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Apprentices will learn to apply Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, alongside project and change management principles, to drive improvements and solve complex problems that enhance business performance.

Improvement Specialists are responsible for deploying improvement strategies, training others, and providing deep technical expertise in advanced Lean and Six Sigma principles. They help identify and deliver improvement opportunities aligned to key business goals, often working on multiple projects simultaneously. Typically, Improvement Specialists report to Improvement Leaders, who develop improvement strategies and governance processes. They manage Improvement Practitioners, who lead smaller projects, and use their advanced knowledge to coach and develop others.

Working closely with other Improvement Specialists, apprentices will develop expertise in visualising processes, solving problems, and using graphical and statistical analysis to drive change. They will gain hands-on experience in managing and supporting projects, collaborating with stakeholders, and delivering impactful results aligned with business objectives. This apprenticeship prepares apprentices for roles such as Business Improvement Specialist, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, and Process Improvement Coordinator, with opportunities to progress into more senior positions, such as Improvement Leader.

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Key Facts

Duration

18 Months

Funding Band

£9,000

Delivery Location

National

Qualification

On successful completion, apprentices will achieve a Improvement Specialist Level 5 Apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship details

The Improvement Specialist Level 5 Apprenticeship equips apprentices with the skills to lead complex improvement projects across industries, focusing on Lean, Six Sigma, and change management methods. Apprentices will drive strategic improvements, manage projects, and coach teams to optimise processes and achieve business goals.

 

What it covers:

Knowledge

  • Leading teams: Motivational techniques, leadership styles, and team development.
  • Project planning: Business case development, risk management, and financial planning.
  • Change management: Strategies for managing resistance and stakeholder engagement.
  • Lean and Six Sigma tools: Methods like Define-Measure-Analyse-Improve-Control and 8D.
  • Data analysis: Advanced statistical methods, root cause analysis, and process mapping.

Skills

  • Leading teams: Ensuring project delivery and managing stakeholder relationships.
  • Strategic deployment: Contributing to continuous improvement and influencing culture.
  • Communication: Presenting proposals and capturing progress.
  • Process optimisation: Identifying and applying Lean and Six Sigma tools.
  • Change planning: Designing engagement and communication strategies.
  • Project selection: Identifying and prioritising improvement opportunities.

Behaviours

  • Drive for results: Motivating teams and stakeholders to deliver improvements.
  • Teamwork: Leading and supporting cross-functional teams.
  • Professionalism: Demonstrating ethical behaviour and flexibility.
  • Process thinking: Fostering data-driven decision-making.
  • Continuous development: Supporting self and team growth.
  • Safe working: Ensuring safety and compliance.

Apprentices will gain the expertise to lead improvement initiatives, drive change, and build long-term improvement capability within organisations.

Delivery

Our Skills Development Tutors will visit apprentices on-site, working with them to meet employer’s specific needs and expectations.

Entry requirements

applicants must have a minimum of Level 2 in maths and English, as well as the completion of the Improvement Practitioner Level 4 or Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. Applicants should be currently working in a continuous improvement role, with the opportunity to lead the deployment of the organisation's improvement strategy and train and mentor others to drive improvement across the business.

Progression

Apprentices can progress to roles like Continuous Improvement Manager, Process Excellence Manager or Business Improvement Lead. They may also advance to senior leadership positions or pursue further qualifications.

 

 

If you’re ready to unlock your business’s potential, or have any questions about our services, we’d love to hear from you.

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