Apprenticeship Programme Manager.

About the Company

Established in 1972 and based in an idyllic Cotswold manor house, you’ll join a team of passionate educators helping learners gain professional qualifications in accountancy and finance.

The Apprenticeship Manager will oversee the delivery and management of accountancy apprenticeship programmes at Levels 2, 3, 4, and 7. This role includes managing a team of skills coaches, ensuring high-quality training and support for apprentices, and maintaining compliance with relevant standards and regulations. The Apprenticeship Manager will work closely with employers, and internal stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of apprenticeship programmes. Additionally, the manager will oversee the development and implementation of new Level 4 accountancy programmes in collaboration with end-point assessment organisations and adapt to changes in apprenticeship standards and delivery models.

About the Role

Key Responsibilities:

• Programme Management:
• Oversee the planning, delivery, and evaluation of accountancy apprenticeship programmes at Levels 2, 3, 4, and 7, incl. new starter season, EPA requirements, exit reviews, withdrawal analysis and overarching quality and data compliance.
• Ensure programmes meet the standards set by relevant awarding bodies and regulatory agencies, in collaboration with the Head of Accountancy Programmes.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve apprenticeship completion rates and learner satisfaction.
• Manage the potential creation and implementation of new Level 4 accountancy apprenticeship programmes in collaboration with end-point assessment organisations and/ or create solutions to any changes to the current standards and apprenticeship provision.
• Support the implementation of changes of the accountancy qualification and apprenticeship programme, ensuring fit for purpose plans, documentation, processes and communication.

• Team Leadership:
• Manage and support the apprenticeship administration team and a team of performance coaches, providing guidance, training, and performance management.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Conduct regular team meetings and one-on-one sessions to monitor progress and address any issues, incl. compliance with off the job and progress review targets.

• Stakeholder Engagement:
• Build and maintain strong relationships with employers, funding agency and other key stakeholders.
• Act as the point of contact for the internal team regarding apprenticeship programmes.
• Organise and participate in employer engagement activities to promote apprenticeship opportunities and successes.

• Quality Assurance:
• Monitor and evaluate the quality of training and assessment provided by performance coaches.
• Together with the Quality Manager ensure regular audits and observations are carried out to ensure compliance with internal and external standards.
• Together with the Quality Manager complete the annual Self Assessment Report and QIP. Implement continuous improvement initiatives based on feedback and performance data.

• Compliance and Reporting:
• Ensure all apprenticeship programmes comply with the Education Inspection Framework and DfE funding requirements.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay updated on changes in apprenticeship standards and regulations.
• Oversee apprenticeship compliance audits from ESFA, Ofsted, and internal reviews.

• Adaptation to Changes:
• Oversee and manage the adaptation of apprenticeship programmes to changes in standards and delivery models.
• Ensure that all programmes remain current and aligned with industry requirements and best practices
• Proactive Quality Management:
• Proactively review and respond to trends and quality feedback, such as exit reviews and withdrawal analysis.
• Implement strategies to address identified issues and improve overall programme quality.

• System Management:
• Oversee and implement the development of solutions in the e-portfolio system OneFile to enhance the tracking and management of apprentice progress.
• Oversee the development of Prosolution to ensure full utilisation of the system along with accurate data/information capturing
• Learner Support:
• Provide accurate and up to date guidance to all staff regarding the apprenticeship learning journey, e.g. application of funding rules, ensuring the compliance of all documentation and processes with relevant standards and regulations.
• Address any concerns or issues raised by apprentices or employers promptly.
• Promote a positive learning environment and encourage apprentice engagement and retention.

Qualifications and Experience

• Essential:
• Proven experience in managing apprenticeship programmes, preferably in the accountancy sector.
• Strong understanding of apprenticeship standards and frameworks at Levels 2, 3, 4, and 7
• Experience of implementing apprenticeship programmes in line with funding rules and regulatory requirements including Ofsted and the Education Inspection Framework.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Desirable:
• Relevant qualifications in education, training, or management.