Associate Project Manager
Level 4 with PMP
The Associate Project Manager Level 4 Apprenticeship is a fully funded, nationally recognised qualification that builds practical, strategic project management skills across all sectors. Delivered by Kent Business College, this programme equips your staff to lead, manage, and deliver successful projects in line with best practice and organisational goals.
To further enhance their development, learners also have the optional opportunity to prepare for the globally recognised PMP® (Project Management Professional) exam—one of the most respected project management certifications worldwide.
This is more than a course—it’s an investment in your workforce, with immediate and long-term impact.
Associate Project Manager
Level 4 with PMP
The Associate Project Manager Level 4 Apprenticeship is a fully funded, nationally recognised qualification that builds practical, strategic project management skills across all sectors. Delivered by Kent Business College, this programme equips your staff to lead, manage, and deliver successful projects in line with best practice and organisational goals.
To further enhance their development, learners also have the optional opportunity to prepare for the globally recognised PMP® (Project Management Professional) exam—one of the most respected project management certifications worldwide.
This is more than a course—it’s an investment in your workforce, with immediate and long-term impact.
Why Employers Choose This Programme
Immediate workplace impact
learners apply tools and techniques directly to real projects
Mapped to real-world roles
ideal for project coordinators, team leaders, and junior PMs
Professional credibility
optional PMP® exam prep funded by Kent Business College
Designed for all sectors
public, private, or not-for-profit
Flexible delivery
weekly online classes, workplace-based projects, and personalised coaching
Key Topics Covered
| Topic Area | What Your Employees Will Learn |
|---|---|
| Agile Project Management | Lead adaptive, iterative projects and apply Agile principles |
| Project Governance | Structures for decision-making, accountability, and reporting |
| Project Leadership | Team motivation, stakeholder engagement, and influence |
| Scope Management | Define and control deliverables to meet project objectives |
| Cost Management | Budgeting, tracking spend, and financial controls |
| Risk Management | Identify, analyse, and mitigate project risks |
| Quality Management | Ensure project outcomes meet agreed standards |
| Schedule Management | Plan timelines, manage milestones, and report progress |
| Procurement & Contracts | Manage supplier engagement and commercial contracts |
| Stakeholder & Communication | Engage stakeholders, manage meetings, and report effectively |
Optional Professional Certification
Apprentices may opt to prepare for the PMP® (Project Management Professional) exam—globally recognised and respected. For eligible learners, Kent Business College covers the full cost of the exam and professional membership, adding further value at no cost to the employer.
2025 Edition
Program Structure
A comprehensive curriculum designed to develop advanced project control capabilities with specialized routes for career customization.
Quarter 1 (Month 1 to 3) Project Governance and Leadership
Understanding the organisational environment, strategic objectives, and how projects align with wider business goals. Includes internal and external factors that influence project delivery.
Quarter 2 (Agile Project Management)
Note: This quarter directly supports the Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours (KSBs) of the Associate Project Manager Level 4 standard, with emphasis on governance, communication, leadership, stakeholder engagement, and the use of agile tools and methods.
Quarter 3 - Project Control (Scope, Cost, Schedule and Resources)
Note: This quarter develops the practical competencies required for effective planning and control of scope, cost, schedule, and resources. These directly map to the Associate Project Manager Level 4 Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours (KSBs) relating to defining and managing scope (K12), estimating and controlling costs (K18–K20), planning and monitoring schedules (K21), and managing resources (K22), supported by skills in baseline management, resource allocation, and stakeholder communication.
Quarter 4 (Months 10–12): Risk, Quality, Procurement and Professionalism)
Note: This quarter completes the learner’s journey by strengthening the Associate Project Manager Level 4 KSBs in risk management (K23, S14), quality management (K25, S15), procurement and contracts (K26, S21), and professional behaviours (B1–B6). By the end of Quarter 4, learners are fully prepared to demonstrate competence across all areas at End-Point Assessment.
PMP – Quarter 5 (Months 13–15): End-Point Assessment (EPA) Preparation
Note: This final quarter ensures learners are fully prepared for their End-Point Assessment with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). By completing portfolio refinement, presentation practice, and professional discussion preparation, apprentices are supported to achieve distinction-level performance, evidencing all Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours of the Associate Project Manager Level 4 standard.
