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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
At a glance:
Level: Level 5
Duration: 21 Months
Funding: Up to 100% Funded
Delivery Method: Blended
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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:
Government Funding Prospects up to 100%
National Insurance Savings
Increased Talent Retention
Elevated Team Productivity
Greater Team Confidence
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
Entry requirements
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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
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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 More
Off-The-Job Activities can be:
Attending Team Meetings
Shadowing Team Members
Attending Work Events
Mandatory Training and e-Learning
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 guide
1. 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

Month
1-6
  • E-learning – CIAG / Prevent / Leadership
  • Influencing engagement
  • Strategic thinking
  • Organisational awareness
  • Humanistic leadership
  • People leadership
Month
7-12
  • People development
  • Business continuity
  • Project blueprint
  • Leading innovation
  • Business financials
  • Project execution
Month
13-18
  • Organisational governance
  • Sustainability culture
  • Influence with impact
  • People power
  • Operational success
  • Project impact
Month
19-21
  • Preparations for your End Point Assessment (EPA)
  • Progression IAG Session
EPA
This is the final stage of an apprenticeship, usually lasting around three months, and typically involves a portfolio review, professional discussion and a practical or presentation-based assessment by an independent assessor, after which successful completion of the apprenticeship is awarded.

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. 
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship Enrolment Enquiry
Download our Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship learner guide
Download our Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship employer guide
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