From the Association of Professional Sales website:
In a major boost to the sales profession, the government has approved a new sales apprenticeship programme which promises to make the UK world-leaders in producing professional, qualified salespeople.
Government backing for the new, level-4 sales apprenticeship for frontline sales executives, follows the committed work of the Association of Professional Sales, industry, training providers and the government.
“Together, we have agreed the shape, skills and funding for the new qualification which has just received final, government sign-off.
Ben Turner, Association of Professional Sales
Each up to 18-month sales apprenticeship programme will cost £6,000, but employers will be able to pay that from the apprenticeship levy which was set up by the government in April 2017.
Now the APS is encouraging companies to make the most of this pot of money by employing their own apprentices who will be working towards a new industry standard, set up by the APS, employers and the government and recognised across the profession as an independently, verified qualification.
Apprentices will be trained in the fundamental skills of selling to make sure they are business ready, and to ensure they receive a rounded, commercial education they will also focus on key topics like business acumen and digital selling strategies.
Level-4 apprentices who do their courses through training centres recognised by the APS will be admitted as members of the APS, and will receive qualifications awarded by the APS.
