Course Overview
You need to be employed to start an Apprenticeship. Please visit our vacancy page or if you have an employer, please ensure you add full contact details of your employer within your application. If you are unable to secure employment, you could enrol on a full-time study programme and transfer to an Apprenticeship at a later date. Please apply for a full-time course as your second option.
Operations managers undertake leadership and management duties with teams and senior managers where there is a requirement to ensure that teams carry out their role to meet organisational goals. They are a key component of all types of business model where there is an operational area or department with a workforce to lead, manage and support.
The broad purpose of the occupation is a leadership role, with operational and project responsibilities. An operations manager will have responsibility for managing individuals or a team. They provide direction, instructions, and guidance to ensure the achievement of set goals.They are vital for the smooth functioning of all departments in any organisation and are often responsible for ensuring their function is correctly administered and maintained in line with legislation and the organisation’s policies and procedures.
Operations managers will provide clear, and inclusive leadership and direction relating to their area of responsibility within an organisation. Typically, this involves setting, managing, and monitoring achievement of core objectives that are aligned to the overall strategic objectives of their organisation. In a smaller organisation they are also likely to contribute to the execution and achievement of the strategic objectives.
Roles may include: Operations Manager, Regional Manager, Area Manager, General Manager, Department Manager and Specialist Manager.
The apprenticeship standard covers a wide range of management skills and knowledge, including organisational performance, interpersonal skills and personal effectiveness, comprised of a range of duties.
Topics may include:
- Managing self
- Awareness of self and others
- Leading and managing others
- Governance
- Resource and Finance management
- Operational Planning
- Stakeholder Management
- Change and risk management
- Project Management
There is the potential to complete an additional CMI L5 Diploma in Management and Leadership at an additional cost of £609.
Assessment Methods
- Attendance at planned online sessions using MS Teams which will take place on Thursdays in accordance with the learning journey for those completing the Apprenticeship Standard only, or on Tuesdays using a hybrid delivery of online sessions and attendance at the Taunton campus for those completing the additional optional CMI Diploma in Management at Leadership.
- Regular progress reviews and assessment feedback (involving your employer and your assessor / trainer)
- Creation of a portfolio demonstrating learning and development activities within the workplace, underpinned by research and learning activities using CMi Management Direct.
- Professional discussion, underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
- Project report, presentation and questioning.
Throughout the apprenticeship, you will work towards the End Point assessment (EPA) which will include:
Progression Options
On completion, apprentices can register as full members with the Chartered Management Institute and/or the Institute of Leadership and Management, and those with 3 years of management experience can apply for Chartered Manager status through the CMI.
You could progress to a Level 6 Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship if you are in a suitable position.
Entry Requirements
You should have achieved qualifications in English and Mathematics at a minimum of level 2 (GCSE) or equivalent.
You may hold management and leadership qualification such as the CMI Certificate in First Line Management, L3 ILM/ CMI, NVQ Level 4 in Management.
You must be employed in a suitable position, or be progressing to a suitable role as part of your career development.
Frequently Asked Questions
The application route depends on your chosen study mode. For full-time undergraduate degrees, you will need to apply via UCAS. If you are applying for a part-time course, a professional qualification, or a Degree Apprenticeship, you can usually apply directly through our website using the ‘Apply Now’ button on the course page. If you need any guidance, our Admissions team is always on hand to help.
Every programme at University Centre Somerset is designed as a ‘Degree for Real Life.’ We focus heavily on employability, meaning your studies will be directly linked to industry needs. You will benefit from work-based learning, live commercial briefs, and our strong regional employer networks. Additionally, our dedicated Careers team offers 1:1 guidance to help you refine your CV, prepare for interviews, and build your professional network.
Transitioning to higher education is a significant step, and we treat you as an independent adult while providing robust support. You will be assigned a personal academic tutor to guide your academic progress. We also offer dedicated Higher Education study skills sessions, library support, and a comprehensive Student Support team providing confidential advice on mental health, wellbeing, and financial concerns.
Most UK students studying a first degree, Foundation Degree, or HND are eligible for tuition fee and maintenance loans through Student Finance England. If you are studying a Degree Apprenticeship, your tuition fees are fully funded by your employer and the government, and you earn a salary while you learn. We also offer advice on eligible bursaries and financial hardship funds – contact our Student Support team for tailored advice.
Yes. We offer dedicated, independent student accommodation tailored for our higher education learners, primarily based at our Taunton and Cannington campuses. Our HE options provide a safe, comfortable, and mature environment that fosters a strong learning community, with easy access to our state-of-the-art campus facilities.
Absolutely. We welcome applications from mature students and those with non-traditional qualifications. We consider a wide range of experience, including vocational qualifications, Access to HE diplomas, and relevant professional experience. If you are unsure whether your current qualifications meet the entry criteria, please get in touch with our admissions team to discuss your individual pathway.
We understand that many of our HE students balance their studies with employment and family commitments. We strive to condense our full-time degree timetables into a few days a week to allow for part-time work or independent study. Our part-time routes are specifically designed to be flexible for working professionals.
We are here to help. You can submit a direct enquiry using the form our Contact page, or you can contact our Higher Education admissions team via email or phone. We also highly recommend registering for our next Open Event, where you can speak directly with the lecturers and tour our advanced facilities.
