Senior Leader Apprenticeship | Future Leaders (+MSc)
The Henley Postgraduate Diploma in Management for Future Leaders is a Level 7 apprenticeship that develops graduate talent and emerging leaders.
At a glance
- Nurture your graduate talent and develop their capabilities as emerging leaders
- Empower your future leaders to support organisational change
- Features the option to progress onto Stage 3 of the MSc in Management for Future Leaders
- Subject area(s)
- Leadership, Management
- Qualification level
-
Level 7
- Attendance
- Part-time
- Fee
- £14,000 (can be funded by your organisation's apprenticeship service account)
- Course length
- Up to 21 months including end-point assessment (EPA)
- Suitable for
- Recent graduates looking to kickstart their leadership careers; early career employees identified as high potential
Overview
The Senior Leader Apprenticeship | Future Leaders programme is a unique opportunity for recent graduates to develop. Apprentices will build on their existing academic and professional skills. This will prepare them to become senior business leaders who can manage their responsibilities effectively. The work-based teaching and support will expand learners' capabilities to fast track their careers, even if they are just beginning.
Apprentices will build an in-depth understanding of strategic management, relationship building, corporate responsibility and change. Our combined approach of theory and on-the-job practice supports learners to become knowledgeable and competent in real-world business scenarios.
Changes are coming to the apprenticeship levy
So now is the time to choose our Level 7 programmes as a gateway to success. We’re maximising spaces on this programme before funding opportunities end.
On completion of the Senior Leader Apprenticeship we are providing a unique opportunity to ‘top up’ to Henley's MSc Management for Future Leaders.
Key benefits
Develop your future leaders to support transformation within your organisation
Support staff retention by investing in the development of your employees
Work-based learning can be a powerful vehicle for developing workplace skills and increasing productivity
Join our Insight Session to discover how the Henley Senior Leader Apprenticeship prepares future leaders to drive impactful change. 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.
Programme start date |
Nominations due |
14 May 2025 |
Closing soon |
3 September 2025 |
11 June 2025 |
24 September 2025 |
2 July 2025 |
21 October 2025 |
29 July 2025 |
Contact the Apprenticeship Engagement Team for the latest programme schedule for your chosen start date.
Apprenticeship programmes are taught using a blended learning method that combines face-to-face workshops with online and on-the-job learning.
Personal development
Personal development for future leaders is integral to the programme and is embedded throughout the course. The programme includes two workshop days for personal development, which enables apprentices to reflect and encourages them to develop positive new behaviours.
Leading and managing, strategically and responsibly
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
Strategic management (MNM1STM)Strategy is contentious and in addressing the topic, this module explores how and where firms create competitive advantage in their markets. In doing so, it will introduce students to strategy and strategic marketing with well established theories, frameworks and models used by strategists and they will explore how they are applied in practice. This module challenges the learner to answer core questions which face business leaders today.
Academic authors
Dr Andrew Hull
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Managing innovation and change (MNM1MIC)This module builds on the selection of strategies and models which learners may want to use in order to innovate new products and services in their organisations. The module offers It building innovation skills and capabilities by setting up a new venture or by developing and testing innovative ideas in existing companies. Aims: We develop theoretical and practical understanding of the function of innovation and the process of new product development from idea to testing and validating new products, processes and organizational routines and by teams, organizations and markets. Academic authors
Dr Fabio Goncalves de Oliveira
|
15 [7.5 ECTS credits] |
Corporate responsibility and ethics (MNM1CRE)Corporate responsibility and ethics have become a major topic of debate and concern in contemporary society, but also an area of managerial importance for organisations and their leaders. This module allows practising managers to:
Academic authors
Dr Filipe Morais
|
10 [5 ECTS credits] |
Financial management (MNM1FIN)This module aims to equip students with relevant accounting and financial management knowledge in decision making, especially for those who have little background in accounting and financial management. Read moreThe module covers relevant topics in the areas of financial accounting, management accounting and financial management, with a focus on the ability to understand the importance of accounting and financial information in decision making and critical evaluation of the use of relevant information in decision making. Aims: To build on a student’s knowledge of management by examining the role and techniques of accounting and financial management. Academic authors
Professor Liang Han
|
15 [7.5 ECTS credits] |
