Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship

The Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship develops essential management and leadership skills for professionals responsible for people or projects. Learners gain practical experience in communication, motivation, and decision-making while exploring topics such as resource management and digital innovation. Delivered through workplace learning and structured coaching, it’s an excellent route to becoming a confident, capable and inspiring team leader.

This Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship is open to individuals working in health and social care or other service-based sectors who are responsible for leading teams or managing operations. It’s ideal for supervisors, coordinators and aspiring managers seeking formal recognition of their leadership capability. Applicants must be employed, have lived in the UK for at least three years, and be able to complete the programme alongside their role. See our full entry requirements in our Knowledge Hub.

The Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship typically takes 15–18 months to complete. Learners combine on-the-job experience with structured learning, reflective activities and guided coaching. This approach ensures new skills are applied directly in the workplace, helping participants build confidence and deliver measurable improvements in leadership and team performance.

The Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship is delivered through a flexible blend of online learning, workplace application and one-to-one coaching with tend Development Coaches. Learners complete interactive modules, assignments and projects relevant to their role. This structure ensures every learner gains practical experience while meeting the demands of their organisation and service users.

On completion, learners receive a nationally recognised Level 3 Team Leader / Supervisor Apprenticeship. The qualification demonstrates professional competence in leadership, people management and communication — essential skills for career progression. Graduates of the programme often move into more senior leadership or management roles across care and healthcare services.

Learners on the Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship build practical skills in leadership, delegation, communication and resource management. They also develop emotional intelligence, resilience and the ability to manage change. These skills help them motivate others, lead effectively under pressure, and deliver consistently high-quality outcomes within their teams.

Progress is reviewed regularly through reflective accounts, project work, and one-to-one discussions with a tend Development Coach. The apprenticeship concludes with an End Point Assessment (EPA), which includes a presentation and professional discussion. This ensures every Level 3 Team Leader demonstrates measurable impact and readiness for greater responsibility.

The Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship is fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy for larger employers. Smaller employers can access government funding covering up to 95% of costs. This makes it an affordable, high-impact investment in your organisation’s leadership pipeline, building stronger, more capable team leaders at minimal expense.

Completing the Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship opens doors to higher-level qualifications, such as the Level 5 Leader in Adult Care Apprenticeship or management diplomas. Learners can progress into senior roles including Operations Manager, Department Head or Deputy Manager, continuing their professional development and leadership journey.

Throughout the Level 3 Team Leader programme, learners receive tailored guidance and regular one-to-one support from tend Development Coaches. Employers are kept informed of progress through detailed feedback and review sessions. This ensures every learner is well-supported, confident and delivering measurable benefits to their organisation.