Skills and knowledge are essential for career advancement. At Aspire, we offer a range of apprenticeships designed to equip you with the expertise needed to excel in procurement and supply chain management. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your existing skills, understanding the different apprenticeship levels can help you choose the right path for your career goals.
Which Apprenticeship Level is Right for You?
Procurement and supply is a complex industry but the right apprenticeship can set you on a clear path toward career success. Aspire offers apprenticeships tailored to different experience levels and career aspirations, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for your current role and future ambitions.
Understanding the Levels
CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate in Procurement and Supply
A great entry point for those new to the field, providing essential knowledge in demand management, supply logistics, and contract implementation. Ideal for individuals in administrative or junior roles aiming to formalise their understanding and advance their careers.
CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply
The highest entry point within the CIPS framework, perfect for those with at least two years of experience in operational or managerial procurement roles. It’s also suitable for graduates looking to build a solid foundation in procurement. This diploma prepares you for more complex responsibilities and is a stepping stone toward higher qualifications.
CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma in Procurement and Supply
The gateway to achieving the prestigious MCIPS qualification, this level focuses on strategic areas such as change management, stakeholder management, and leadership. It’s designed for professionals aiming for senior roles and those who want to make a significant impact in their organisations.
Choosing the Right Apprenticeship
Selecting the right apprenticeship is crucial and requires a careful assessment of your current experience, career aspirations, and long-term goals:
The Procurement and supply assistant (Level 3) Apprenticeship is ideal for those starting their journey in procurement or working in support roles. It builds a solid foundation by covering core topics like demand management, supply logistics, and contract implementation. This level equips you with the fundamental skills and knowledge necessary to progress in your career. Typical job roles include Administrative Assistants, Procurement Assistants and Junior Buyers, providing a stepping stone toward more advanced positions.
The Level 4 Commercial Procurement & Supply (Level 4) Apprenticeship is best suited for professionals who have some experience in procurement and are ready to take on more complex and responsible roles. This level offers deeper insights into procurement principles, preparing you for operational or managerial responsibilities. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals in roles like Procurement Managers, Buyers, Supply Chain Executives, and even recent graduates entering the industry. The Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply lays the groundwork for more specialised and strategic tasks, serving as a gateway to higher-level qualifications.
The Senior Procurement & Supply Chain Professional (Level 6) Apprenticeship is designed for those aiming for senior leadership or strategic roles within their organisations. At this level, the focus shifts to high-impact areas such as change management, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. To enrol in Level 6, students must have achieved both the CIPS Level 4 and CIPS Level 5 accreditations. This qualification is ideal for senior professionals, department heads and those tasked with driving organisational strategy and delivering long-term value. Earning the CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma in Procurement and Supply positions you for achieving the prestigious MCIPS status and advancing your career to the highest levels in procurement. In our apprenticeship programme, students are supported by a robust mentorship structure that enriches their learning experience and equips them for success in their roles. Each student is matched with an experienced industry expert— a professional who has not only gained deep expertise in procurement but has also excelled in senior positions within the field.
Looking for Something Different?
Aspire also offers the Associate Project Management Apprenticeship, ideal for professionals enhancing their project management skills or new to the field. This programme covers key topics like project cycles, scoping, communication strategies and the project management environment.
Apprenticeship Requirements
To be eligible for an apprenticeship, candidates must:
- Be aged 16 or over.
- Living in England.
- Be employed, with the right to work in the UK.
Click here to find out more.
Funding an Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships are supported by government funding, making them an affordable option for both employers and apprentices. Training is typically free for participants with the government and employers covering the costs. Large employers pay into the Apprenticeship Levy, while smaller employers only contribute 5% of the training costs, with the government covering the remaining 95%.
Employers and training providers may also receive a £1,000 incentive for apprentices aged 16-18 or those aged 19-25 with an education, health, and care (EHC) plan or those who have been in local authority care.
Why Choose Aspire?
At Aspire, we are committed to offering high-quality apprenticeship programmes that cater to different experience levels in procurement and supply chain management. Our apprenticeships are designed to enhance your skills and significantly boost your career prospects.
Ready to advance your career with an apprenticeship? For more details and to check your eligibility, contact us here or call 0808 231 2477. We’re here to guide you through our available programmes and answer any questions you may have. Take the first step towards a brighter future today!