If your business pays into the Apprenticeship Levy, you can use those funds to cover the full cost of the Level 5 Operations Manager apprenticeship. For non-levy paying employers, the government will fund 95% of the training cost, with your business contributing just 5%. This makes it a cost-effective way to upskill your team and develop future leaders.
Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship
Effective leadership is central to business success. This apprenticeship develops skilled operations managers who can lead teams, deliver projects and drive organisational performance, equipping learners with the tools to manage change and inspire progress in today’s fast-paced working environment.
Employer GuideLearner Guide
Currently delivering this programme with

Course Overview
Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship
Course Overview
The Level 5 Operations Manager apprenticeship prepares supervisors and managers to step into senior leadership roles. Over 21 months, learners develop the skills, creativity and vision needed to lead teams, deliver projects and guide organisations in a competitive environment.
Training is delivered through a blend of face-to-face and online learning, tailored to individual needs following an initial assessment. Progress is monitored using Aptem, our e-portfolio system, keeping learners on track from start to finish.
The programme explores people leadership, strategic thinking, organisational governance, financial management, project delivery and sustainable business practice. Learners also strengthen practical skills in coaching, mentoring, negotiation, conflict resolution and change management, applying them directly in the workplace.
Assessment is through an independent End-Point Assessment (EPA), which typically involves a professional discussion supported by a portfolio of evidence and a written project report with presentation.
Upskilling your team with tend means:
- Who is this for?
- Course Benefits
- Off-the-job hours
- EPA
Who is this for?
Who is the Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship suitable for?
This apprenticeship is designed for professionals with management experience who are ready to take the next step into senior leadership. It suits those responsible for leading people, managing projects and ensuring organisational success in a fast-paced environment. Learners typically have three to five years’ experience in a supervisory or management role and are seeking to expand their influence and capability.
Typical roles that may benefit include:
- Operations managers
- Department or functional managers
- Regional or area managers
- Team leaders preparing for more senior responsibility
- Middle managers across sectors such as healthcare, education, business or public services

Course Benefits
Course Benefits
This Level 5 Operations Manager apprenticeship strengthens organisational leadership by developing managers who can lead people, deliver projects and drive performance. Learners gain the confidence and skills to influence, motivate and manage change, while employers benefit from more resilient and capable leadership within their teams.
- Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship
- Independent End-Point Assessment (EPA)
- Tailored training delivered through face-to-face and online learning
- Development of advanced leadership, communication and project management skills
- Stronger decision-making, negotiation and conflict resolution techniques
- Improved ability to manage resources and deliver results
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD) opportunities
- Increased organisational capability and long-term growth

Off-the-job hours
Off-The-Job Hours
Although it’s called ‘off-the-job’ training (OTJT), learners don’t need to spend their own free time completing this programme. Learning new skills and undertaking new role-specific duties can be done through a wide range of activities, all performed during working hours.
A good way for the learner to build up their required hours is by discussing and evidencing any learning and development activities they’ve undertaken that week. They can do this with you and their Development Coach. For more information about off-the-job hours and completing courses, read our handy guide.
Learn MoreOff-The-Job Activities can be:
EPA
End Point Assesment EPA
This programme has a requirement for an End Point Assessment (EPA). Once all the programme’s modules have been covered and all evidence has been submitted, the EPA process will begin to complete the apprenticeship.
The EPA is the final stage of the apprenticeship. It’s conducted by an independent End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) to determine whether the learner has developed the skills, knowledge and behaviours outlined in the apprenticeship standard. To ensure best possible results, tend® Development Coaches will fully prepare your apprentices for their assessment.
Employer guideLearner guide1. Completion of training
All apprenticeship requirements are achieved, including the portfolio, functional skills (if needed), and the required off-the-job training hours logged.
2. Internal Verification
The portfolio is verified and quality checked internally. Certification is claimed where relevant, ensuring all evidence is approved before Gateway.
3. Gateway and Registration
All evidence and documents are submitted at Gateway. The End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) is engaged, and an assessor is allocated.
4. Assessment Planning
A planning meeting between the assessor, employer, and training provider confirms the assessment schedule, and any evidence submissions required.
5. Assessment Delivery
The Learner gives a presentation of their final project, showcasing all they have learned throughout the course.
6. Results and Certification
Assessment outcomes are graded (fail, pass, merit, or distinction) Certificates are issued, with resits or retakes available if required.
Course Modules
We embed deep knowledge and expertise through career building apprenticeships strengthened with broader skill building top-up courses.
Each combination tailored to your organisation’s requirements. This is what makes tend-trained professionals resilient to the stresses and strains of a demanding, yet rewarding career.
tend-trainedCarving a career path: Fatimatu's Diploma in Adult Care
Learner Case Study: Fatimatu Alhassan
Read moreMap out a journey of progression
Level 6 Improvement Leader Apprenticeship
Effective improvement leadership is critical to organisational success. Delivered in partnership with the National College…
View courseC&G Level 7 Diploma for Senior Leaders
Advance to the highest level of leadership in social care. The C&G Level 7 Diploma…
View courseISEP Environmental Sustainability Skills For Managers
Develop the skills to manage sustainability effectively. The ISEP Environmental Sustainability Skills for Managers course…
View courseFrequently Asked Questions
How long does the Operations Manager apprenticeship take to complete?
What types of learning are involved in the Operations Manager apprenticeship?
How is progress assessed on the Operations Manager apprenticeship?
Who is eligible to enrol on the Operations Manager apprenticeship?
What roles is the Operations Manager apprenticeship suited to?
What commitment is required from learners during the apprenticeship?
How does the Operations Manager apprenticeship benefit employers?
What support is provided during the Operations Manager apprenticeship?
What opportunities are available after completing the Operations Manager apprenticeship?
How is the Level 5 Operations Manager apprenticeship funded?






