Build retail teams that deliver on sales targets and represent your brand with pride
In a world where consumers demand exceptional experiences, retail teams are more important than ever in delivering experiences that inspire loyalty and get consumers talking – in a good way!
This Level 2 Retail Assistant apprenticeship teaches employees to help customers in discovering and purchasing products in a way which inspires loyalty and repeat visits. They will learn the importance of having a good understanding of stock levels, pricing and product features and the USPs of their brand to deliver a high standard of service, store admin and VM standards.
KEY INFORMATION
- Learn to use a variety of sales techniques to influence customers’ purchases
- Develop effective communication skills, knowledge of legislative factors and attention to detail
APPRENTICESHIP DETAILS
The Retail Assistant apprenticeship supports shop-floor sales teams to improve product knowledge, selling skills, and understanding of retail operations. Drive sales with staff confident in upselling and cross-selling, customer engagement, and maintaining safety and presentation standards for exceptional experiences.
- Open cohorts start in September 2025 and March 2026
- Closed cohorts can start at any time
- Hybrid, online and in-person delivery
- Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning
Level 2 Retail Assistant apprentices will gain a broad understanding of how to give advice that helps to sell products and services in a retail environment. They will look at how to create an accessible and well-presented environment, increase their awareness of products and services in order to provide information and advice, and have knowledge of the different ways customers can shop and pay.
On successful completion of this course, apprentices will be equipped to make a positive contribution to the commercial goals of the business. By understanding the products and services they are selling, they will be able to build customer confidence and achieve targets in areas including sales and customer service. They will also gain the ability to follow stock control measures in line with business objectives.
The Level 2 Retailer apprenticeship costs £5,000 per learner which includes End-Point Assessment.
Funding
Apprenticeships can be funded from your Apprenticeship Levy or by Government Co-Invest. If you do not pay the Levy, the Government will fund 95% of the programme, meaning you pay as little as £250 per person you enrol. We are also able to offer privately funded places for any employees not eligible for apprenticeship funding. For further information about funding options, eligibility and costs, please contact us.
Cost Includes:
- Bespoke off-the-job learning plan
- Programme Manager overseeing the learner journey and apprentice experience
- Delivery of the programme by retail experts
- Blend of sessions including online learning, webinars, in-person workshops, and individual coaching and support
- Preparation and support for End-Point Assessment
- Dedicated Client Manager
- Access to resources including WGSN, LinkedIn Learning, Global Data, Business of Fashion, Fashion/Beauty Monitor and Drapers
- Online e-Portfolio
- Monthly progress report
Duration: 12 months
The Level 2 Retail Assistant apprenticeship typically takes 12 months to complete, followed by a period of end-point assessment of approximately 3 months.
Open Cohort Intakes
September/October
March/April
Enquire now to secure places for your team
Closed Cohorts
We can begin a closed intake apprenticeship at any time that suits your brand. We require a minimum of 10 learners to offer a closed cohort for Level 2 Retail Assistant.
For our closed-access programmes, we can devise a flexible programme and delivery model to support the needs of your business – please get in touch to find out more about the options available.
STRUCTURE
Off-the-job learning is delivered through a combination of full day and half day group workshops approximately every 2-3 weeks, which may take place online or in person.
Learning modules
Module 1: Business & Brand
- Legal & governance
- Brand reputation
- Brand development
- Market positioning
- Business markets
- Environmental factors
Module 2: Commercial Finance
- Profitable retail performance
- Effective stock control
- Loss prevention
- Resource planning and monitoring
Module 3: Sales, Stock & Service
- Merchandising throughout retail operations
- Sales and promotions
- Supporting performance monitoring
- Effective selling techniques
- Understanding product features & benefits
- Stock management
Module 4: Marketing & Communications
- Brand positioning
- Marketing activities & plans
- Communicating and cascading information
- Information gathering & reporting
- Communicating to a diverse audience
Module 5: Technology for Retail
- Tech requirements for business
- Understanding efficient operations & service
- Used & emerging technology
Module 6: Personal & Team Performance
- Personal & professional development requirements
- Team performance
- Diversity
- Developing self and others
Module 7: EPA Prep
- To ensure apprentices are ready for Gateway and EPA
- Assessments aligned with EPA requirements
- Project with presentation and questioning
- Professional discussion with portfolio
End-point assessment
For the Level 2 Retail Assistant apprenticeship, end-point assessment is provided by EFI Awards. EPA typically takes 2-3 months to complete.
EFI Training have provided an incredible development opportunity for a number of our 'top talent' employees.
Katie Battersby, Head of Learning, Development & Culture, Space NK