
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