LEVEL 3 AWARD IN FIRST LINE MANAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP (CMI)

Introduction

The CMI Level 3 Award in First Line Management and Leadership is designed for aspiring and practising first-line managers who want to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to lead and manage people effectively.

This qualification will help you understand the key principles of first-line management and develop your ability to lead teams, communicate effectively, manage performance and support the development of others.

Delivered through flexible remote learning, the course allows you to study around your work and other commitments, with access to online learning materials, dedicated tutor support and personalised one-to-one sessions.

Whether you are preparing for your first management role or looking to strengthen your existing management skills, this nationally recognised CMI qualification provides an excellent opportunity to develop your leadership capability and support your career progression.

This qualification is ideal if you want to:

Develop your confidence as a manager or team leader
Build practical leadership and management skills
Prepare for your first management or supervisory role
Enhance your CV and career progression opportunities
Gain a nationally recognised CMI qualification
Develop your knowledge while continuing to work

Invest in your future and take the next step towards becoming an effective and confident leader.

Course code

OAFL

Location

Varies

Duration

Remote learning with access to online materials
Tutor support via email, phone, or video call
One-to-one sessions to guide your progress
Up to 6 weeks to complete your chosen unit

Each Unit varies with Total Qualification Time.

Unit 330
Credits: 8
Guided Learning Hours: 40
Total Unit Time: 80 hours

Learners are encouraged to follow this schedule to ensure timely progression through the course.
If the outlined timeframes are not met, additional fees may be incurred to extend access or support beyond the standard duration.

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification, and you do not need to hold a previous management qualification.

The qualification is suitable for those who are currently working in, or aspiring to, a first-line management or supervisory role and want to develop their management and leadership skills.

Additional Entry Requirements

Important Notice for All Course Attendees To attend and complete the course, you must bring valid photographic identification. Acceptable forms of ID include:

A valid UK passport
A full or provisional UK driving licence

Please note:

Failure to present a valid photo ID on the day may result in you being unable to complete the course. This requirement is part of our compliance procedures and is essential for verifying participant identity. Thank you for your cooperation.

To successfully participate in our online courses, learners must have access to a suitable digital device such as a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet with a reliable internet connection. This ensures that students can view course materials, take part in interactive activities, and complete assessments without technical difficulties. Having the appropriate device is essential for fully engaging with the learning platform and getting the best possible experience from the course.

Course Content

You will complete one unit from the CMI Level 3 suite. The default unit is:

Unit 330 – Organisational Awareness for First Line Managers
This unit is ideal for those who want to develop a stronger understanding of how organisations operate and how their role as a first-line manager contributes to wider organisational success.

You will explore:

Organisational structures and how different organisations operate
The influence of organisational culture, values and ethics
The role and responsibilities of a first-line manager
How organisational objectives and strategic business plans influence day-to-day management
How first-line managers can contribute to achieving organisational goals and success
The importance of understanding the wider organisation when making decisions and managing people

The unit will help you develop a broader perspective of your organisation and understand how your own role, decisions and actions can contribute to achieving its objectives.

CMI Level 3 Qualifications – Credit Requirements

Award: 6 credits (1 unit), Approximately 50 Total Qualification Time
Certificate: 13 Credits (2-3 Units), Approximately 130 Total Qualification Time
Diploma: 37 Credits (6+ Units), Approximately 370 Total Qualification Time

Assessments

The CMI Level 3 Award is assessed through written assignments designed to demonstrate your understanding of key management principles and your ability to apply them in a workplace context.

Written Assignment: Learners complete one assignment based on the selected unit
Unit-Based: Each unit has its own assessment brief aligned with CMI learning outcomes.
Work-Based Evidence: Assignments often encourage reflection on real workplace scenarios, making them highly practical and relevant.

Progression

Upon successful completion of your unit, you will be awarded the:

CMI Level 3 Award in Principles of Management and Leadership

You can then choose to continue your studies by completing additional units to achieve:

CMI Level 3 Firsl Line Management – Certificate/Diploma

This flexible pathway allows you to build your qualification over time, adapting to your career needs

Additional funding information

Are you, or do you employ, someone aged 16–25?

In partnership with The Holywood Trust, fully funded training is available to help young people across Dumfries and Galloway build skills for a career in the hospitality industry—whether they are just starting out or already working in the sector.

Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.

To secure a place and access this funding, please complete the relevant booking form below:

Training Booking Form Funded By The Holywood Trust for 15 – 25 Year Olds – Fill in form