Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship

Summary

As a Senior Leader Level 7 apprentice, you can expect a high-level, work-based programme focused on developing your ability to lead strategically, manage resources, and drive sustainable, inclusive business practices.

You’ll gain the skills to set strategic direction, influence senior stakeholders, lead confidently through change, and represent your organisation with authority. This apprenticeship will elevate your leadership capabilities and equip you to drive meaningful impact at the highest levels of your organisation.

Including Chartered Management Institute (CMI) Level 7 in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice.

This course takes a minimum of 18 months to complete.

What is Level 7 Senior Leader?

A Senior Leader is a high-level professional who plays a key strategic role within an organisation. They are responsible for setting direction, making major decisions, and leading teams or entire departments to achieve the company’s goals.

Also known as Directors, Heads of Departments, or Senior Executives, Senior Leaders are responsible for setting strategic direction, driving organisational performance, and leading high-performing teams. They play a vital role in shaping culture, managing risk, and ensuring sustainable growth across the business.

A senior leader’s responsibilities can include:

Defining long-term vision and strategic objectives
Leading change and driving innovation across departments
Overseeing budgets, governance, and compliance
Developing leadership capabilities and succession planning
Building a strong culture of performance and accountability

Entry

Employers will set their own entry requirements in order to start this apprenticeship.

Duration

The minimum duration is 8 months, our recommended duration for this programme is 18 months.

Progression

On completion of the Senior Leader Level 7 apprenticeship, apprentices can apply for Chartered Manager Status with CMI.

Cost / Funding

Levy Payers – £14,000

Non Levy Payers – £840

All prices are inclusive of VAT

From 1 January 2026, government funding for the Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship will only be available for learners aged 16–21, or those under 25 who are care leavers or have an EHCP. Funding for learners aged 22+ will be removed, meaning most employers will need to commercially fund future Senior Leader programmes.

Level

Level 7

Functional skills

If an apprentice is aged 16-18 and has not previously achieved the required level of English and maths, they will need to complete Functional Skills as part of their apprenticeship programme.

While Functional Skills are no longer mandatory for adult apprentices (19+), literacy and numeracy skills remain essential for success.

For those without prior English and Maths qualifications, we recommend level 2 maths and level 2 English to support career growth and workplace efficiency.

Our tailored support ensures these skills are seamlessly integrated into the apprenticeship journey, helping every apprentice develop these vital skills.

End assessment

The End Point Assessment (EPA) for the Senior Leader Master’s Degree Apprenticeship includes:

Project Showcase, based on work-based project, including report, presentation and questioning
Professional Discussion, based on review of portfolio.

Professional support

You will be assigned a career coach for the duration of the apprenticeship. Their job is to guide you and attend regular workplace meetings. Working directly with your line manager, your career coach will also ensure you can integrate teachings into your day-to-day duties.

Download our factsheet