Will I get a qualification for this programme and is it recognised outside of the University?

Yes, on successful completion of the programme you will achieve the Coaching Professional Apprenticeship which is a level 5 qualification. In addition you will receive individual accreditation with the European Mentoring and Coaching council (EMCC). The EMCC is an internationally recognised coaching and mentoring professional body.

What time commitment do I need to make?

You will be supported with 20% ‘off the job’ development by the University. This includes 317 hours of guided learning over the duration of the programme. In addition you will need to identify further work-based learning activities to equate to the 20% of off the job hours required. As an example, if you work full-time, you will need to undertake 100 additional hours of work-based learning activity.

What is meant by 20% ‘off the job’?

All activities which enable someone doing an apprenticeship to perform better in their role, qualifies as an ‘off the job’ activity. Much of this can occur during routine work activities.

Examples of off the job learning activities:

• Attending live facilitated webinars.
• Working 1-1 with your own professional Coach-Mentor Supervisor from The OCM.
• Coaching up to 8 coachees.
• Taking part in Action Learning Sets.
• Completing e-learning and other online activities.
• Completing reflection notes and self-assessments.
• Taking part in your PDR.
• Reading relevant books and articles.
• Informal coaching conversations.
• End Point Assessment preparation.

How long does the programme take?

For colleagues who work 30 hours per week or more the programme is 14 months (1st November 2021 - 31st December 2022).

For colleagues who work fewer than 30 hours per week the programme is 16-22 months depending on your contractual hours. A cohort is planned to start in February 2022 subject to minimum numbers of participants being achieved.

Are there any entry requirements?

You will need to have passed Maths and English at minimum grade C GCSE, or equivalent. A higher qualification in Maths and English (e.g. A-level/degree) is relevant. Qualifications in subjects other than English and Maths cannot be accepted. Certificates must state 'English' or 'Mathematics'. You also need to have completed your probationary period and not be subject to any disciplinary procedures, and be able to complete the 14 month programme.

What happens if I start the programme and we go into another lockdown?

The programme is designed to be delivered fully online. The OCM continued to deliver development programmes throughout previous lockdowns and will continue to do so moving forward.

What will happen if I start the programme and need to stop, or miss a session due to work commitments, holidays or illness?

Missing the workshop sessions should be avoided. In unavoidable circumstances you will be supported to catch-up via discussions with your line manager and The OCM. If you miss a session through pre-planned holiday, short illness etc, arrangements will be made to support you to catch-up. If you are off for a long period of time then your programme can be paused.

What support will I get and from whom?

You will have support from The OCM trainers, your Coach-Mentor Supervisor, your line manager and the Leadership and Management Development department.

Will it cost me anything?

The cost of the apprenticeship is funded via the University's contribution to the National Apprenticeship Levy. You do not make a contribution to this, however the University is not able to reimburse any travel expenses.

Where does the training take place?

The programme is designed to be fully delivered online, however we aim to hold some sessions in-person on campus as and when it is safe to do so.