The Senior Leader Higher Apprenticeship provides a distinctive
work-based learning experience, based on application of knowledge within the
workplace context, and assessed not by conventional essays or exams, but
through a portfolio of learning; a log of continuing professional
development; and a strategic work-based project.
This supports learning whilst
recognising the demands of being in full-time employment. Apprentices will
study four modules, each focusing progressively on gathering evidence of
developing practice as related to the standard laid down in the Senior Leader
Higher Apprenticeship. Each unit will be offered on a block-release basis with
additional independent off the job learning. These will encompass a range of
approaches to learning and teaching including knowledge masterclasses, research
symposia and professorial lecture, practice focus sessions, practice focus
guest speakers, executive coaching groups and asynchronous curated learning,
all of which is further enhanced by workplace learning.
The programme is designed to enable apprentices to develop the ability
to: critically reflect on own work and that of others; present and justify work
in the context of wider theories and practice to both specialist and
non-specialist audiences: and display and critically apply expert
knowledge within areas of specific discipline and / or practice. Learning is
structured around twelve key themes which relate directly to the standard, and
each of these themes is supported by a Teaching and Learning Plan which
outlines the structure, activities, and independent learning recommended to
support achievement of the apprenticeship standard. Additionally, each unit has
a dedicated site on our eLearning Portal with online resources in the form of
webcasts, videos, and guidance notes provided to support and enhance learning. Northumbria’s Senior Leader
Higher Apprenticeship programme has been designed by academics who are
internationally renowned in their areas of expertise. This enables the latest
thinking and practice to be embedded into our programme design. Modules within
the programme are grounded on building knowledge from research and critical
analysis of practice.
End Point Assessment
The
Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (2020) state that -
Rigorous, robust and independent End Point Assessment (EPA) gives employers
confidence that apprentices can actually perform in the occupation they have
been trained in and can demonstrate the duties, and knowledge, skills and
behaviours set out in the occupational standard. For details of the current EPA
for your standard please consult the IFATE Apprenticeship standards / Institute
for Apprenticeships and Technical Education webpage here. This Higher Apprenticeship normally takes 18 months part-time,
followed by the endpoint assessment which will typically be completed within
3-12 months. Full details are available on the IFATE website.