About
Weekly Learning Breakdown
The programme is designed to fit smoothly alongside full-time work, with a total of 348 hours spread across 50 weeks (around 12 months). Learners commit just 7 hours per week on average (self-reported), including one 2-hour online class each week. This steady, manageable pace ensures employees can build expertise without disruption to their day-to-day role
2 Hours- Live Online Sessions
Interactive 2-hour weekly sessions with industry experts, covering key concepts and practical applications.
- All sessions recorded for later review
- Interactive Q&A opportunities
- Flexible scheduling options
3 Hours - Self-Paced Learning
Dedicated time to review materials and complete weekly assessments at your own pace.
- Comprehensive study materials
- Weekly multiple-choice questions
- Interactive learning activities
3 Hours Reflective Practice
Brief reflective essays applying classroom insights to your professional role—purely developmental, no pressure or grading.
- 200-400 word reflections
- Real-world application focus
- Constructive feedback provided
Benefits to Employers
Investing in the Associate Project Manager Level 4 Apprenticeship is more than just staff training — it is a direct investment in your organisation’s performance, capability, and future growth. Employers across all sectors are already seeing the measurable benefits of enrolling their teams on this fully funded programme.
Strategic Benefits
- Future-proof your workforce – Develop staff who can deliver projects aligned with organisational goals and adapt to evolving business challenges.
- Stronger project governance – Ensure projects are delivered with robust controls, reducing risk and increasing stakeholder confidence.
- Enhanced leadership pipeline – Build the next generation of project leaders with the skills to step into higher responsibility roles.
Operational Benefits
- Immediate impact in the workplace – Apprentices apply tools, techniques, and frameworks directly to live projects, improving efficiency and outcomes.
- Improved stakeholder engagement – Employees learn to communicate clearly, negotiate effectively, and build trusted relationships across your organisation.
- Cross-sector versatility – The programme equips learners with skills relevant to multiple industries, making them adaptable and resourceful.
- Integrated skills in cost, time, scope, and risk – Your teams will manage projects holistically, balancing competing priorities for success.
Financial Benifits
- Government funding – The apprenticeship is fully funded for levy-paying employers and only £300 in total for SMEs (95% government funded).
- Optional PMP® included – For eligible learners, Kent Business College covers the cost of the globally recognised PMP® exam and membership, adding substantial value.
- Reduced project failure costs – Better planning, leadership, and risk management lead to fewer overruns and stronger return on investment.
- Reduced project failure costs – Better planning, leadership, and risk management lead to fewer overruns and stronger return on investment.
Cultural & Professional Benefits
- Embed a project management culture – Create consistency in how projects are delivered across your organisation.
- Boost staff morale and retention – Employees feel valued with professional development opportunities, increasing loyalty and reducing turnover.
- Promote diversity and inclusion – The apprenticeship supports equal access to high-quality professional training, contributing to a fairer workplace.
By choosing to enrol your employees in this apprenticeship, you are ensuring they gain globally aligned project management skills while strengthening your organisation’s capacity to deliver results.
Proven Results & Case Studies
Bringham & Sons Construction
Increased on-time project completion rates from 70% to 95% within 12 months.
TechNet Innovations
Achieved a 20% reduction in delays and a 15% increase in customer satisfaction.
HealthSecure Clinics
Experienced a 30% decrease in budget overruns and a 10% improvement in quality compliance.
Enhanced Project Capabilities
Improve cost and schedule management, risk mitigation, and quality assurance across your organization.
Process Standardization
Reduce inefficiencies and establish consistent project processes throughout your business.
Improved Retention
Boost employee engagement and retention by investing in professional development.
Internal Talent Pipeline
Build a skilled workforce equipped to respond to evolving market demands.
statistics
Full Inclusive Package
Graduation Ceremony
Upon successful completion of the program, you’ll be invited to attend our prestigious graduation ceremony held at Rochester Cathedral, where you’ll receive your certification and celebrate with fellow graduates.
One-to-One Tutoring
Our dedicated tutors are available 7 days a week, until 9:00 PM, including weekends. Schedule sessions at your convenience for personalized guidance on any aspect of the program.
