RETAIL LEADERS DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP 2026

Main Duties

Due to high interest, this role may close earlier than advertised. We recommend applying as soon as possible.

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and step into the world of customer-first retail. On this entry-level degree apprenticeship, you’ll combine hands-on store experience with academic learning to build the skills you need to become a future M&S store leader. From day one, you’ll take on real responsibility, earn while you learn, and work towards a Level 6 Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship in Business Management.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll start your journey as a Customer Assistant, working across departments including Food, Clothing and Home. This will give you a strong understanding of store operations and the vital role every colleague plays in delivering for our customers. By December, you’ll already be leading a project in store, building confidence and taking accountability.

Six months in, you’ll enrol onto the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship, balancing academic study with your day-to-day role. With support from managers and mentors, you’ll step into your first Team Manager role, leading a team and learning how to drive performance. As you progress, you’ll prepare for Deputy or Store Manager responsibilities within 18–24 months, gaining experience of leading your own store team and supporting daily operations.

Skills and Experience Required

What you’ll need

You’ll need strong functional literacy and numeracy skills (A*-C/9-4 in GCSE English and Maths or equivalent). If you don’t have formal qualifications, you can complete Level 2 Functional Skills alongside the apprenticeship. You must also have been a UK resident for at least three years before the start of the programme or hold pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

What we look for

We’re looking for ambitious, curious people who want to grow into leadership roles. You’ll need resilience and determination to balance study with the demands of retail, along with the confidence to step up and lead teams early in your career. Strong communication skills, a customer-first mindset and the ability to adapt quickly will set you up for success. Above all, you’ll be motivated to learn, take responsibility and help shape the future of M&S retail.

Requirements

• Strong functional literacy and numeracy skills (GCSE English & Maths at A*-C/9-4 or equivalent, or willingness to complete Functional Skills Level 2)

• Right to work in the UK for the full duration of the apprenticeship

• UK residency for at least three years before the programme begins, or pre-settled/settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.

• Due to eligibility requirements set by the Home Office, we are currently unable to sponsor Retail Management roles.

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Equal Opportunities Statement

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, regardless of their race, disability, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion and belief, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity and caring responsibility. We are committed to offering a working environment where everyone is valued and feels appreciated.