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Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship

Launch a strategic career in supply chain management or upskill your operational team with the Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship from SRSCC. Designed to build practical competence in logistics, KPI management, supply chain compliance and continuous improvement, this 15–18 month supply chain apprenticeship equips learners to run efficient, compliant and customer-focused supply chain operations across warehousing, logistics, manufacturing, retail and production environments.

15-18

100%

Months

Apprenticeship Assessment
Pass Rate

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ISO 9001
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Cyber essentials plus
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CFA ISO 27001

About Level 3 Supply Chain Apprenticeship

The Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship is an immersive 15–18 month programme designed to equip learners with the foundational skills needed to handle day-to-day supply chain activity in operational environments. Whether you are an employer looking to upskill a member of your warehousing, logistics, manufacturing or production team, or an individual taking your first steps into the supply chain sector, this supply chain apprenticeship UK builds the competence and confidence required to drive measurable operational value.

Who is this Procurement Apprenticeship For?

Programme Highlights

New Entrants to Supply Chain

Individuals new to supply chain, logistics, warehousing or production who want a solid, accredited foundation in supply chain management.

Existing Operational Staff

Warehouse operatives, logistics coordinators or production staff handling routine activity who are ready to take on greater responsibility for supply chain processes, KPIs and continuous improvement.

Career Changers Transitioning into Supply Chain

Administrative, customer service or operational staff looking to transition smoothly into a structured supply chain role with a recognised qualification.

Organisations Developing Internal Supply Chain Talent

Organisations of all sizes — across warehousing, logistics, retail, manufacturing and production — seeking to elevate their supply chain function by developing internal talent through a levy-funded apprenticeship.

Speak to our Team

Why Choose The Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship?

Whether you’re an employer building a resilient supply chain function, or an ambitious individual entering the supply chain profession, this apprenticeship delivers measurable value from day one.

Benefits
For Employers

The Business Impact

Increase Savings and Reduce Supply Chain Costs

Apprentices apply learning directly to live processes, identifying waste, inefficiency and cost reduction opportunities while improving team productivity from day one.

Nurture and Retain Operational Talent

Demonstrate genuine investment in your people. A structured supply chain apprenticeship programme improves engagement and retention across operational teams, building a sustainable pipeline of capable supply chain talent.

Cost-Effective Upskilling via the Apprenticeship Levy

Maximise your training budget. This levy-funded apprenticeship can be fully or partially funded through your Apprenticeship Levy — up to £15,000 per apprentice — providing a highly cost-effective route to develop a robust supply chain function.

For Apprentices

The Career Impact

Earn While You Learn

Gain practical, in-demand workplace experience without the debt of traditional full-time study, while earning a competitive apprentice salary.

Develop High-Value Supply Chain Skills

On successful completion you will demonstrate key skills including stakeholder management, communication and influencing, project planning, change management, and data analysis for business improvement.

A Clear Supply Chain Career Pathway

This Level 3 apprenticeship opens doors to roles such as Logistics Coordinator, Inventory Controller, Materials Planner and Supply Chain Coordinator, with direct progression onto Level 4 apprenticeships and specialist supply chain qualifications.

Find Out More

Programme Overview: What You Will Learn

This degree-equivalent programme is engineered for senior professionals ready to take command of global commercial strategy. Delivered through an executive-level blended learning model, it builds the authoritative leadership required to drive board-level value.

Programme Roadmap
▶
Start
★
Qualified
📘
Phase 1
~13 Months

Knowledge

Apprentices build the core knowledge needed to work confidently in role, with theory applied directly to workplace responsibilities through workshops, online learning, mentor sessions and on-the-job activities.

Core Supply Chain Knowledge Areas

  • Supply chain processes and efficiency
  • Key performance indicators (KPIs) and data management
  • Supply chain legislation, policies and standards
  • Customer relations and communication
  • Logistics management and cost control
  • Problem solving and decision making
  • Quality and safety in supply chain operations
  • Supply chain technology and digital skills
  • Teamwork and organisational structure
✓
Phase 2
~2–4 Weeks

Gateway to Completion

Readiness for the Apprenticeship Assessment is confirmed through a tripartite review of all requirements.

