Business and administration - level 2 apprenticeship framework

About the framework

This framework specifies the standards and the criteria for the delivery of level 2 apprenticeship training to achieve qualified status within the business and administration sector.

Successful completion of the apprenticeship will lead to the award of a level 2 qualification and recognition as a qualified person within the industry sector.

Mandatory outcomes

Achievement of a level 2 apprenticeship in business and administration will be assessed by verification through the appropriate awarding body.

You must complete a combined competence and knowledge-based qualification from the list below, along with the mandatory essential skills qualifications.

Mandatory essential skills

To successfully complete the apprenticeship, you must achieve the following essential skills qualifications or already hold a recognised equivalent:

• application of number – level 1
• communication – level 1
• information and communication technology – level 1

The essential skills are mandatory and are to be completed as part of the apprenticeship. 

However, any qualifications you already have are assessed against the framework requirements and may result in an exemption from the above.

Competency and knowledge qualifications

Apprentices need to complete a combined competency and knowledge-based qualification, chosen from the list below.

Pathway one– business administration

Combined competence and knowledge based qualification:

• Active IQ Level 2 Diploma In Business Administration 601/3546/3        
• BIIAB Level 2 Diploma In Business Administration 601/3741/1           
• City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Business Administration 601/3607/8
• Highfield Level 2 Diploma In Business Administration 601/4107/4 (RQF)
• iCQ Level 2 Diploma In Business Administration 601/3704/6              
• Pearson BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Business Administration 601/3405/7
• ProQual Level 2 Diploma in Business Administration 601/3579/7
• OCN NI Level 2 Diploma in Business Administration Skills 603/7909/1

Eligibility and entry to the programme

You must be a new employee, or an existing employee taking on a new role to take part in the programme.

There are no formal entry requirements to take part in this apprenticeship. However, employers may apply their own criteria at the recruitment stage. Employers and contractors must ensure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain the apprenticeship successfully.

See also the DfE operational requirements. 

Duration

Apprenticeship duration can vary and will be agreed between the apprentice, training contractor and employer.

Related knowledge

For this framework, you must complete a suitable employee rights and responsibilities (ERR) workbook. Framework certification is issued on confirmation from training suppliers that the ERR has been completed.

Responsibilities

It's the responsibility of the training contractor/ college to make sure that all components of this framework are delivered in accordance with apprenticeshipsni operational requirements.

The apprentice must be employed from day one.

Further information

The content of this framework (Framework No 02 Issue 13: 04/23) has been agreed by the Department for the Economy.  For further information, contact:

• Department for the Economy - Apprenticeships Delivery and Performance Branch