Personal development for future leaders (MNM1PDFL)The Personal Development for Future Leaders module is an integrated and holistic part Senior Leader Apprenticeship (Future Leaders) and is split over the 2 stages of the programme. It seeks to support and challenge future leaders in all aspects of their growth while studying and is a catalyst for reflection on learning from all other modules and aspects of this programme. The module aims to equip the apprenticeship learner to reflect upon their own learning, performance and achievement, and plan for their personal, educational and career development. This module is delivered throughout the three stages of study; each stage address specific areas of personal development: Stage 1 – Leading self
Academic authors
Dr Obiageli Heidelberger-Nkenke
|
10 |
Leading and managing people for high performance and impact
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
Finding your leadership DNA (MNM2DNA)Finding your leadership DNA places practising managers at the centre of their development as effective change leaders, faced with real dilemmas, and choices about courses of action. Through exploration of the links between leadership, the change context, culture, and change practice, they will be able to make informed decisions about how to mobilise the leadership and change resources at their disposal (individually and collectively). Key themes covered include:
Academic authors
Dr Loua Khalil
|
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Managing people and organisations (MNM2MPO)Talented people are your company’s most valuable asset and, bottom line, the key to success. However, it takes sophisticated conceptual and analytical skills to deliver this. It needs a deep understanding of people in an organisational context. This module provides the tools and frameworks to allow you to thrive in the world of Managing People and Organisations. Every business decision has an impact on its workforce. Talented people are an organisations most valuable asset and, bottom line, one of the main keys to success. The aim of this module is to give learners the confidence to challenge existing workplace thinking by using good theoretical understanding and practical reasoning. They will engage with real life business cases and learn how to assess factors shaping Managing People and Organisations, which may include:
However, it takes sophisticated conceptual and analytical skills to deliver this. It needs a deep understanding of people in an organisational context. Academic authors
Dr Washika Haak-Saheem
|
15 [7.5 ECTS credits] |
Personal development for future leaders II (MNM2PDF2)The Personal Development for Future Leaders module is an integrated and holistic part Senior Leader Apprenticeship (Future Leaders) and is split over the 2 stages of the programme. It seeks to support and challenge future leaders in all aspects of their growth while studying and is a catalyst for reflection on learning from all other modules and aspects of this programme. The module aims to equip the apprenticeship learner to reflect upon their own learning, performance and achievement, and plan for their personal, educational and career development. This module is delivered throughout the three stages of study; each stage address specific areas of personal development: Stage 2 – Leading Others
Academic authors
Dr Obiageli Heidelberger-Nkenke
|
10 |
Strategic business proposal
The final stage of the apprenticeship is the end-point assessment (EPA), comprising an Evidence portfolio and final Strategic business proposal.
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
Strategic business proposal (MNM3SBP)This module sets out to provide knowledge, skills and behaviours required by senior leaders in today’s world. The Senior Leader Apprenticeship programmes provides learners with the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to put together an effective strategic business proposal. At the end of this apprenticeship programme, the learner must decide upon a title and scope for the strategic business proposal, which is signed off by the End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO). Academic authors
Dr Anne Dibley
|
15 [7.5 ECTS credits] |
Modules or course content marked as optional are indicative and may be subject to change. Please note, constraints in timetable scheduling may mean you are unable to take some optional modules at the same time as others.
Integrated learning approach
- Combines on-the-job learning with formal and informal off-the-job training.
- Includes taught sessions, workshops, one-to-one mentoring, and self-study.
Off-the-job training
- Minimum 6 hours per week (equivalent to working hours).
- Delivered through activities both at Henley and work like attending workshops or meetings, taking on new responsibilities, shadowing, or attending conferences.
Workplace application
- Apprentices continue their day job, applying their new knowledge, skills and behaviours in real-time.
Line manager support
- Line managers play a vital role in the apprentice’s success.
- Engage with Henley tutors to facilitate training opportunities and work-based projects.
Read more on how to support an apprentice with the Henley Essential Apprenticeship Guides
Vicki Murray has over 20 years of experience as a manager and senior leader in a variety of educational settings with a specific focus on leading change and raising performance.
Assessment
Apprentices demonstrate the depth and impact of their learning by submitting work-based projects at the end of each module. These projects reflect practical application and mastery of key concepts.
Awards
On successful completion of the programme, apprentices will be awarded a:
- Henley Postgraduate Diploma in Management for Future Leaders
- Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship | Future Leaders.