Gateway Requirements

  • All knowledge components evidenced
  • Maths & English GCSE 4–9 or Functional Skills L2 (required for 16–18 year olds; full training provided by SRSCC if not already held)
  • Portfolio of Evidence prepared
  • Tripartite sign-off between employer, apprentice and SRSCC
🎓
Phase 3
~12–16 Weeks

Apprenticeship Assessment

Learners complete the End Point Assessment (EPA) and demonstrate full occupational competence. Each component is independently graded Distinction, Pass or Fail by an approved Assessment Organisation.

Assessment Methods

  • Multiple Choice Knowledge Test
  • Workplace Project Report and Presentation
  • Interview underpinned by Portfolio of Evidence
Total Duration
15–18 Months
Qualification
Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship
Grading
Distinction / Pass / Fail
Delivery
Live Virtual Classroom, Coaching Sessions
Start Today

Procurement Apprenticeship Pathway

The Level 6 Senior Procurement and Supply Chain Professional Apprenticeship represents the pinnacle of the commercial training pathway. Designed to master complex supply chain strategies and executive leadership, this degree-equivalent programme seamlessly integrates the prestigious CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma in Procurement and Supply.

Level 3

Procurement and Supply Assistant Apprenticeship

Builds foundational skills in supplier liaison, purchase order management, and quotation/tender evaluation. Includes the embedded CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate.
Level 4

Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship

Develops mid-level commercial capability across contracting, ethical sourcing, negotiation, and supplier relationships. Includes the embedded CIPS Level 4 Diploma.
Level 5

CIPS Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply

Self or employer-funded CIPS qualification. Moves into strategic territory including risk management, financial analysis, and supply chain planning.
You are here · Final Level
Level 6

Senior Procurement and Supply Chain Professional Apprenticeship

The ultimate destination. Strategic leadership focus covering corporate strategy, global supply chains, and future industry challenges. Includes the CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma.

Leads to MCIPS Chartership

Assessments Designed for Real-World Impact

Our assessment structure ensures learners don’t just memorise textbooks—they prove their competence. The Work-Based Project (3,000 words) is particularly valuable for employers, as the apprentice will tackle a genuine procurement challenge within your organisation, delivering actionable solutions and strategic insights as part of their final grade.

Assessment Structure
Part 1

CIPS Level 3 Advanced Certificate

Complete 5 multiple-choice assessments taken over 5 examination series, covering all core modules and your chosen elective.

5 separate module exams
Multiple choice format
Taken throughout the apprenticeship
Industry-recognised CIPS qualification
Part 2

Questioning Interview

60-minute questioning interview supported by your Portfolio of Evidence, demonstrating your practical application of skills.

60 minutes duration
Portfolio of evidence required
Demonstrates real-world application
Conducted at Gateway to Completion
Part 3

Work-Based Project

A 3,000-word project report followed by a 15-minute presentation and 30-minute Q&A session.

3,000-word project report
15-minute presentation
30 minutes of questions and answers
Apply knowledge, skills and behaviours
Find Out More

Building Your Future Procurement Function

This apprenticeship develops capable, confident professionals ready to take ownership of straightforward procurement processes, protecting bottom line and ensuring supply chain resilience.

Career Outcomes

Typical Job Roles Include:

Procurement and Supply Assistant
Junior / Assistant Buyer
Inventory Controller
Procurement Contracts Officer
Procurement Co-Ordinator
Purchasing Assistant

Salary Potential

During Apprenticeship
£19,500 – £22,000
After Qualification
£31,000 – £38,685
With Experience (3–5 years)
£38,000 – £48,000+
Salaries vary by sector, location and employer but procurement professionals are in high demand across the UK.

Immediate Opportunities

Step into entry-level procurement roles with confidence and industry-recognised credentials.

  • Assistant Buyer
  • Procurement Assistant
  • Purchasing Administrator

Career Progression

Advance to mid-level positions with further experience and continued professional development.

  • Procurement Officer
  • Category Analyst
  • Senior Buyer

Professional Development

Continue your journey with Level 4/5 qualifications and CIPS professional membership.

  • CIPS Membership
  • Level 4 Apprenticeship
  • Specialist Certifications
Begin Your Journey

Why Study with SRSCC?

As a leading provider of Skills, Training, and Apprenticeships, we’re committed to building skills and empowering futures across the UK.

Why Choose Us

Expert Practitioners

All our tutors are MCIPS or FCIPS-qualified professionals. We teach from real-world industry experience, not just textbooks.