Optional Networking Workshops
We understand that attending in-person workshops may involve travel expenses. That’s why we cover travel costs for apprentices coming from afar, ensuring everyone has equal access to these valuable networking opportunities.
This commitment to accessibility reflects our dedication to providing a comprehensive learning experience that combines the flexibility of online learning with the benefits of face-to-face interaction.
- Workshop Locations
- Nottingham
- London
- Birmingham
- Maidstone
Engaging Resources
Access a wealth of learning resources designed to enhance your understanding and application of project control principles.
Digital Library
Access to industry journals, case studies, and reference materials.
Interactive Quizzes
Test your knowledge with regular assessments and feedback.
Templates for Makreting Plan and Reports
Professional templates for immediate workplace application.
Video Tutorials
Step-by-step guides for complex concepts and tools.
Employer Benefits
Enrolling your employees in the Marketing Executive Level 4 apprenticeship is a strategic investment in your organisation’s growth, competitiveness, and resilience.
Increased Productivity & Performance
Research consistently shows that training employees leads to higher productivity and improved job performance, enhancing service quality, customer relations, and efficiency.
Innovation & Competitive Edge
By developing up-to-date marketing skills (including the latest digital tools and AI applications), your team will be better equipped to innovate and respond to market changes.
Customer Satisfaction & Loyalty
Better-trained marketers can devise data-driven strategies and strengthen your brand positioning. This leads to improved customer satisfaction, which drives greater loyalty.
At a Glance: Funding Summary
Employer Type
Levy-paying employer
Apprenticeship Cost to You:
£0 (100% funded via levy)
PMP® Exam & Membership
Non-levy employer (< £3m payroll)
Apprenticeship Cost to You:
PMP® Exam & Membership
Conditions:
✔ Must be employed in England
✔ Payslip from a company in England required
✔ No hidden fees or student loans
Take the Next Step
Next Steps: How to Enroll
Ready to elevate your marketing team? Enrolling employees in the programme is simple. Just follow these steps:
As an employer, please carefully review the entire contract and sign it using the following link
Log in to your Government Apprenticeship DAS account Government Apprenticeship DAS - If your employer does not have an account, you only need the Government Gateway credentials (username and password) to create an account. Once created, add us as your provider using our UKPRN: 10093689.
During this meeting, please have the following ready: Passport, GCSE certificates (if available), Other qualifications, and National Insurance Number, Choose Enrolment Meeting
Please check your inbox for the activation link to get started on APTEM (LMS platform).
This step is a government requirement to ensure that learners have the necessary literacy skills to fully engage with the program and succeed in their learning journey — there’s no pass or fail.
A meeting involving the line manager and employee to review and approve the training plan and finalise the remaining paperwork. Choose Compliance Meeting
What Our Graduates Say
Hear from professionals who have completed our Marketing Executive Level 4 Apprenticeship program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our Marketing Executive Level 4 Apprenticeship program.
Who pays for the cost of exams and qualifications?
Associate Project Manager Level 4 with PMP®
Learners on this programme have the opportunity to prepare for and sit the globally recognised
PMP® (Project Management Professional) exam, delivered by the
Project Management Institute (PMI).
- Official Exam Website: PMI – PMP® Certification
- Cost of PMI Membership & Exam: £460 (Memberships: approx. £120, Certifications & Exam: £340)
- Total Estimated Cost: £460
While these professional membership and exam fees are normally the responsibility of the employer,
Kent Business College is currently offering to waive these costs on a discretionary basis.
This provides exceptional value and ensures both learners and employers can access globally benchmarked
professional recognition without additional financial burden.
How is the apprenticeship delivered?
The Associate Project Manager Level 4 Apprenticeship is designed to balance flexibility with meaningful interaction and personalised support:
- Online Learning: Learners attend a live, tutor-led 2-hour online session each week, supported by digital resources and workplace assignments, across the full year of study.
- Optional Face-to-Face Workshops: Every six months, we host in-person workshops to bring learners together. These sessions provide the chance to apply knowledge in group activities, experience live project simulations, and strengthen collaboration skills.
- Networking Opportunities: We cover the cost of transportation for these workshops to ensure every learner can take part. This investment allows apprentices to experience the value of face-to-face interaction while building their professional network.
