Improvement Leader Apprenticeship

Level 6

Business improvement leaders are pivotal in developing and executing enhancement strategies for their organisations. This apprenticeship is for senior professionals who drive continuous innovation, equipping them with the skills to strategically deploy transformation initiatives, manage organisational change, and deliver tangible return on investment.

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  • Qualification level: Level 6
  • Typical entry requirements: Individual employers will set their own entry requirements; typically Improvement Level 5 qualification or equivalent
  • Duration: 18 - 24 months
  • Standard name: ST0556 Improvement Leader Level 6

Who is it for?

This apprenticeship is aimed at leaders who operate across all business functions, typically reporting to board members or department heads.

Improvement Leaders are accountable for large-scale, high-priority projects, identifying growth opportunities, and designing new processes, products, or services. While often office-based, their work extends to wherever improvement activities are focused, from factory floors to customer sites.

Responsibilities

  • Developing and leading improvement strategy to meet business objectives
  • Leading large-scale, complex initiatives and sustainability programmes
  • Implementing processes and resources to support strategy deployment, including structured project reviews
  • Leading, training and coaching a team of Improvement Specialists and senior stakeholders
  • Designing and sourcing training solutions for the business

Improvement Leaders have high-level expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, Project and change management and are recognised specialists in driving strategy.

Funding

This Apprenticeship standard has been allocated a maximum funding cap of £15,000, which is the anticipated full cost for delivering this standard and the End-Point Assessment (EPA).

Key documents & guidance

Qualification Specification
Standard and Assessment Plan
Qualification Specification

How it works

The Improvement Leader apprenticeship is a practical, work-based route towards developing professionally competent improvement managers and leaders. It includes:

  • Work-based learning, which means that the apprentice is in paid employment for the duration of their apprenticeship and receives on the job training and support
  • Business education through an approved apprenticeship training provider

Through both of the above, apprentices are able to acquire essential knowledge and skills to prepare for their End-Point Assessment.

Why choose CMI

Backed by our Royal Charter

Only CMI can award Foundation Chartered Manager (fCMgr) or Chartered Manager (CMgr) status on completion of an apprenticeship, depending on experience.

CMI Study Support Package

Our additional Study Support Package provides tailored resources, expert advice, and career insights to support apprentices’ assignments and development.

Professional Development

The apprenticeship delivers a professional pathway and the ongoing development of knowledge, skills and behaviours required by employers.

Supported Digital Delivery

Digital support is available, with content and practical resources mapped to the apprenticeship standard.

Common Questions

Which training providers will be able to deliver it?
To be able to deliver an apprenticeship, a provider must be registered on the Apprenticeship Provider and Assessment Register (APAR)
How is it assessed?
All apprenticeships are required to have an End-Point Assessment that is carried out by an independent body (an End-Point Assessment Organisation). Apprentices must pass this in order to achieve their apprenticeship and receive their certificate.

The End-Point Assessment for the Improvement Leader apprenticeship consists of a dissertation focussed on the development and deployment of improvement strategy within an organisation, and a professional discussion based on a portfolio of evidence gathered during the training phase.
How is the apprenticeship quality assured?
End-Point Assessment of the Apprenticeship is regulated by Ofqual.
Is this apprenticeship certificated?
Yes - apprentices who successfully complete all aspects of the apprenticeship will receive a full apprenticeship certificate.