MCIPS FCIPS Qualified

A Proven Track Record

SRSCC have been delivering successful procurement and supply chain training since 2007.

Since
2007
Procurement Training Delivered successfully for nearly two decades.

Flexible Learning

We adapt to your business needs. Choose from Classroom delivery (Preston), interactive Virtual Classrooms, or our tailored Independent Learning Zone (ILZ).

Classroom Preston
Virtual Classroom
Independent Learning (ILZ)

Ofsted & CIPS Recognised

We are immensely proud of our Ofsted "Good" rating and our status as a CIPS Centre of Excellence.

Download Level 3 Fact Sheet

100% Pass Rate

of Apprenticeship Assessments

500+ Apprentices

trained across the UK

OFSTED Good

rated training provider

CIPS Centre of Excellence

for over 19 years

20 Years

of training excellence

Elite Support

for our learners

What Our Learners & Partners Say

Hear from apprentices who have successfully completed the programme and employers who trust SRSCC to develop their teams.

“SR Supply Chain’s mentors and tutors have massively helped during my studies. They share their knowledge and experiences, which is invaluable because it really puts the context into what we learn.”

“SRSCC and the Apprenticeships they provide have, without a doubt, helped develop our Procurement Team.”

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Barry Leighton
Head of Commercial Services
Cumbria Constabulary

“Having a progress mentor has supported me because they believe in you more than you believe in yourself. There’s constant reassurance, they help you organize your time better, and offer regular check-ins. I love my progress mentor.”

“The apprenticeship through SRSCC has had a massive impact on my development, and I am convinced, that without the good habits, discipline and best practice that have learned so far, my promotion would not have come so soon!”

Chandco

James Haynes
CH&CO

“I would absolutely recommend the course with SR Supply Chain Consultants because it is very well structured and highly supportive. The team has really helped me to grow in my career. Their approach makes very complex topics accessible and relevant, and that support has been outstanding. I’m really, really happy.”

“Completing these apprenticeships has provided me with the knowledge and skills I need to perform effectively in my procurement role. The structured learning has supported my development, enhanced my confidence, and equipped me to contribute more effectively within my role.”

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Bailie Curtis
Senior Buyer
West Hertfordshire NHS Trust

More Testimonials

Ready to speak to our Team? Get in touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers. Find out everything you need to know about apprenticeships.

The Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship is a government-approved standard designed to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to support end-to-end supply chain operations — including procurement, forecasting, planning, manufacturing, customer service and logistics. Originally developed for the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, it equips apprentices to coordinate networks of interconnected businesses that move products from supplier to end customer.

The Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship typically takes 15–18 months to complete at SRSCC. This includes approximately 13 months of knowledge learning, 2–4 weeks for Gateway to Completion, and 12–16 weeks for the End Point Assessment. All apprentices must spend a minimum of 12 months on-programme before the Gateway, in line with national apprenticeship rules.

The Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship has a maximum funding band of £15,000 per apprentice. Levy-paying employers can fund the full cost through their Apprenticeship Levy. Non-levy employers pay just 5% (£750) with the government co-investing the remaining 95% (£14,250). There are no direct tuition costs for the apprentice — they earn while they learn.

To be eligible for the Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship you must be 16 or over, have the right to work in the UK, and be employed in a supply chain, logistics, warehousing or operational role. Most providers prefer GCSEs in English and Maths at grade 4/C, but Functional Skills Level 2 support is available during the apprenticeship for those who don’t yet hold these qualifications.

On successful completion of the Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner Apprenticeship, learners gain a nationally recognised Level 3 apprenticeship certificate from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, graded Pass or Distinction. Apprentices without prior GCSEs also gain Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths. The qualification is equivalent in level to two A-Levels.

Yes — Level 3 apprenticeships in the UK carry UCAS points, with the exact total varying by qualification specification and grading achieved. UCAS points support university applications if apprentices later choose to progress to higher education. For specific UCAS allocation, contact our team on 01772 282555 or speak to UCAS directly.

The Level 3 Supply Chain Practitioner End Point Assessment is delivered by an independent Assessment Organisation and consists of three components: a multiple-choice knowledge test (30 questions, 60 minutes), a workplace project and presentation (3,000-word report plus 45-minute presentation worth 50% of the final grade), and a 60-minute interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence. Each component is graded Distinction, Pass or Fail.

