Senior Leader Apprenticeship | Future Leaders

Developing future leaders through innovative learning

At Vodafone, we want to be the trusted digital partner for families and business in the UK, by winning customer trust every day.

Our people are key to making this happen and we are passionate about supporting our talent in getting the skills and development they need to thrive and investing in our future leaders. This programme allows our people to get hands-on training and qualifications whilst being able to put the skills they learn into practice in their everyday roles at Vodafone. Investing in our future leaders helps us grow and deliver the best possible service for our customers.

Henley’s ability to facilitate large groups of learners, from a variety of backgrounds, with different interests, while designing the learning so it’s relevant to our specific needs is really beneficial to our business and people.

At Vodafone, we strive to support individuals looking to progress in their career and the Henley Future Leaders Programme forms a key pillar of this support.

Lucy Unwin, Head of Learning & Performance Business Partnering, Culture and Engagement

Entry requirements

This programme is aimed at G band top talent Vodafone employees. However Henley will consider any other applicants based on individual experience.

Learners are selected from across the business, having been identified as high potential individuals, with clear aspirations to progress to a people leader role. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and skillsets, and especially encourage applications from individuals with under-represented backgrounds.

ESFA Apprenticeship eligibility criteria
The government funds the apprenticeship through the employer's apprenticeship levy. Applicants should first check they are eligible to receive apprenticeship funding

Required professional experience
Applicants should have fewer than 3 years of managerial experience.

Apprentices on this programme must be in a role which allows for the application of the Senior Leader Apprenticeship criteria to be demonstrated and in which substantial new learning can be gained. The baseline assessment done as part of the application will help assess this.

Existing qualifications
2:1 degree or higher from a UK institution or equivalent OR five years of good professional experience.

English and maths requirements

Nominated learners MUST hold Level 2 qualifications in English and maths (i.e. GCSEs at Grades 9-4 or A*-C, or equivalent) before starting their Henley apprenticeship programme.

If you don't have Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths, you can complete a short Functional Skills programme alongside your apprenticeship.

The government has provided a useful link for those who may have mislaid their exam certificates. If you obtained your qualifications overseas, please send your certificates to AET@henley.ac.uk so they can be checked against the National database.

Find out more about English and maths requirements.

Insight sessions

The Apprenticeship Engagement Team are hosting a series of insight over the coming weeks to delve into the programme in further detail. To join us, please register by clicking the dates below:

Insight sessions - Line Managers

When an employee chooses to start an apprenticeship, they are embarking on a journey of growth and discovery. This journey represents a significant commitment, requiring them to balance their studies with their professional and personal responsibilities. As a line manager, your role is crucial in this process. You have the unique opportunity to positively influence your apprentice's progress, both in their personal development and professional growth. By providing the right support, you can help them navigate challenges, apply new knowledge effectively, and thrive within the organisation.

Join one of our upcoming webinars, where we will share practical ideas and recommendations on how to better support your apprentice. This session will cover:

• Understanding the apprenticeship journey: Gain insights into what apprenticeships entail and the typical challenges apprentices face.
• Effective support strategies: Learn about the best practices for mentoring and coaching your apprentice, and how to integrate their learning into day-to-day work.
• Balancing work and study: Discover how to help your apprentice manage their time effectively and balance their workload.
• Ensuring a supportive environment: Explore ways to create a positive and encouraging workplace culture that supports continuous learning and development.
• Insight session for line managers- view recording here

Insight sessions - Applicants

Join our Insight Session to discover how the Henley Senior Leader Apprenticeship can be a transformative step in your leadership journey. During this session, our Apprenticeship Engagement Team will:

• Outline the key features of the programme: Learn about the unique aspects that make our programme stand out.
• Highlight career benefits: See how this apprenticeship can significantly enhance your career
• Share success stories: Hear from past participants who have achieved remarkable growth and success.
  
  We will also host a Q&A Session at the end, so bring your questions along. This is your opportunity to gain valuable insights and clarity about the next steps.

• Insight session for applicants- view recording here

FAQs

What if I don’t have Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths/can't find my certificates?

Learners must have Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths (i.e GCSEs at Grades 9-4 or A*-C, or equivalent) before starting their Henley apprenticeship. If you don't have Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths, you can complete a short Functional Skills programme alongside your apprenticeship.

The government has provided a useful link for those who may have mislaid their exam certificates. If you obtained your qualifications overseas, please send your certificates to AET@henley.ac.uk so they can be checked against the National database.

Find out more about English and maths requirements.

How often will I be expected to attend face-to-face workshops at Henley?

Learners take part in 12 workshop days in total, typically delivered face to face and spread throughout the programme

What is off-the-job learning?

Download our essential guide to find out more about what off-the-job learning is, how much is required, and how Henley apprenticeship tutors can work with you and your line manager.