Programme structure
The Senior Leader Apprenticeship has a September and January entry point in each academic year and is expected to take 24 months to complete on the standard route. Apprentices with recognised prior learning may be able to complete sooner. Applicants employed less than 30 hours per week may be able to study the apprenticeship over a longer duration. Apprentices attend a range of university sessions delivered through a combination of block release, evening and online taught sessions. Apprentices are supported by a supervisor within the university and a workplace mentor, to ensure that gains by both the apprentice and their organisations are maximised.
Apprentices must spend at least 20% of their time on off-the-job training. Delivery is a blend of evening and block delivery supported by sessions and supporting materials accessed through the virtual learning environment. Apprentices will be expected to attend lectures/workshops and have the opportunity to use the university library facilities and to meet with module or programme leaders. Outside of term time apprentices will be undertaking independent study and developing their knowledge and skills through practical application in the workplace.
Apprentices benefit from access to online teaching materials, videos and tutorials facilitated through the University’s online learning portal. Off-the-job learning hours include university studies as well as workplace activities and projects which are undertaken specifically for the apprenticeship, furthering the development of knowledge, skills and behaviours in new areas.
While studying, apprentices will benefit from membership of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and the Institute of Directors (IOD).
Teaching and assessment
Approaches to teaching are based on engagement with capable professionals, and developing reflective practitioners. As engagement with specific subject content and understanding grow, apprentices are made aware of how issues from the specific subject area are integrated within a more holistic understanding of the nature of management. The programme encourages the group to explore different perspectives from their diverse backgrounds and varied occupational experiences.
With its clear focus on practical wisdom, Brighton leverages the skills of both academics and practitioners to teach a useful mix of theory and practice so that both long-term and short-term gains can be realised by each apprentice.
In addition to the Leadership Postgraduate Diploma, apprentices will complete a reflective ePortfolio in addition to undertaking a workplace-based strategic Business Proposal project, designed to allow them to use their new skills to the full. Other assessment methods include:
- time controlled assessments
- presentations
- exam-like question
- supervised group work
- project outline
- topic proposal and e-based assessment
- reflective statement
- group presentations.
On completion of the postgraduate diploma, Apprentices complete an End Point Assessment (EPA) with the Chartered Management Institute to meet the apprenticeship standard.
Employer and apprentice commitments
In order to deliver the programme, the employer undertakes to:
- conduct a workplace induction and set out a contract of employment
- provide an appropriately qualified workplace mentor to supervise and monitor the progress of the apprentice
- attend apprentice's progress review (twice a year)
- release apprentice for scheduled off-the-job learning and continue to provide protected time to undertake self-directed study outside of term time
- have an Apprenticeship Agreement in place from the start of the programme
- to provide opportunities in the workplace to meet work-based learning requirements.
Throughout the programme, apprentices will:
- attend the workplace for the agreed pattern as set out in the apprenticeship agreement
- maintain an up to date log of hours spent on training sessions and off-the-job learning
- attend scheduled university learning sessions and complete all assessments as required by the university and End Point Assessment Organisation
- behave in a safe and responsible manner at the workplace and university
- engage with regular progress reviews
- complete, throughout the apprenticeship, a professional development portfolio.
Fees and funding information for apprentices
Course fees
As an apprentice the cost of your learning programme is covered by your employer through their Digital Apprenticeship Service (DAS) account.
Student finance
Higher and degree level apprentices are not eligible for any element of student finance. This is because they receive a salary instead of the student loan package. However, if you are experiencing any financial difficulties, please contact the Student Advice Service on 01273 642 888.
Learning support
Apprentices studying at Higher and degree level may be able to access funding in relation to additional support but this is available through the university and not Disabled Students Allowance. Apprentices may also be able to apply for Access to Work funding for work-based equipment and software. Please contact the Disability and Dyslexia team on 01273 643 799.
Living costs and benefits
Higher and degree level apprentices must fulfil the standard eligibility criteria in order to apply for means tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit and Housing Benefit. If you have any questions about entitlement to benefits, please contact the Student Advice Service on 01273 643 888.
Higher and degree level apprentices who are undertaking a full-time mode of study can be treated as being exempt from paying Council Tax. Although some programmes require study on a day-release arrangement, this can still be classed as full-time study. You will need to obtain a letter from the Student Information Desk at any campus and send this to your Council Tax department when you enrol on the programme.
Other
Brighton and Hove bus discount
NUS card