For employers that choose the CMI as the end-point assessment organisation, apprentices may also achieve:
- CMI Level 7 Award in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice
- Chartered Manager Status (on successful EPA)
- CMI student membership (programme duration plus three months, with option for individuals to pay for full membership thereafter).
For employers
- Nomination and agreement
- Employers must formally nominate learners before they can apply for our apprenticeship programmes.
- A three-way agreement is required between the employer, the apprentice, and Henley Business School/University of Reading.
- Funding information
- The government funds the apprenticeship through the employer's apprenticeship levy.
For Individuals
To apply for an apprenticeship programme you must be formally nominated to Henley by your organisation.
Entry requirements
- Eligibility
- Must meet the ESFA Apprenticeship eligibility criteria.
- Check eligibility for apprenticeship funding through your employer.
- Professional experience
- Fewer than three years of managerial experience.
- Must hold a role that allows for the application of Senior Leader Apprenticeship criteria and provides opportunities for substantial new learning.
Qualifications
- Academic background
- A 2:1 degree or higher from a UK institution (or equivalent)
- OR five years of professional experience with managerial responsibilities.
Baseline assessment
- As part of the application, a baseline assessment will determine suitability for the programme.
Need further guidance with your application?
Email the Apprenticeship Engagement Team OR Book a call.
MSc Management for Future Leaders Stage 3
Apprentices who meet the requirements for the Postgraduate Diploma in Management for Future Leaders can choose to progress to Stage 3 of Henley’s MSc in Management for Future Leaders.
Key details for MSc progression:
- Credits transfer: If learners continue to the MSc, the credits earned in the Postgraduate Diploma will count toward Stages 1 and 2 of the MSc. In this case, learners will not receive the Postgraduate Diploma certificate.
- Graduate with the Diploma first: Learners can graduate with the Postgraduate Diploma and return to complete the MSc within three years. However, upon returning, the Postgraduate Diploma certificate will be rescinded as the credits are applied to the MSc.
- Additional costs: The MSc Stage 3 fee is £5,450, with an early bird discount of 10% for learners who express interest before the end of Stage 1 of the Senior Leader Apprenticeship.
Important note:
- Cohort Availability: Stage 3 may not be immediately available, requiring learners to wait 6–12 months after completing the Senior Leader Apprenticeship.
- Flexibility: Workshop and assignment submission dates may change. Henley Business School reserves the right to postpone programme start dates if minimum cohort numbers are not met.
MSc Management for Future Leaders Stage 3 fee: £5,450
An early bird discount of 10% is available to all learners who express an interest in progressing onto the MSc before the end of Stage 1 of the Senior Leader Apprenticeship | Future Leaders.
Find out more about Stage 3 of the MSc Management for Future Leaders
Senior Leader Apprenticeship | Future (+MSc): £14,000
- Funded via your organisation’s apprenticeship service account. (Employers must have an account to access the service.)
- Contact our apprenticeships team for more details
Progression to Stage 3 – MSc Management for Future Leaders: £5,450
- Early bird discount available!
Location
For clients wishing to run a closed cohort, we have the flexibility to deliver the programme at locations nationwide. If you do not wish to use your organisation's facilities, we are happy to arrange an alternative teaching venue that may be more convenient for your staff.
Open cohorts are also delivered at venues across the country. The first and last workshops are typically taught at our Greenlands campus near Henley-on-Thames. Set in sweeping parkland on the banks of the River Thames, this beautiful campus provides an inspiring and reflective environment for focused work and study.
Facilities
Through the Henley Business School Library and the virtual learning environment, learners can access a multitude of resources including books, journals, market research reports, dissertations, working papers and company information.
Why choose Henley?
For 75 years, Henley Business School has developed confident and resilient business leaders. Find out more about our approach to working with you
Our Apprenticeship programmes are rated Good by Ofsted across all areas - quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.
To ensure that apprentices’ work and training are well co-ordinated and effective, Henley’s tutors and line managers collaborate fully with employers and apprentices.
At Henley, we offer a full portfolio of programmes from early career all the way up to board level, and it’s this broad experience that enables us to have a clear and complete vision for our apprenticeship provision.
Contact us
For more information about Henley’s apprenticeship programmes please contact
Email: apprenticeships@henley.ac.ukTelephone: (0)118 378 4030
