Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship Programme
Who is it for?
Applications are now open for the fourth cohort of our fully funded Level 5 Operations Manager Programme — a two-year development opportunity designed for Grade 5/6 managers with both line management and project management responsibilities.
This comprehensive programme covers essential operational management topics such as finance and budgeting, while also delving into more strategic leadership elements to support your continued growth.
- Applications close: 10th March 2026
- Spaces available: 15
- Programme start date: April 2026
Online Information Session
Join us on Wednesday 25th February from 11:00 - 12:00 to hear more about this programme. No booking required!
***Applications are open until 10th March 2026 for the next cohort commencing in April 2026 ***
Skills areas covered in the programme linked to the University of Warwick Leadership framework.
Core modules on the programme
- People Management – recruitment, resource planning, performance management, reward, recognition, and talent development.
- Ethics & Wellbeing – ethical leadership models, ethical systems, wellbeing, and staff support.
- Leadership Skills – tools and techniques for motivating and managing teams.
- Governance & Inclusion – legislation, organisational policies, EDI principles, and governance requirements.
- Risk & Sustainability – business continuity, risk management, and sustainable operational approaches.
- Strategy & Stakeholders – strategic planning, operational planning, and stakeholder relationship management.
- Project Management – research, scoping, planning, budgeting, change management, decision‑making, and project closure.
- Communication Skills – reporting, presenting, and preparing for assessments.
What qualifications / accreditation will I get?
At completion you will get the following:-
1 - Operations Manager Apprenticeship Level 5
2 - ILM/ CMI membership
What are the entry requirements?
1. You will need to be a UK citizen or meet the eligibility for funding, please refer to the funding criteria.
2. You need to have passed your probationary period at University of Warwick.
4. If you have a fixed term contract, your employment contract will need to be at least 30 months so it is longer than the duration of the apprenticeship.
How long is the programme?
The programme is for 24 months. 20% of your working time each week (roughly 6-8 hours) will need to be spent on this programme. We have selected a training programme where there is some flexibility on the dates and times of the learning modules and all sessions are delivered online.
How is the programme delivered?
• Tutoring / Coaching and Mentoring • Webinars/ Workshops • Assignments • Self Study • Peer mentoring • Warwick Community of Practice.
How much does it cost?
The cost of the programme is £7,000 and will be fully covered by the University’s apprenticeship levy. It is worth noting that this funding is not able to cover any other costs, for example the costs of any professional registration or top up qualifications, travel or equipment if needed. As this course is delivered online, it not expected to incur additional costs.
What will the programme involve?
20% of your time (roughly 6 hours per week) will need to be spent each working week on the programme (this is a requirement of using the apprenticeship levy funding) and the hours and learning will need to be documented in your portfolio. (Guidance and templates will be supplied to do this). We have selected a training provider where there is some flexibility in the dates and times you access these which means that it doesn’t have to be a set day/time every week
During the onboarding onto the programme, your learning needs and styles will be discussed to put together a personal learning plan and there will be a series of learner review meetings included in the programme.
Course modules offer flexible date options to suit your current and upcoming work projects. Two additional modules can be added from any other course on offer from our training provider, for example, HR or procurement, allowing for a very bespoke and flexible learning journey for each learner.
What is required by the line manager?
There will be touchpoints throughout the programme where the Line Manager will be required to support you.
· Review apprentice’s skills and module assessments
·Utilise the online portfolio
· Assist with the creation of the apprentice’s learning journey (adding in work-based targets and objectives)
· Participate in the 12 weekly impact and progress reviews
· Support the learner to achieve spend 20% of their time each week completing the programme
·Guide and support with work-based projects / tasks relevant to programme
·Support the learner with preparation for the End Point Assessment
Note: Line managers will also need to complete a sign‑off form for this programme.
How do I apply?
***Applications close on 10th March 2026***
We currently have 3 active cohorts on this programme. We will be launching more cohorts in 2026 - July and November. Applications will open 2 months before.
There are 15 spaces per cohort, with the opportunity to learn with others from different organisations as well as with those working at Warwick.
Complete this application form. Note: Your Line Manager will also need to complete a sign off form.
Next Steps
Your application will be reviewed against the funding eligibility criteria and the opportunity to apply the learning within your jobrole. Your Line Manager will also be contacted to sign off your application.
You will be contacted by the team in late March to let you know if you have been successful in gaining a place on this programme.