Kentbusinesscollege

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

Aligned with the PMBOK® Guide and PMI Talent Triangle® domains, your employees will develop skills across the full project lifecycle:

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.

[quarter-animation]

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.

3 Hours - Self-Paced Learning

Dedicated time to review materials and complete weekly assessments at your own pace.

3 Hours Reflective Practice

Brief reflective essays applying classroom insights to your professional role—purely developmental, no pressure or grading.

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​

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

Improvement in Project Rsults
6 %
Increase in the number of standardised PM Processes
6 %
Greater retention achieved by our apprenticeship learners than their non-apprentice peers.
% 0
Would recommend the program
0 %

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.

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

Covered by Kent Business College

Non-levy employer (< £3m payroll)

Apprenticeship Cost to You:

£350 total (£35/month over 10 months)

PMP® Exam & Membership

Covered by Kent Business College

Conditions:

Must be employed in England

✔ Payslip from a company in England required

✔ No hidden fees or student loans

Next Steps: How to Enroll

Ready to elevate your marketing team? Enrolling employees in the programme is simple. Just follow these steps:

Sign the Digital Contract

As an employer, please carefully review the entire contract and sign it using the following link


Sign the Agreement

Add Us to the Apprenticeship Digital Account Service (DAS)

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.


Watch here

Book an Enrolment Appointment (30 minutes)

During this meeting, please have the following ready: Passport, GCSE certificates (if available), Other qualifications, and National Insurance Number, Choose Enrolment Meeting


Book an Appointment

Activate your APTEM account using the invitation link

Please check your inbox for the activation link to get started on APTEM (LMS platform). 

Maths and English Assessment (20 minutes)

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.

Training Plan Review (45 minutes)

A meeting involving the line manager and employee to review and approve the training plan and finalise the remaining paperwork. Choose Compliance Meeting


Book an Appointment

What Our Graduates Say

Hear from professionals who have completed our Marketing Executive Level 4 Apprenticeship program.

 
"The Project Management program at Kent Business College equipped me with practical skills that I apply daily in my role. The instructors bring real-world experience that makes all the difference."
John Doe
student
"The Marketing College's digital marketing specialization was exactly what I needed to advance my career. The hands-on approach and industry connections helped me secure my dream job."
John Doe
Student
"The Leadership College transformed my approach to management. The curriculum strikes the perfect balance between theory and practical application, and the network I built has been invaluable."
John Doe
Student

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Associate Project Manager Level 4 Apprenticeship is designed for those starting or consolidating their career in project management. It focuses on business-oriented project management skills, governance, leadership, and delivery, with the option to sit the globally recognised PMP® certification. The Project Control Professional Level 6 Apprenticeship builds on this foundation, preparing learners for senior project leadership roles with a focus on strategy, governance, and advanced project controls. It is ideal for experienced project controllers, project engineers, and Heads of Projects who want to progress into strategic-level roles.

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.
Together, these pathways offer a clear progression route from practical project delivery at Level 4 to strategic project leadership at Level 6, creating a full professional development journey.

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.
This funding structure makes the apprenticeship highly cost-effective, ensuring employers of all sizes can develop project management capability within their teams.

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.
With these support services, you’ll never feel alone in your apprenticeship — we provide the tools, expertise, and community to help you succeed.
First and foremost, this apprenticeship is not a loan to be repaid. It is funded through the UK government’s apprenticeship scheme, so there is no financial liability for the employer or the employee if the programme is withdrawn before completion. If you change jobs, you can take your apprenticeship with you to your new employer, provided they are eligible to support apprenticeships. In cases of redundancy, Kent Business College will support you by helping you find a new role, ensuring you can continue your apprenticeship without interruption. This approach ensures apprentices can pursue their qualifications with confidence, knowing their progression will not be hindered by changes in employment circumstances.

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

Chat with KBC Support
KBC Support

Please verify this info

Quarter 1 (Month 1 to 3) Project Governance and Leadership

Module Area Key Learning Topics
Project Context Understanding the organisational environment, strategic objectives, and how projects align with wider business goals. Includes internal and external factors that influence project delivery.
Project Governance Introduction to project lifecycle models, governance structures, roles and responsibilities (including sponsor, PMO, and steering groups), and escalation protocols.
Project Leadership Developing leadership presence, decision-making under pressure, motivating others, ethical leadership, and fostering team collaboration.
Project Team Management Exploring team dynamics, forming and developing high-performing teams, conflict resolution, role clarity, and collaborative working.
Project Comms Planning, managing, and monitoring effective communication across stakeholders; use of communication plans, channels, and feedback mechanisms.
Stakeholder Engagement Identifying, analysing, and engaging stakeholders through proactive communication, influence, and relationship management strategies.

