OPERATIONAL, LEADERSHIP AND CUSTOMER SERVICE SKILLS FOR RETAIL TALENT
The Level 3 Team Leader for Retail apprenticeship gives your employees a grounding in retail best practice and develops sales, merchandising and leadership knowledge to take their careers to the next level. This apprenticeship explores legislation, finance, stock handling, marketing and current technology, and develops staff into confident, capable leaders.
On this programme, apprentices will develop skills in advanced sales strategies to both reach new customers and retain existing ones, and understand the importance of upholding brand standards. Learners will develop an understanding of project management, collating and interpreting data and leadership and management approaches. They will be able to drive sales while keeping brand values and customer experience at the core of day-to-day retail operations.
KEY INFORMATION
- Develop staff skills in leadership, communication and performance management
- Drive and maintain business standards through effective leadership
- Understand operational efficiency and store administration
APPRENTICESHIP DETAILS
The Level 3 Team Leader for Retail apprenticeship is designed to develop the knowledge and skills needed to begin a successful career in retail management.
- Open cohorts start in February/March, April/May and September/October
- Closed cohorts can start at any time
- Hybrid, online and in-person delivery
- Practical experience balanced with theoretical learning
The Level 3 Team Leader for Retail apprenticeship supports learners to take their first steps towards a career in retail management by building core skills in leadership, sales, communication and team management. Apprentices will develop skills in retail project management, budgeting and stakeholder collaboration, as well as understand how to work with internal departments such as finance, IT and sales.
On completion of this apprenticeship, learners will be able to confidently lead a team within a retail setting, and understand how to inspire their team to drive results and operational efficiency. Apprentices will also be equipped with fundamental skills in data gathering and analysis to help monitor the performance of their store and their team.
The Level 3 Retail Team Leader 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 FRA resources including WGSN, LinkedIn Learning, Global Data, Business of Fashion, Fashion/Beauty Monitor and Drapers
- Online e-Portfolio
- Monthly progress report
Duration: 12–15 months
The Level 3 Retail Team Leader apprenticeship typically takes 12 months to complete, followed by a period of end-point assessment of approximately 3 months.
Open Cohort Intakes
February/March
April/May
September/October
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 3 Retail Team Leader.
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.
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.
Operations & Project Delivery
- Apply performance management to track progress against goals.
- Use project management tools for planning, monitoring, and delivery.
- Manage resources including time, budgets, and staffing effectively.
- Follow organisational policies, processes, and compliance requirements.
Strategic & Business Awareness
- Align team and individual work with organisational strategy and objectives.
- Understand external factors like environmental and social impacts.
- Navigate organisational structures and foster cross-functional collaboration.
- Stay informed on retail trends, sustainability, and technology.
Problem Solving & Decision-Making
- Use structured thinking and data analysis to solve problems.
- Make evidence-based recommendations with awareness of risks.
- Adapt quickly and work flexibly to meet new challenges.
People Management & Development
- Set goals, monitor performance, and give constructive feedback.
- Apply leadership styles that motivate and support teams.
- Lead through change by resolving challenges and guiding teams.
Communication & Collaboration
- Present ideas and complex information clearly to varied audiences.
- Use diverse communication methods to influence and engage.
- Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships.
- Negotiate to manage conflict and achieve outcomes.
Inclusion, Culture & Ethics
- Promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.
- Demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and ethical behaviour.
- Foster a respectful and positive team environment.
Technology & Personal Effectiveness
- Use business software and digital tools for project management and communication.
- Produce professional documents to share insights and support decisions.
- Optimise digital tools to improve efficiency and sustainability.
- Take ownership of workload and demonstrate resilience and initiative.
End-point assessment
For the Level 3 Team Leader For Retail apprenticeship, end-point assessment is provided by EFI Awards. EPA typically takes 3 months to complete.
EPA includes Written Exam, Retail Business Project and Professional Discussion.
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