- One-to-One Coaching & Mentorship: Every learner benefits from regular 1:1 coaching sessions for additional support and guidance, alongside access to free mentorship services to help them navigate challenges, build confidence, and accelerate professional growth.
This blended delivery model ensures apprentices gain the best of both worlds: the flexibility of online learning, the impact of live interactions, and the personalised support of expert mentors.
Who is funding the PMI memberships?
Professional Membership Costs
The Department for Education and the Apprenticeship Levy do not cover the cost of professional memberships, including PMI Membership. These fees are normally the responsibility of the employer. However, Kent Business College is currently waiving these costs on a discretionary basis, providing additional value and support for both employers and learners. This means your apprentices can access globally recognised professional status at no extra charge.
What are the entry requirements?
Entry Requirements
Applicants should currently be working — or planning to work — in a project management or project control role, as our apprenticeships are occupationally focused rather than purely academic programmes. We do not require specific academic qualifications, such as GCSEs or formal Maths and English tests, for entry into our programmes. Instead, our compliance team assesses each applicant’s eligibility on a case-by-case basis, ensuring suitability and alignment with the programme objectives. At Kent Business College, we believe education and professional development should be accessible to everyone. If you require additional support in English and Maths, we provide these services as optional, fully funded extras at no additional cost.
How is the apprenticeship structured around full-time work?
Study Commitment
The programme is designed specifically for working professionals, requiring only 7 hours per week of dedicated study time. This is structured as follows:
- 2 hours of live online sessions (recordings available if you cannot attend)
- 3 hours of self-paced learning
- 3 hours of reflective practice
All activities are flexible and can be rearranged around your workload. Importantly, your employer is required to provide this study time within your normal working week, ensuring the apprenticeship can be completed without additional personal burden.
What’s the Difference Between Level 4 and Level 6?
Key Differences
- Level 4 (Associate Project Manager): Focused on business-related project management, governance, and team delivery. Optional PMP® included.
- Progression to Level 6: Learners who move from Level 4 to Level 6 follow the strategy and governance pathway.
- No duplicate PMP®: If you have already taken PMP® at Level 4, you will not repeat it at Level 6.
- Reduced Duration: Progression to Level 6 shortens the programme by one year, recognising prior learning and experience gained at Level 4.
How are the apprenticeships funded?
Funding Information
Funding for this apprenticeship comes primarily through the UK government’s Apprenticeship Levy scheme. The level of employer contribution depends on whether your organisation pays the levy:- Levy-paying employers (annual pay bill over £3 million): The programme is 100% funded by the levy.
- Non-levy paying employers: The government funds 95% of the programme cost. The employer contributes just 5% (£350 in total, payable monthly at approx. £35 per month).
- Apprentices under 20 years old: The apprenticeship is fully funded (100%), regardless of employer levy status.
What support is available during the program?
Comprehensive Learner Support
You’ll receive full support throughout your learning journey, ensuring you are guided and supported every step of the way:- One-to-One Tutoring: Available 7 days a week until 9:00 PM (including weekends) to fit around your schedule.
- Dedicated Programme Advisor: Your personal point of contact for guidance, progress tracking, and support.
- Digital Library Access: A wide range of resources and reference materials available anytime.
- Interactive Learning Materials: Engaging content designed to help you apply theory to practice.
- Optional Face-to-Face Workshops: Opportunities for live interaction, practical application, and networking.
- Peer Learning: Become part of a cohort of fellow learners, creating opportunities for collaboration and shared learning.
What If I Leave the Job or Face Redundancy?
Download Resources
Access detailed information about our Marketing Executive Level 4 Apprenticeship program.
Program Brochure
Comprehensive overview of the apprenticeship, including curriculum details, delivery method, and career outcomes.
Funding Guide
Detailed explanation of government funding options, employer contributions, and the apprenticeship levy process.
Sample Schedule
Example timetable showing how the apprenticeship fits into a typical working week, including class times and study periods.
Associate Project Manager Level 4 with PMP
Contact our academic advisors to discuss which program is right for you. We’re here to help you navigate your marketing education journey.
Call us
+44 1622 37 0617
Email us
office@kentbusinesscollege.org
Visit us
37 Maidstone Innovation Centre, Gidds Pond Way, Weavering, Maidstone ME14 5FY
