Developing the next generation of public sector procurement professionals

NEPO’s Regional Procurement Apprenticeship Programme is designed to attract, develop and support talented individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, helping them build successful careers in public sector procurement.

Created in partnership with NEPO’s Member Authorities, the programme reflects a shared commitment to investing in future talent at a time when demand for public services is growing and procurement is undergoing rapid digital transformation.

Launched in September 2024, the programme directly addresses skills shortages across the region by providing apprentices with high-quality training, real-world experience and access to a strong professional network.

Now delivered collaboratively across North East local authorities, the programme offers a truly region-wide approach, bringing organisations together to share best practice and build long-term capability.

Delivered annually, the apprenticeship programme:

  • Creates a sustainable talent pipeline for the public sector
  • Embeds consistent, high-quality procurement practice
  • Supports apprentices to thrive as part of a connected regional community

Watch A day in the life of a NEPO Procurement Apprentice

Our apprenticeships

Have you considered a career in procurement? It’s a fantastic choice, with continuous professional development, varied and rewarding work, as well as great career prospects! With our procurement apprenticeship, you will benefit from a structured learning programme, get hands-on experience and earn a salary.

As a procurement apprentice, you’ll be a valued member of our professional team, helping to shape and deliver procurement solutions that support the North East public sector and beyond. You’ll gain practical, real‑world experience while developing key skills through dedicated training and support.

The role is varied and dynamic, with opportunities to take on greater responsibility as your confidence and expertise grow.

Learning, training and qualifications

You’ll follow a structured learning and development pathway designed to build your skills and professional qualifications over approximately 42 months. Qualifications you’ll achieve:

  • CIPS Level 4 Diploma and the Level 4 Commercial Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioner apprenticeship
  • CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply
  • CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma and the Senior Procurement and Supply Chain Professional apprenticeship 

After completing these, you will qualify for MCIPS status.

Training is delivered by SR Supply Chain Consultants and is a blend of online learning and face‑to‑face training.

Support and mentoring

From day one, you’ll be supported throughout your apprenticeship journey. You’ll have access to all the training you need to succeed, plus the guidance of a dedicated mentor and line manager. You’ll work with a supportive team of colleagues and join a connected, region wide community of apprentices.

You'll also benefit from:

  • Protected time to attend training, exams and assessments
  • Support with exams, assignments and portfolios
  • Access to additional development opportunities, including events, site visits and soft‑skills training



Career progression

On completion, you’ll be well placed to progress into a range of procurement roles across the public sector, including Procurement Officer, Senior Procurement Officer or Category Specialist positions.

With Level 6 MCIPS status, you’ll have the skills, knowledge and professional recognition to continue developing your career within local authorities or wider public sector organisations.

The programme also provides a strong foundation for future leadership roles and continued professional development.



Salary, benefits and working hours

Our apprentices enjoy a wide range of benefits, such as:

  • A competitive apprenticeship salary
  • Paid time to attend training
  • Generous annual leave (28 days per year)
  • Local government pension.
  • Hybrid working with the opportunity to work from home following an induction period.

Begin your apprenticeship journey

Thinking about applying? Here’s what you’ll need.

Entry Requirements

You’ll be a great fit for this apprenticeship if you have:

  • Minimum of 5 GCSEs which must include English Language & Maths at Grade C / 4 or above.
  • 3 A-levels (or equivalent qualification) with UCAS points of 120
  • Communication skills - listening, spoken and written.
  • ICT Skills - Microsoft Office (Word & Excel).
  • Team player who is not afraid to try something new.
  • Commitment to own personal and professional development.

The programme is open to anyone aged 18 or over who is not in full-time education including school leavers, career changers and those looking to upskill.

How to apply

Apprenticeship recruitment is reviewed annually, and opportunities will normally be advertised around May each year.

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