It is FTL’s Level 4 management development pathway for aspiring, new and existing public sector managers.

The programme helps learners organise work, support people, communicate clearly, influence stakeholders and improve public services.

The programme is delivered through the Level 4 Junior Management Consultant Apprenticeship.

The standard develops practical capability in communication, relationship-building, research, business analysis, project support, reporting and recommendations for change. Skills England

No. The standard uses management-consulting skills, but FTL’s programme is designed for people working within public sector organisations.

Learners use a practical consulting mindset to investigate service issues, gather evidence, involve stakeholders and recommend better ways of working.

It is suitable for aspiring, new and existing managers, coordinators, project and service roles, and specialists who influence others.

Learners may work in councils, central government, NHS bodies, housing organisations or wider public services.

No. This is one of the main advantages of the Level 4 route.

Learners do not need formal line-management responsibility. Their role must give them opportunities to organise work, engage stakeholders, gather evidence or contribute to service improvement.

The Level 4 programme provides a broader and more flexible management pathway for public sector employers.

It can support aspiring managers, first-line managers and existing managers through one programme, including people who influence or coordinate work without formally managing a team.

Learners will be better able to prioritise work, diagnose service problems, gather evidence, communicate recommendations, influence stakeholders and support change.

They will also build confidence, professional credibility and stronger judgement in everyday public-service situations.

Yes. Learners build practical AI confidence and complete Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals certification.

The focus is on using artificial intelligence responsibly to support productivity, communication, decision-making and better public services. This aligns with the sector’s emphasis on trustworthy, user-centred adoption and professional oversight.

FTL delivers the programme over 12 months, followed by end point assessment.

The delivery model requires approximately four hours of protected learning time per week.

The programme is fully fundable through the Apprenticeship Levy, with a maximum funding band of £9,000.

There is no personal cost to learners where their employer uses apprenticeship funding.

Learners can progress into more specialised programmes across change, improvement, AI, automation, data, coaching or leadership.

For employers, the programme creates a stronger pipeline of confident public sector managers and future leaders.