Apprenticeships are not just for school leavers. Across the UK, more employees at every stage of their career are enrolling in apprenticeships to develop their skills, gain industry-recognised qualifications, and progress into new roles.
For employers, apprenticeships offer a cost-effective way to strengthen capability and performance, while staff gain the confidence and knowledge to make a real impact.
The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) is the world’s leading professional body for procurement and supply chain management. Achieving a CIPS qualification is widely recognised as a career milestone, demonstrating expertise, commitment and credibility.
At Aspire, we’re proud to deliver a full suite of apprenticeships which include CIPS qualifications at Levels 3, 4, 5 and 6. Whether you’re just starting out or moving into senior management, our programmes build the skills, knowledge and recognition you need to succeed.
Procurement and Supply Assistant (Level 3) Apprenticeship
The Level 3 Apprenticeship is the ideal starting point for those taking their first step into procurement. It introduces the fundamentals of procurement and supply, including core processes, principles and terminology. Apprentices also work towards the CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate, building a strong foundation for progression into more responsible roles. This programme is best suited to those in junior roles or new entrants looking to establish themselves in the profession. Find out more about the Level 3 Procurement and Supply Assistant here.
Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner (Level 4) Apprenticeship
Highly regarded across the industry, the Level 4 Apprenticeship equips learners for middle-management roles such as Buyer, Procurement Officer or Supplier Relationship Manager. The programme covers essential skills including contract management, supplier relationships and sourcing, alongside workplace application and support. Completion of this programme leads to the CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply. Discover more about the Level 4 Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship here.
Operations Manager (Level 5) Apprenticeship
While professional qualifications are not mandatory for this apprenticeship, Aspire offers learners the opportunity to achieve the CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply alongside the Operations Manager apprenticeship. This powerful combination develops both leadership and advanced procurement expertise, preparing learners for roles requiring strong individual and team performance such as Category Manager or Supply Chain Manager.
Please note: learners must hold a CIPS Level 4 Diploma before progressing to the Level 5 Advanced Diploma. To read more about the Operations Manager (Level 5) apprenticeship, please click here.
Senior Procurement & Supply Chain Professional (Level 6) Apprenticeship
Level 6 represents the pinnacle of the CIPS apprenticeship pathway. Designed for senior professionals leading procurement at an organisational or global level, it covers advanced topics such as risk management, global sourcing and leadership. Completion provides a route to Chartered status (MCIPS), the highest professional recognition in procurement. Find out more about our Level 6 apprenticeship here.
Additional Apprenticeships at Aspire
Building on our strong reputation in procurement and supply training, Aspire now delivers a wider portfolio of apprenticeships, including leadership and project management, to give learners and employers a complete development pathway.
Project Management Apprenticeship – For those looking to plan, manage and deliver successful projects. Find out more here.
Level 3 Team Leader Apprenticeship – A programme for first-line managers, supervisors and shift leaders who want to develop leadership, communication and coordination skills. Find out more here.
These options enable learners to complement their procurement expertise with leadership and project management skills, creating a broader professional toolkit.
How Employers Can Fund Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are funded through the apprenticeship levy. Large employers use their levy contributions to pay for training, while smaller businesses can still access support, with government funding covering at least 95% of costs. Aspire manages the administration and delivery, leaving employers free to focus on operational success.
Why Choose Aspire?
Since 2012, Aspire has specialised in delivering professional training across procurement and supply chain. In 2022, we became a main provider of apprenticeships and today we train over 450 learners annually, including more than 130 apprentices. We are proud to be a CIPS Centre of Excellence and an APM-approved training provider. Over 100 employers trust us to deliver their apprenticeship programmes, knowing that our tutors are not just teachers but accredited practitioners with at least 10 years of industry experience.
Take the Next Step
If you’re considering a CIPS apprenticeship or exploring our project management and leadership programmes, the first step is a conversation. Our team can guide you through entry requirements, funding options and the right programme level for your career goals.
Contact Aspire today to begin your journey towards professional recognition in procurement, project management or leadership.