Build tomorrow’s leaders, starting today
Tailored to you
Course materials and mentor support tailored to your individual business needs.
Mode
Delivered online
Cost
Full government funding available through the Growth and Skills Levy
Did you know?
Administrative roles saw skill-shortage vacancies drop from 36% to 19% but 80% of UK employers struggle to find the required skills. The gap isn’t closing; it’s widening.
UK Department for Education Employer Skills Survey 2024
Our solution: Future-focused training in AI, digital skills, critical thinking and process mapping prepares administrative staff for tomorrow’s workplace demand.
Testimonails
From feeling stagnant to securing a promotion, hear Jenny's story
From eureka moments to real change, hear Murray's story
Jenny Deardon, St Anne's College, University of Oxford
Murray Palmer, University College, Oxford
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The Level 3 Business Administration Programme is designed for those already working in a relevant role. The programme runs for 13 months, delivered remotely via Teams. Entry requires Level 2 (GCSE 4–9) in English, Maths, and ICT or equivalent.
Start date of 21 April 2027; Register by 10 April 2027
Cost is £5,000, with government funding available.
Built for businesses that can’t afford to stand still
Three out of four British firms that try to hire still cannot find the workers they need (British Chambers of Commerce, 2025). The organisations that win aren’t always the ones hiring the best, they’re the ones developing from within.
How our Professional Coaching takes you beyond the standard
Data, AI & Digital Skills focus
Specialist sessions with practical activities and live demonstrations focusing on them as they will be at the forefront of business leadership up to 2035.
Level 3 Apprenticeship
The Emerging Leader programme is a Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship designed for those already working in a relevant role.
Thought Labs
Group sessions to trailblazer and problem solve issues in the workplace, using peer-to-peer learning and networking.
Future Business Leader sessions
One-day sessions with a specialist trainer covering future skill requirements up to 2035.
Gamification
Will feature within group sessions and on our online learning portal to drive interaction and engagement with the programme.
Overview
Build the confidence and practical skills to thrive in today’s workplace.
This programme delivers a fully funded Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship, helping learners develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to succeed in a wide range of business environments.
Learners strengthen their communication, organisation, problem-solving and time-management skills while gaining hands-on workplace experience. They’ll build the confidence to take initiative, support colleagues and contribute to business success, creating a strong foundation for a rewarding career and future progression.
What makes our Business Admin programme different?
Taking you beyond the standard
Most Level 3 Business Admin programmes stop at the standard. We go further. With Future Business Leader Sessions, Thought Labs, AI and Digital Skills focus and gamification built in, we’re preparing your people for the world of work in 2035, not just today.
Learning that builds real leaders, not just administrators
We believe in applied learning, absorbed through doing, reflecting and practising in real work. Every module builds towards stronger leadership conversations, greater self-awareness and the confidence to step up when it matters.
What You’ll Master
A fully funded Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship
Critical thinking, systems thinking and AI governance skills for the future of work
The self-awareness and emotional intelligence to bring out the best in others
Who is this programme for?
Driven Team Member: Ambitious team members showing leadership potential
Resourceful Admin: Business administrators ready to take on more responsibility
New Manager: New or aspiring managers stepping into a people leadership role for the first time
Flexible Funding
Growth & Skills Levy (Previously Apprenticeship Levy)
Eligible programmes can be fully funded through the government’s Levy. We help larger employers maximise their Levy investments. Smaller businesses can access up to 95% government funding.
Commercial Investment
Bespoke delivery is available to use your training funds. We can tailor content, timing and format to your needs with flexible payment options.
We’ll help you find the right funding route for your situation.
"The course has definitely been very valuable to me..."
Lila, Determined to Lead participant
"We have noted genuine improvements in the creativity, flexibility and adaptability in the leadership approaches."
John Banbrook, St Anne's College
"Such a worthwhile and rewarding experience."
Craig, Determined to Lead participant
Industry areas we work in
If you think an apprenticeship is right for you, you can train with Activate Apprenticeships for a career in the following industries:
Our apprentices
BUBBLE: Did you know that more than 1/3 of our apprentices are aged 19+?
So, what can I expect from my apprenticeship?
You must be at least 16 when you start an apprenticeship and there are three types depending on your requirements and previous qualifications. These include day release, work-based and block-release.
No matter the type of apprenticeship, your performance coach will visit your workplace every eight weeks to support you and check on your progress. You will also have an inhouse mentor at your workplace throughout your apprenticeship.
An apprenticeship typically lasts 24 months. However, they can be anything from 12 months to five years depending on your chosen role and level.
How much will I earn?
The amount you’ll earn will vary depending on the nature of the role, sector and business you are working with. We will be able to talk through earning potential when you meet with us.
The minimum hourly wage for an apprentice is £3.90, although we find that most apprentices are paid more than this. If you are over 19 and have completed the first year of your apprenticeship, you will be paid the national minimum wage.
Once you complete your apprenticeship, you will see an increase in salary and let’s be honest, you will boost your career and reap financial benefits of not having paid our tuition fees and other costs that university brings.
The apprenticeship programme
By becoming an apprentice with Activate Apprenticeships, you will have access to the full breadth of student advice and support we have to offer. This includes support from Advice and Admissions, Learning Support and Student Support teams. We also have dedicated, impartial careers advisors, 1:1 support, a college nurse and free counselling services onsite.
You can access all facilities at Activate Learning colleges, including libraries and digital resources and programmes. You will have a student card and are able to borrow books and laptops to support your apprenticeship programme, as well as being able to take advantage of student discounts and apply for an Apprentice extra Totum card.
Unfortunately, as apprenticeships are paid positions, you may not be entitled to certain funding and travel bursaries.
