Where will this course lead?

This apprenticeship will lead to the achievement of Level 4 Diploma in Commercial Procurement and Supply. The apprenticeship is suitable for those in both junior and senior procurement positions. Upon completion, typical roles can extend to a huge range of related commercial activity such as influencing policy, financial analysis, engaging in contract law, and developing strategy to deliver services. Individuals will be able to position themselves as fully effective, commercially skilled professionals, with transferable skills and career options that span the public, private and charitable sectors. All of this training will be developed within the apprenticeship.

What will I study?

As part of the apprenticeship, learners will be supported by the attainment of a Level 4 Diploma with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS).

The CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply is aimed at developing the skills and knowledge required for operational practice in procurement and supply management. The course provides comprehensive coverage of all of competences required for excellence in the profession, including understanding the business environment, data analysis, planning, sourcing, negotiation, contracting and suppler management. It enables professionals to gain the tools to maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of procurement and supply management activity. You'll study and be examined on 8 units:

L4M1 Scope & Influence of Procurement & Supply

L4M2 Defining Business need

L4M3 Commercial Contracting

L4M4 Ethical & responsible Sourcing

L4M5 Commercial Negotiation

L4M6 Supplier Relationships

L4M7 Whole life Asset Management

L4M8 Procurement & Supply in Practice

You may be required to study GCSE in Maths and English depending on your previous achievements.

How will this course be delivered?

The course is delivered through a combination of classroom teaching, practical workshops and independent learning/self- study.

You will attend college for face to face delivery for each unit, delivery schedule will be provided to all apprentices.

As an apprentice a vast amount of learning takes place 'on the job' through training and the practical application of your skills, knowledge and behaviours.

You will receive 1:1 support and coaching from an allocated assessor who will visit you in the workplace every six to eight weeks.

What qualifications will I get?

Upon successful completion of the gateway and end point assessment you will be awarded the Level 4 Diploma in Procurement & Supply and the Commercial Procurement & Supply Apprenticeship.

How will I be assessed?

Your progress and development will be assessed at regular stages throughout the apprenticeship - this is likely to be a combination of assignments, activities, professional discussions and observations in the workplace.

Prior to the end point assessment there is a requirement to achieve:

- Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths (GCSE equivalent), if not already achieved.

- L4 Diploma in Procurement & Supply with the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS).

The end-point assessment (EPA) consists of 2 distinct assessment methods:

- Project report

- Presentation & questioning

The EPA will typically be completed over a period of 6 months, after the apprentice has met the EPA gateway requirements.

Agreement from the apprentice's EPAO of title and scope of the project that the apprentice will complete during the EPA period, which will form the basis for the project report EPA component; the apprentice's employer must also agree the title and scope.

The apprentice must gain pass or distinction in the project report before undertaking the presentation & questioning assessment.

To pass the EPA, apprentices must achieve a pass or distinction in both assessment methods.

To achieve a distinction, apprentices must achieve a distinction in both assessment methods.

How do I get a place on the course?

Employers can receive advice and support from the Employer Services team at Solihull College and University Centre.

What are the entry requirements?

The entry requirement for this apprenticeship will be decided by each employer, but may typically be five GCSEs at Grade C or higher including English & Maths.