02 October 2024
The landscape of leadership and management is constantly evolving, and so too are the standards that shape the development of future leaders.
The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) has recently updated the Level 3 Team Leader apprenticeship standard, moving from version 1.2 to version 1.4. This revision reflects the changing demands of the modern workplace and ensures that apprentices are equipped with the most relevant skills and knowledge.
In this article we explore the key differences between these versions and what the changes mean for aspiring team leaders.
A shift in focus
One of the most significant changes in version 1.4 is the increased emphasis on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). This reflects a growing awareness of the importance of maintaining inclusive workplaces and the role that team leaders play in creating these environments. The new standard requires apprentices to demonstrate how they proactively support EDI in the workplace and to assess the impact of these efforts.
Another notable shift is the greater attention paid to both external factors and the use of technology. Version 1.4 recognises that team leaders must be aware of and adapt to changes in the broader social and economic environment. The new standard also acknowledges the growing importance of technology, including artificial intelligence, in the modern workplace.
More detailed assessment criteria
Version 1.4 provides more detailed criteria for passing and achieving distinction, particularly in areas such as managing relationships, communication techniques, and continuous improvement. This increased specificity allows for a more nuanced assessment of an apprentice's skills and knowledge.
For example, in the "People and Relationships" section, the new version requires apprentices to demonstrate effective management of diverse relationships, set objectives, monitor progress, and provide feedback to improve team and individual performance. To achieve distinction, they must also evaluate the effects of promoting an inclusive culture.
Streamlined structure
While some areas have become more detailed, others have been simplified. The new version has streamlined the content into broader categories, making the standard more cohesive and easier to navigate. For instance, the "Future Plans and Opportunities" and "Using Technology" sections in version 1.4 do not have distinction criteria, simplifying these areas of assessment.
Changes in assessment methods
The assessment methods have also undergone significant changes. The "Presentation with Questions" method now includes new elements such as:
- Problem Analysis and Conclusions: Apprentices must explain how their role influences the organisation's strategy and objectives, and how cross-team collaboration contributes to achieving them.
- Data Collection and Benchmarking: This new section requires apprentices to outline processes, policies, regulations, and compliance, and to explain how they've considered and managed external factors impacting the organisation.
- Future Plans and Opportunities: Apprentices must describe how internal and external factors impact their role and identify ways to adapt to future changes in their sector.
The "Professional Discussion underpinned by a Portfolio of Evidence" method has also seen changes:
- Building a High-Performance Team: The new version focuses more on identifying and supporting continuous learning and development needs of the team and self, as well as applying EDI policies.
- Communication and Implementing Operational Plans: This replaces the previous "Organisational Governance" section, emphasising resource management, stakeholder collaboration, and communication of organisational strategy impact.
- Managing Change and Continuous Improvement: This new section addresses principles of change management, continuous improvement, and managing budgets during change processes.
- Using Technology: A new addition that requires apprentices to describe their use of technology and software in business activities, with an emphasis on energy efficiency.
Implications for apprentices and employers
These changes in the Team Leader apprenticeship standard have several implications:
- More holistic approach: The new standard takes a more integrated approach, linking on-programme projects more closely with end-point assessment (EPA). This allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of an apprentice's skills and knowledge.
- Future-proofing skills: With its focus on adaptability, technology use, and awareness of external factors, version 1.4 better prepares apprentices for the challenges of modern leadership roles.
- Emphasis on inclusivity: The increased focus on EDI will help create more inclusive workplaces and develop leaders who can effectively manage diverse teams.
- Technology integration: The explicit inclusion of technology use reflects the growing importance of digital skills for leadership roles.
- Continuous improvement: The new standard places greater emphasis on continuous improvement and change management, essential skills in today's fast-paced business environment.
A step forward in leadership development
The transition from version 1.2 to 1.4 of the Team Leader apprenticeship standard represents a significant step forward in leadership development. It reflects a more contemporary, inclusive, and technology-aware approach to team leadership. The new standard maintains a strong focus on core leadership skills like team development, problem solving and effective communication while also preparing apprentices for the challenges of leading in an increasingly diverse, technology-driven and rapidly changing business landscape.
For employers and training providers, these changes offer an opportunity to enhance their leadership development programmes and ensure they are producing team leaders who are truly prepared for the demands of modern business. For apprentices, the new standard provides a clear roadmap for developing the skills and knowledge needed to excel in today's dynamic work environment.
As we move forward, it's clear that the evolution of leadership standards will continue, always striving to reflect the most current trends and needs of the workplace. The Team Leader apprenticeship standard 1.4 is a significant step in this ongoing journey of leadership development.
For more information on the details of the changes you can access our Mapping documents for both Team Leader and Operations Manager below via our form;
Download the mapping documents