The qualification
When you study an apprenticeship, you will be trained to an industry-standard and will leave with a recognised qualification or industry-recognised accreditation, and ready to enter your chosen profession once you have completed your apprenticeship.
Progression routes
What happens when I complete my apprenticeship?
Most people stay on with the employer they train with, but there’s plenty of options and no requirement for you to do so if you want to move onto something else.
There are clear and supported routes no matter what you choose to do. You may decide to study a higher-level apprenticeship, return to academic studies or continue working full-time. It’s totally up to you and we are here to support you all the way!
Employability is part of our ethos and we will ensure you are supported in your progression.
How to apply
Ready to start an apprenticeship?
Your heart needs to be in it when it comes to starting an apprenticeship.
We advise that you have an idea of what industry you want to work in and do lots of research on sectors and roles before enrolling on to an apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships are demanding but very rewarding. If you’re unsure of what you want to do, we suggest gaining some work experience prior to your application to give you a taste of working life.
You will require a grade 4 in GCSE English and maths or an equivalent functional skills qualification. However, if you do not have these grades, don’t worry, as you can study for this qualification alongside your programme.
Register your interest in an apprenticeship
Search Our Apprenticeships Vacancies
Learn more about our management programmes
Download our guide to the management and leadership programme
Industry areas we work in
If you think an apprenticeship is right for you, you can train with Activate Apprenticeships for a career in the following industries:
Our apprentices
BUBBLE: Did you know that more than 1/3 of our apprentices are aged 19+?
So, what can I expect from my apprenticeship?
You must be at least 16 when you start an apprenticeship and there are three types depending on your requirements and previous qualifications. These include day release, work-based and block-release.
No matter the type of apprenticeship, your performance coach will visit your workplace every eight weeks to support you and check on your progress. You will also have an inhouse mentor at your workplace throughout your apprenticeship.
An apprenticeship typically lasts 24 months. However, they can be anything from 12 months to five years depending on your chosen role and level.
How much will I earn?
The amount you’ll earn will vary depending on the nature of the role, sector and business you are working with. We will be able to talk through earning potential when you meet with us.
The minimum hourly wage for an apprentice is £3.90, although we find that most apprentices are paid more than this. If you are over 19 and have completed the first year of your apprenticeship, you will be paid the national minimum wage.
Once you complete your apprenticeship, you will see an increase in salary and let’s be honest, you will boost your career and reap financial benefits of not having paid our tuition fees and other costs that university brings.
The apprenticeship programme
By becoming an apprentice with Activate Apprenticeships, you will have access to the full breadth of student advice and support we have to offer. This includes support from Advice and Admissions, Learning Support and Student Support teams. We also have dedicated, impartial careers advisors, 1:1 support, a college nurse and free counselling services onsite.
You can access all facilities at Activate Learning colleges, including libraries and digital resources and programmes. You will have a student card and are able to borrow books and laptops to support your apprenticeship programme, as well as being able to take advantage of student discounts and apply for an Apprentice extra Totum card.
Unfortunately, as apprenticeships are paid positions, you may not be entitled to certain funding and travel bursaries.
The qualification
When you study an apprenticeship, you will be trained to an industry-standard and will leave with a recognised qualification or industry-recognised accreditation, and ready to enter your chosen profession once you have completed your apprenticeship.
Progression routes
What happens when I complete my apprenticeship?
Most people stay on with the employer they train with, but there’s plenty of options and no requirement for you to do so if you want to move onto something else.
There are clear and supported routes no matter what you choose to do. You may decide to study a higher-level apprenticeship, return to academic studies or continue working full-time. It’s totally up to you and we are here to support you all the way!
Employability is part of our ethos and we will ensure you are supported in your progression.
How to apply
Ready to start an apprenticeship?
Your heart needs to be in it when it comes to starting an apprenticeship.
We advise that you have an idea of what industry you want to work in and do lots of research on sectors and roles before enrolling on to an apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships are demanding but very rewarding. If you’re unsure of what you want to do, we suggest gaining some work experience prior to your application to give you a taste of working life.
You will require a grade 4 in GCSE English and maths or an equivalent functional skills qualification. However, if you do not have these grades, don’t worry, as you can study for this qualification alongside your programme.
Register your interest in an apprenticeship
Search Our Apprenticeships Vacancies
Is Determined to Lead the right programme for me?
Determined to Lead is designed for people who want to grow as leaders and managers. It’s suitable for:
– Aspiring leaders who want to build confidence and practical leadership skills.
– New or mid-level managers looking to strengthen how they lead teams and make decisions.
– Professionals interested in personal and professional growth and becoming more effective in leadership roles.
The interactive workshops, mentoring and practical activities help improve your leadership style, motivate others and apply what you learn in the workplace.
Why learn with Activate Business School?
Activate Business school delivers courses and apprenticeships in the UK, combining expert-led training and hands-on workplace projects with personalised support and mentorship.
Our learners gain practical digital marketing, campaign strategy and brand management skills while earning a recognised qualification and contributing to business success.
Find out how our programmes can support your marketing career or team.
Am I eligible for Determined to Lead?
Eligibility is based on your experience and leadership aspirations, rather than specific academic entry requirements. It can be adapted for different organisations and contexts – our team here at Activate Business School are happy to discuss suitability or eligibility with you directly.
How is Determined to Lead different to other leadership training?
Our Determined to Lead approach stands out in several ways:
Determined to Lead is not off-the-shelf training. It combines CMI accreditation, Insights Discovery profiling and dedicated 1-1 mentoring in one joined-up programme. Guest speakers bring real-world insight tailored to your sector. Learning is embedded in your everyday role from day one.
Get in touch today
Fill out the form below and our friendly team will contact you to discuss your business training options