Nottingham Business School (NBS) has announced that the November 2025 intake will be the final opportunity for senior professionals to access government-funded places on its acclaimed Senior Leader Apprenticeship (SLA) programme, which is rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted
This follows a recent UK government policy change that will restrict funding for Level 7 apprenticeships in England to individuals aged 16–21, effective from January 2026. As a result, the upcoming November cohort will be the last to benefit from the current funding model.
Over the years, the SLA has empowered hundreds of professionals to develop the strategic leadership skills needed to thrive in today’s complex and fast-changing business environment. The programme has made a significant impact across industries and sectors, helping organisations build resilient, forward-thinking leadership.
At NBS, part of Nottingham Trent University, results of the 2023 and 2024 Post Graduate Taught Survey show 100% student satisfaction among SLA apprenticeships students, with 98% gaining Distinction at End Point Assessment.
NBS is in the top 1% of business schools in the world to hold triple crown accreditation by EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA – globally recognised hallmarks of excellence and quality for business education. Its commitment to supporting businesses, fostering entrepreneurship, and driving economic growth has recently been recognised with reaccreditation from the Small Business Charter for the maximum five-year period.
The Senior Leader Apprenticeship is ideal for professionals who have moved into or aspire to senior management roles. It focuses on two core themes: Leading with Purpose and Leading Agile Transformation, and covers essential topics such as data-driven decision-making, change management, and cross-functional leadership.
Learners benefit from a highly personalised experience, with the opportunity to apply their learning directly to their organisation. Upon completion, participants can choose to receive a Postgraduate Diploma or progress to the Top-Up Executive MBA, which includes a live global consultancy project and executive coaching.
Whichever path they choose, graduates will be equipped to lead at a strategic level and drive meaningful impact within their organisations.
Organisations and individuals are strongly encouraged to apply now for the November 2025 intake, as demand is expected to be high.
Chris Jackowski, NBS Executive MBA and SLA graduate and Head of Change at NHS Supply Chain, said: “The senior leadership apprenticeship has strengthened my ability to lead with impact, combining strategic tools with a strong focus on reflection and a growth mindset—enabling me to continuously adapt, learn, and deliver meaningful transformation. The apprenticeship route allowed me to implement my learning straight into my day job.”
Dr Julie Rosborough, Deputy Director of Postgraduate Education and MBA Director at NBS, said: “While this announcement marks the end of NBS’s funded apprenticeship offer, we will continue to support senior professionals through a diverse portfolio of executive education programmes, designed to meet the evolving demands of modern leadership.”
Nottingham Business School’s Executive MBA and Global Executive MBA will continue to provide excellence in senior leadership qualifications, with scholarships available.
For more information on the SLA or to apply, visit: https://www.ntu.ac.uk/course/nottingham-business-school/app/senior-leader-apprenticeship