Quarter 2 (Agile Project Management)

Module AreaKey Learning Topics
Agile Foundations & FrameworksAgile values and principles; when to use iterative vs linear/hybrid approaches; Scrum, Kanban, and hybrid models; roles and responsibilities in agile governance.
Agile Planning & Backlog ManagementUser stories and acceptance criteria; prioritisation (MoSCoW, WSJF); backlog refinement; estimating with story points; managing scope and change in agile projects.
Iteration / Sprint Planning & SchedulingRelease and sprint goals; capacity and velocity; visual scheduling (Kanban boards, burn-down charts); aligning agile schedules to business objectives.
Agile Delivery & CeremoniesDaily stand-ups, sprint reviews, retrospectives; limiting work-in-progress (WIP); managing impediments; embedding continuous improvement and built-in quality.
Agile Metrics & ReportingBurn-down/burn-up charts, cumulative flow diagrams, cycle time and lead time; dashboards for decision making; tailoring reports for sponsors and teams.
Agile Risk & Dependency ManagementRisk-based thinking and RAIDs; dependency mapping across teams; escalation paths and negotiation; mitigating uncertainty in iterative delivery.
Agile Quality ManagementDefinition of Ready and Definition of Done; acceptance criteria; test-driven approaches; visual controls for quality and defect prevention.
Agile Governance & Change ControlLightweight governance (e.g. agile stage gates); configuration management in agile; managing change flexibly while retaining control and traceability.
Stakeholder Engagement in AgileCo-creation with product owners and users; show-and-tell sessions; tailoring communication styles; influencing and negotiating to achieve outcomes.
Digital Tools & CollaborationUsing Jira, Trello, Azure Boards and similar tools; integrating boards, backlogs, and reports; best practice for online and remote agile collaboration.

Quarter 3 - Project Control (Scope, Cost, Schedule and Resources)

Module AreaKey Learning Topics
Scope ManagementDefining project scope and deliverables; creating and managing a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS); scope baselines; controlling scope through change management; preventing scope creep while meeting business objectives.
Requirements GatheringEngaging stakeholders to capture needs; translating business requirements into project deliverables; applying tools such as interviews, workshops, and user stories; maintaining traceability of requirements throughout the project lifecycle.
Cost EstimationEstimating techniques (top-down, bottom-up, parametric, analogous); use of historical data; factoring in risk and contingency; building robust cost baselines linked to scope and schedule.
Budgeting and Cost ControlDeveloping and managing budgets; monitoring actual vs planned spend; forecasting final costs; applying Earned Value Management (EVM) for integrated cost and schedule control; reporting financial performance.
Schedule PlanningBuilding schedules using network diagrams and Gantt charts; identifying dependencies and milestones; resource levelling and allocation; using scheduling tools (e.g. MS Project, Primavera).
Schedule ControlTracking project progress against baseline; applying critical path and critical chain methods; variance analysis; forecasting schedule completion; managing delays and recovery planning.
Resource ManagementIdentifying and planning resources (human, financial, material, technical); creating a resource management plan; balancing workloads across the team; monitoring utilisation; addressing resourcing conflicts; linking resource plans to schedule and budget for full integration.
Integration of Scope, Cost, Schedule and ResourcesAligning all project baselines to ensure consistency; integrated reporting for stakeholders; balancing trade-offs between scope, time, cost, and resources to achieve successful project delivery.

Quarter 4 (Months 10–12): Risk, Quality, Procurement and Professionalism)

Module AreaKey Learning Topics
Risk MGMTIdentifying risks using qualitative and quantitative techniques; building and maintaining a risk register; planning and implementing risk responses; understanding opportunities as well as threats; integrating risk management with schedule and cost control; escalation and contingency planning.
Issue & Change MGMTDistinguishing risks from live issues; applying structured change control processes; managing configuration; ensuring lessons learned are captured and applied to future projects.
Quality MGMTPlanning quality into the project from the outset; developing Quality Management Plans; defining acceptance criteria; applying assurance and control methods; embedding continuous improvement and reflective practice.
Procur. & ContractsUnderstanding procurement lifecycles; developing procurement strategies; managing suppliers and third-party contracts; negotiation and evaluation; contract change control; ethical and sustainable procurement practices.
PM EthicsActing with integrity and accountability; applying professional codes of conduct; respecting confidentiality, diversity and inclusion; sustainability and responsible project management; building trust with stakeholders through ethical decision-making.
Final Integration & EPA PreparationBringing together all knowledge areas (scope, cost, schedule, risk, quality, resources, and stakeholder engagement); preparing portfolio evidence; practice for End-Point Assessment (EPA) including presentation and professional discussion; reflection on personal growth and behaviours across the programme.

PMP – Quarter 5 (Months 13–15): End-Point Assessment (EPA) Preparation

Module AreaKey Learning Topics
Understanding the EPA ProcessIntroduction to the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) as the End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO); structure of the assessment; timelines and requirements; grading criteria and expectations at Pass, Merit, and Distinction levels.
Portfolio of Evidence FinalisationReviewing and refining the learner’s portfolio; ensuring coverage of all Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs); aligning project examples with the apprenticeship standard; demonstrating breadth and depth of application across multiple projects.
Project PresentationStructuring and delivering the EPA presentation; using professional presentation tools; tailoring for clarity and impact; storytelling with evidence; practising presentation delivery under timed conditions.
Professional DiscussionPreparing for the formal discussion with independent assessors; reflecting on projects and workplace application of KSBs; answering competency-based questions; demonstrating critical thinking, decision-making, and ethical behaviours.
Mock AssessmentsParticipating in mock presentations and professional discussions; receiving structured feedback from tutors and peers; identifying strengths and areas for improvement before the final EPA.
Professional Behaviours & Continuous DevelopmentDemonstrating behaviours such as accountability, resilience, collaboration, and ethical practice; reflecting on personal growth throughout the apprenticeship; creating a professional development plan for post-apprenticeship progression.

Grow Professionally