Level 4 Improvement Practitioner Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship Overview

The Level 4 Improvement Practitioner Apprenticeship is designed for individuals who lead and support improvement initiatives within their organisation. This programme develops advanced knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to analyse performance, lead change, and deliver measurable improvements across processes and teams. Delivered through a blended learning approach of face-to-face tutorials, remote workshops, and workplace-based projects, the apprenticeship equips learners to drive sustainable improvement and influence others across the organisation.

Funding Options

  • Levy employers: £6,000
  • Non-levy employers: £300

Who Is This Apprenticeship For?

This Improvement Practitioner Apprenticeship is aimed at individuals responsible for enhancing processes, solving operational problems, and supporting change within their organisation. Practitioners usually lead smaller improvement projects or contribute to wider programmes, working across functions to deliver measurable benefits. They operate in a wide range of sectors, including automotive, banking, engineering, food production, IT, property, retail, and telecoms.

Learners Will

  • Be assigned a qualified tutor for one-to-one mentoring, with visits every 4–6 weeks
  • Engage in a blended learning approach combining face-to-face tutorials, remote workshops, online learning, and on-the-job improvement leadership
  • Complete a minimum of 6 hours of protected study time per week, including structured learning, workplace projects, and portfolio activities
  • Gain hands-on experience leading improvement initiatives, analysing data, coaching teams, and managing change across functions

What You Will Achieve

Received upon completion of the apprenticeship:

  1. Level 4 Improvement Practitioner Apprenticeship Standard Certificate
  2. Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English (if required)

 

Behaviours developed include:

  • Leadership and accountability for improvement outcomes
  • Coaching and motivating others to engage in change
  • Adaptability and effective change leadership
  • Clear communication, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based decision-making

Key Themes

Planning
Planning
  • The Principles of Continuous Improvement
  • Team Formation and Leadership
  • Change Management
  • Voice of the Customer
  • Identify the Problem and Validate
  • Project Management Methodology and Tools
  • Root Cause Analysis
  • Process Mapping
  • Compliance
  • Data Collection Planning
Implementation
Implementation
  • Data Analysis
  • Identification, Prioritisation and Action Planning
  • Trialling and Experimentation (PDSA Cycles)
  • Implementation and Confirmation
Reporting
Reporting
  • Sustaining Improvement and Control
  • Benchmarking, Scale-Up and Spread
  • Reviewing, and A3 Reporting Methodology

The Apprenticeship Journey

This apprenticeship follows a blended learning approach, combining face-to-face tutorials, online learning, and practical experience in the workplace. Learners will receive ongoing support from a qualified tutor who will guide them through various modules covering business administration, project management, and organisational skills. The apprenticeship includes at least 6 hours of protected study time per week, during which learners will complete formal assessments and portfolio tasks. This programme ensures that learners develop a well-rounded understanding of business operations and how to support effective management practices.

End Point Assessment (EPA)

The final assessment for this apprenticeship is carried out by an independent end point assessor and includes:

  1. Project Report, Presentation and Questioning
    Learners complete and present a substantial workplace improvement project, demonstrating leadership, data-driven decision-making, and the delivery of sustainable improvement outcomes.

  2. Multiple Choice Questionnaire (MCQ)
    A knowledge-based assessment covering continuous improvement principles, change management, leadership, and analytical tools.

  3. Professional Discussion underpinned by a CPD Log
    A structured discussion where learners reflect on their development, supported by a continuous professional development log and evidence gathered throughout the apprenticeship.

Interested in This Course?

Alternatively, you can send us an email at enquiries@hawktraining.com
or call us on +44 (0)20 8891 0992