A Supply Chain Practitioner in the UK oversees and coordinates the end-to-end flow of products and services from supplier to customer. Daily responsibilities include forecasting demand, planning manufacture, processing customer orders, managing inventory, liaising with suppliers and hauliers, monitoring KPIs, and using data to drive continuous improvement. Practitioners work across procurement, planning, customer service and logistics functions.

Supply Chain Practitioner salaries in the UK vary by experience and sector. Apprentices typically earn from £19,000–£23,000 during the programme. On completion, supply chain coordinators earn around £25,000–£34,000, supply chain specialists average £33,475, and experienced supply chain managers earn £43,000–£52,000+. Sectors such as FMCG, pharmaceuticals and engineering typically pay above average.

Ready to Develop Your Supply Chain Workforce?

Whether you’re an employer looking to upskill operational teams, or an individual ready to launch a career in supply chain, our team can guide you through enrolment, levy use and learning options.

Bethanie Stimpson SRSCC

Bethanie Stimpson

Progress Mentor

Bethanie began her career in the fitness industry, working as a personal trainer and gym instructor before becoming involved in coaching children through a triathlon club. This experience sparked her passion for working with young people and ultimately led her into a career in education. She initially worked in a nursery and later as a one-to-one teaching assistant in a primary school, before completing her teaching qualification and postgraduate studies. Since then, Bethanie has taught in both the private and state education sectors.

Her academic background includes a qualification in Sports Development, Fitness and Coaching at college, alongside a Childhood & Youth undergraduate degree (2:1). These studies have enabled her to combine her interests in sport, education, and child development, shaping her holistic approach to teaching and mentoring.

Bethanie is passionate about supporting learners to achieve their goals — educationally, personally, and in terms of wellbeing. She places strong emphasis on communication and relationship building, and takes great pride in helping individuals build confidence and overcome challenges. One of her proudest achievements has been supporting learners who initially doubted themselves to grow in confidence and achieve success.

Outside of work, Bethanie has always maintained a strong interest in sport. She previously competed in triathlons and now focuses on running and swimming. In 2023, she completed the London Marathon — an achievement she is particularly proud of. She also enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and their two dogs, which is where she is happiest when not working.

Ola Kambul

Skills Coach

Ola began her career in supply chain within fast-paced warehouse and logistics environments, where she developed a strong understanding of operations and people management. Her journey into the Supply Chain sector wasn’t planned, but through hands-on experience she discovered a passion for improving processes and supporting others – which naturally led her into training and development.

She has progressed through a range of roles across operations, recruitment, and training, including Programme Coach and L&D Lead. She designed and delivered apprenticeship programmes, supporting over 40 learners to successful completion and contributing to strong quality outcomes and inspection success.  Her transition into mentoring was driven by a desire to make a direct impact on people’s confidence, growth, and career progression.

Ola’s mentoring style is supportive, structured, and empowering. She combines real operational experience with coaching expertise, helping learners apply knowledge in practical workplace settings. One of her proudest career achievements has been supporting learners who started with low confidence to achieve distinctions and progress into new roles within their organisations. She has also led a UK-wide Mental Health First Aider network, embedding wellbeing into workplace culture and supporting colleagues through challenging situations.

From day one, she shares a consistent message with every learner: “You’re more capable than you think – but you have to be willing to step outside your comfort zone to see it.”

Outside of work, Ola enjoys walking with her Border Collie, Luna, and cross stitching. She recommends Legacy by James Kerr to anyone in supply chain, for its powerful insights into leadership and culture. If she wasn’t working in mentoring and development, she would likely be pursuing a career as a Visual Merchandiser.

Jack Callaghan

Jack Moore

Operations Team Leader

In December 2023, Jack joined SRSCC as an Operations Coordinator and quickly established himself as a key member of the team.

Promoted to Team Leader in October 2024, Jack utilises his expertise in auditing processes and innovative problem-solving to identify and enhance growth opportunities.

Jack possesses a strong ability to analyse and refine systems and procedures, consistently uncovering chances for streamlining and automation that drive operational efficiency. He excels at communicating complex ideas with clarity and precision.

Detail-oriented yet big-picture focused, Jack applies his exceptional organisational skills to ensure the team adopts the most effective strategies for achieving both individual and collective goals.

His methodical approach and strategic mindset make Jack an invaluable asset to SRSCC, significantly contributing to the team’s success and the realisation of organisational objectives.