Level 5 Operational Leadership and Management Course in Wakefield. Classes run at Solace Pontefract, combining face-to-face workshops with online study over 25 months. This blended approach lets you apply your learning directly to your role while studying around your work. The course is aimed at middle managers and those working toward middle management roles in local councils across England. You'll develop the skills to lead teams, manage change, and improve services. Funded through the Apprenticeship Levy, so eligible employers access it at no direct cost.
Who this course is for
Emerging Leaders is aimed at eligible individuals across Councils
who are, or aspire to be, middle managers and who have a long-term
career aspiration within local community leadership.
What you will learn
You'll develop strategies for leading and motivating teams effectively.
You'll learn how to manage organisational change and support colleagues through it.
You'll build skills in planning, prioritising, and delivering operational goals.
You'll reflect on your own leadership style and how to develop it further.
You'll practise communicating with stakeholders at different levels of an organisation.
You'll learn how to use data and evidence to improve services and make decisions.
You'll develop your understanding of governance and accountability in public sector contexts.
How you will learn
Learning is blended. You'll attend face-to-face workshops at the centre on a day or block release basis, alongside virtual sessions you can join remotely. Workplace-based projects form a core part of the programme, so you apply what you learn directly in your role. A virtual learning environment supports your study between sessions. Assessment is through work-based evidence, projects, and professional discussions with tutors and assessors.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Solace Pontefract will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Service Manager, leading a team delivering local authority services
Operations Manager, overseeing day-to-day delivery across a department
Team Leader, managing staff and performance in a public sector setting
Project Manager, planning and delivering change programmes in local government
Head of Service, taking strategic responsibility for a council function
Policy and Performance Manager, using evidence to shape service improvement
What you could study next
CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership. A natural next step if you want to move into senior or executive leadership roles.
Level 6 or Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship in Leadership or Public Administration. Combines academic study with continued workplace development for those aiming at director-level positions.
Chartered Manager status (CMgr) through the Chartered Management Institute. Recognised professional standing for experienced managers.
