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Continuous Improvement Apprenticeships

Our Apprenticeships empower both learners and businesses to meet the demands of today's ever-evolving landscape. Our courses support growth and success for aspiring learners and upskilling workforces.

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Unlock potential with a Continuous Improvement Apprenticeship

Increase productivity and streamline efficiency in your business with our Continuous Improvement (CI) Apprenticeships. CI Apprenticeships teach the methodology of Lean Six Sigma that will implement change across the whole organisation. Lean and Six Sigma tools and techniques are taught identify and eliminate non-value added wastes to effectively optimise business productivity and increase profits.

This apprenticeship can help you develop the skills, knowledge, and behaviour necessary for today’s rapidly changing business environment. Apprenticeships in CI can help you build the project and change management skills you need to make an organisation as efficient as possible. Once you’ve completed your Level 3, you can move on to more advanced apprenticeships in levels 4-5 or a new full-time position in your chosen study area.

We work with both learners and employers to develop CI projects with a clear Return on Investment. Our collaborative approach means that young people and current employees can gain the most up-to-date knowledge needed to level up.

By following the Apprenticeship pathway, Apprentices can earn a wage whilst gaining valuable experience and nationally recognised qualifications through practical on-the-job training and structured learning.

Our Continuous Improvement Apprenticeships are a great option for employers seeking to create a Lean team and working environment. Contact us to esquire about our Lean Six Sigma Belt certifications.

What apprenticeships can you get in business?

Continuous Improvement (CI) Apprenticeships are becoming increasingly popular with organisations from all sectors. Smart Training and Recruitment offers various types of Apprenticeships, all designed to suit different areas of the sector and individual skill sets. For those hoping to pursue a new career in CI, the Improvement Technician/Practitioner Level 3/4 Apprenticeships can be a great place to start.

 

Types of Continuous Improvement (CI) Apprenticeships

Lean Manufacturing Operative

Lay the foundation for efficient manufacturing processes with our Lean Manufacturing Operative Apprenticeship (Level 2). This program equips apprentices with the basic Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques to identify and eliminate waste, streamline operations, and contribute to overall process improvement.

Improvement Apprentices

Both Improvement Practitioners and Technicians work in identifying and leading the delivery of change across their organisation’s functions and processes, using a blend of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. They can be found in a variety of industries, such as Banking, Engineering, NHS, Pharmaceuticals, Insurance and more. They possess valuable skills in Compliance, Team Leadership, Project Management, and Data Stratification.

CI Apprentices will be taught the Lean Six Sigma methodology. Apprentices are able to apply for the yellow or green belt after completing this Apprenticeship.

 

Process Leader

This Apprenticeship is for those working within manufacturing processes that undertake and direct production activities and operations and deliver against Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Apprentices will learn how to effectively lead and manage teams as well as how to provide technical/specialist input and direction to their team and stakeholders. They will develop the skills to determine and manage budgets and resources, using KPIs as the basis of the continuous improvement cycle and undertake and manage quality resolutions using Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques.

Our Partners

Apprenticeships are a proven and cost-effective way to attract, retain and develop your team.
86% of employers say that apprenticeships have benefited their business.

How do Continuous Improvement Apprentices get paid?

Apprenticeships are a great way to earn money whilst you learn. The rate that you get paid is set by The Government, which provides guidelines based on the age of the apprentice. If an apprentice is aged 16-18 or over 19 in 2023, they can expect to earn £5.28 per hour during their first year. After completing the first year, or if they are over 19, they are entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage rate for their age.

As an apprentice, you’ll get:

  • Paid and be entitled to the National Minimum Wage.
  • Time for training or study as part of your apprenticeship.
  • Holiday pay and other employee rights.

For Employers, offering Apprenticeships to your Employees can be financially supported through government funding and incentives, reducing the overall training costs for your business. See our Funding section for more information.

What do you do during a Continuous Improvement Apprenticeship?

During your apprenticeship, your daily tasks will vary depending on the department you are working in, the location of your employer and the level of apprenticeship you have chosen. You will be responsible for performing continuous improvement tasks using the Lean Six Sigma methodology with all its tools and techniques. You will spend 80% of your time completing your daily work duties, while the remaining 20% will be dedicated to working towards your qualification. Our Learning and Development Tutors, along with a possible workplace mentor, such as your manager, a colleague, or someone who has already completed the course at your place of employment, will guide you through this process. Your apprenticeship will include a variety of engaging activities aimed at enhancing your learning experience:

  • Working alongside experienced staff.
  • Gaining practical, job-specific skills.
  • Gain important life skills.
  • Earn a wage and get holiday pay.
  • Be allocated time for study related to your role.

What support is available for employers who want to offer Continuous Improvement Apprenticeships?

If you want to explore hiring apprentices or training and developing your existing team – we’re here to help! We pride ourselves on working with employers to make a real difference in their business. This is done through ongoing engagement with managers in your organisation to plan meaningful learning for your staff that focuses on your key business objectives and priorities. We can help with:

  • Training existing employees
  • FREE personalised service to help you hire Apprentices
  • Creating new opportunities for your organisation
  • Staff can learn at your premises and online

We can also help you access funding advice, grants and additional resources.

Apprenticeship FAQs:

An Apprenticeship offers a way for learners to earn whilst learning, gaining valuable skills and knowledge in a specific job role. It includes workplace learning, formal training and the opportunity to practise new skills in a real work environment. Apprenticeships benefit employers and individuals, boost the workforce’s skills, and improve economic productivity.

Success Stories

Hear from learners and employers who have chosen Smart Training & Recruitment for their Apprenticeship needs.
" Whenever I feel I'm struggling, I always have my tutor to support me. She has made herself accessible through all available mediums and is always there to make suggestions about how I might complete a module. She never gives me too much to do and I have had plenty of time to complete the work. "

Jake B (learner)

" I have just competed my Level 5 coaching apprenticeship and had the pleasure of being support by Gill! Gill was so approachable, supportive, and kind throughout and was on the end of the phone or email whenever I needed her! She helped me stay focused and I was thrilled when I passed my end point assessment! "

Aimee Williams (Learner)

Get Started with Apprenticeships Today

Take the first step towards an Apprenticeship today. Fill out our form to get in touch with our expert team.
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