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Improve organisation performance through learning and development

Our L&D Consultant/Business Partner apprenticeship is a fantastic opportunity if you want to take your understanding of the Learning & Development function to the next level. For those who wish to take accountability for ensuring that learning and development contributes to improved business performance, at an individual, team and organisation level.

You might be in a generalist learning and development role, or you can choose a specialist focus such as digital and blended learning.

All apprentices who complete the Level 5 programme can gain a CIPD Intermediate Certificate or Diploma in Learning and Development along with Associate Membership of CIPD as a dual award with their Level 5 apprenticeship.

  • Typical responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring learning needs are aligned with strategic objectives

  • Leading on learning and development elements of business projects

  • Influencing key stakeholders

  • Making recommendations and decisions on what the business can or should do in an L&D context

Entry requirements

Entry requirements are set by the employer and may include three A-Levels, including Maths and English. Some employers will accept other relevant experience or a relevant Level 3 qualification.

Apprentices without English or Maths at Level 2 must achieve this before taking the End Point Assessment.

What to expect during your apprenticeship

We address challenges associated with conventional L&D approaches through workshops and enhance the learning journey by providing you with coaches and mentors who will guide you throughout the programme.

You can access your course materials on any device and at any time, giving you a seamless and flexible learning experience.

Throughout the programme you will be supported by an industry adviser and have access to our substantive Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). You’ll follow an individual learning plan and complete tasks and activities to support each component of your apprenticeship. Progress will be tracked through our ePortfolio system, OneFile.

You’ll have the opportunity to complete the CIPD Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning and Development qualification, although this is not mandatory.

Units you’ll study

  • Developing professional practice in L&D – 5LDP

  • Understanding the context of L&D – 5CLD

  • Using information, metrics and developing business cases for L&D – 5DBC

  • Managing the L&D business function – 5LBF

  • Designing and developing digital and blended learning solutions – 5DBS

  • Optional modules (for Diploma)[MB1]


Programme features

Your apprenticeship will involve a blend of learning, encompassing a combination of workshops and online meetings, along with supporting resources including webinars, engaging online videos, PDF resources and activities. Checklists and practice quizzes will allow you to integrate and retain what you have learned.

Your programme will include:

  • Live online workshops

  • 24/7 access to our VLE and your e-portfolio

  • Regular one-to-one meetings with an expert adviser

  • Unit study guides

  • Access to our learning bites webinar series

  • Online forums

  • Progress reviews

  • Pastoral support

  • End point assessment preparation


How long does the apprenticeship last?

The L&D Consultant/Business Partner apprenticeship is an advanced apprenticeship set at the level of a University Foundation degree. It lasts approximately 18 months, with an additional five months for the End Point Assessment. The programme is split into four main phases which include an induction, core modules, End Point Assessment preparation and the End Point Assessment.

How will I be assessed?

Your 20% off-the-job training will be assessed throughout the programme and will be based on the Skills, Knowledge and Behaviours (SKBs) you develop. You’ll also have quarterly progress reviews. An End Point Assessment takes place once you have completed all the on-programme requirements of the apprenticeship and is an assessment of the Skills, Knowledge and Behaviours.

Looking for an all-in-one learning & development solution?


Reed Learning makes employee learning simple and effective with curated learning packages, a breadth of digital and in-person learning products, and tailored advice to help you find the right solution for your business.

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lorraine b


23 Oct 2024

CIPD qualifications

The trainer was good at providing opportunity to answer questions, they managed interruptions well, and were good at engaging people. The introductions felt a bit lengthy, but we had more than enough time. And worked well at getting people involved. I won't know how good the content is about addressing objectives until I start the assignment. Breaks were plenty and well-timed.

Molly S


23 Oct 2024

CIPD qualifications

Great start to the course, Fiona was very engaging and looking forward to part 2 of this course.

Gemma S


23 Oct 2024

CIPD qualifications

Really informative first session, feel quite confident in making a start on my assignment

Evie J


23 Oct 2024

CIPD qualifications

For my first webinar I really enjoyed it. Fiona made it so much less scary! I’m begining to understand what is expected of me in the course

Gary F


22 Oct 2024

CIPD qualifications

Great workshop