Level 3 business administrator apprenticeship
Develop the skills to support and improve business operations
The level 3 business administrator apprenticeship provides learners with the skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to play a key role in supporting and engaging with different parts of an organisation. Apprentices will learn to manage information, coordinate activities, and improve business processes — all while developing strong communication, problem-solving, and digital skills.
Delivered nationally by Skern Skills, this apprenticeship combines professional learning, workplace experience, and personal development to build confident, adaptable administrators who add real value to their organisations.
During this apprenticeship learners will:
- Managing office operations and supporting day-to-day activities.
- Handling information, producing records and documents accurately.
- Communicating effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
- Using IT systems and tools to analyse and present data.
- Managing priorities, resources, and deadlines effectively.
- Supporting projects, meetings, and organisational processes.
- Demonstrating professionalism, initiative, and responsibility in all tasks.
Core Knowledge Areas
- Understand organisational purpose, values, structure, and strategy
- Recognise how different functions contribute to business performance
- Understand key business principles including finance, change, and project delivery
- Understand how to manage information, data, and records accurately
- Recognise key business processes such as payments, procurement, and workflows
- Understand the importance of data protection, confidentiality, and information security
- Understand how to work with internal and external stakeholders
- Recognise the impact of external factors on business operations
- Understand different communication needs and expectations across stakeholders
- Understand organisational policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
- Recognise legal responsibilities including GDPR and data handling standards
- Understand governance frameworks and their role in business operations
- Understand how to deliver accurate, high-quality work
- Recognise methods for improving processes and increasing efficiency
- Understand the importance of continuous improvement and attention to detail
Key Skills
Digital and administrative delivery
- Use IT systems and software to manage data, documents, and communication
- Produce accurate reports, records, and business correspondence
- Maintain organised systems for information storage and retrieval
Planning, coordination and project support
- Plan and organise meetings, events, and business activities
- Support projects by coordinating tasks, timelines, and resources
- Manage priorities and workloads to meet deadlines
Communication and stakeholder engagement
- Communicate clearly and professionally across a range of platforms
- Build positive working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders
- Adapt communication style to suit audience and purpose
Problem solving and professional practice
- Use initiative and judgement to resolve issues and improve processes
- Maintain professionalism, accuracy, and attention to detail
- Adapt to change and take responsibility for own work and development
Programme Details
The apprenticeship will take a minimum of 18 months.
- GCSE Grade 2 or above in English and Maths (or equivalent).
- Applicants must have a suitable employer or be actively seeking one.
- Optionally complete a Level 3 Business Administration Diploma to support the apprenticeship.
- Perform confidently in a range of business administration roles.
- Demonstrate effective communication, organisation, and digital skills.
- Achieve the Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship Standard.
For Employers
Develop skilled, professional administrators who add value across departments.
Improve efficiency, communication, and organisation within your business.
Strengthen compliance and process management through trained staff.
Build a pipeline of capable employees ready for progression into leadership roles.
Why choose Skern?
At Skern Skills, we are passionate about helping individuals and organisations achieve their full potential through high-quality training and real-world learning. Our approach is built around understanding each employer’s goals and culture, ensuring every programme delivers meaningful impact. By combining expert delivery, flexible learning models, and a highly supportive partnership approach, we help apprentices grow in confidence, capability, and professionalism.
- National delivery – experienced trainers deliver programmes across the UK.
- Tailored learning – every programme reflects your organisation’s goals and values.
- Flexible delivery – combining one-to-one coaching, group sessions, and online learning.
- Experiential learning – apprentices have the opportunity to attend a residential programme at our North Devon centres or partner venues, building confidence, collaboration, and communication.
- Dedicated support – we work closely with employers and apprentices to ensure success at every stage.
Funding
This apprenticeship can be fully funded through your Apprenticeship Levy Account if you are a Levy-paying employer.
If you are a Non-Levy paying employer, the government will fund 95% of the total cost, with the employer contributing the remaining 5%.
However, for apprentices aged 16 to 21, the government will fully fund 100% of the cost, with no employer contribution required.
Additionally, Skern can support you in identifying and applying for Levy Transfer funds, which can cover the full cost for other age groups—making the apprenticeship 100% fully funded for all eligible learners.
Register your interest
