Assessment for this module combines an externally benchmarked professional examination with a reflective written report, enabling apprentices to demonstrate both technical competence and evaluative insight.

* Benefits realisation report (100%, Learning Outcomes 1,2, 3, 4) – apprentices will produce a structured report based on one of their workplace projects, ideally one nearing completion or recently concluded. The report should identify expected versus realised benefits, assess the impact of both tangible and intangible outcomes, and evaluate the processes by which benefits were tracked, measured and embedded into business-as-usual. The apprentice should also reflect on missed opportunities, challenges encountered, and recommendations for improving future projects.

Together, these assessments ensure apprentices demonstrate both applied methodological competence and the ability to critically evaluate project outcomes in a workplace context.

This module consolidates the apprentice’s learning by focusing on how projects deliver value to organisations through benefits planning and realisation. Apprentices will examine the principles and processes of benefits management across the project lifecycle, from initial identification in the business case through to measurement, tracking and embedding outcomes into business-as-usual operations. The role of both tangible and intangible benefits will be explored, alongside the challenges of ensuring benefits are aligned with organisational strategy. Apprentices will study structured approaches such as APM PMQ, developing an applied understanding of how methodologies support benefits delivery and how governance frameworks underpin accountability. Emphasis will also be placed on critical evaluation through lessons learned, encouraging apprentices to assess successes, missed opportunities and recommendations for future improvement. By applying these concepts to their own workplace projects, apprentices will connect academic theory with practical impact, recognising how project management contributes to organisational performance and long-term value.

Learning within this module maps to the following Sustainable Development Goals:
* 4: Quality Education
* 5: Gender Equality
* 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
* 10: Reduced Inequalities
* 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Learning within this module maps to the following Fundamental British Values:
* Mutual respect
* Tolerance

Learning within this module maps to the following principles of Safeguarding:
* Safeguarding & supporting individuals

Learning within this module maps to the following principles of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:
* Fair and ethical leadership
* Embedding EDI in organisational policies
* Flexibility for different needs

1. Explain the principles and processes of benefits management, from planning through to realisation, within the project lifecycle

Apprenticeship standard: K3, K5, K7, K8, K10

University Learning Outcome: Knowledge and Understanding, Enquiry

2. Review project benefits through project methodologies including planning, delivery and realisation

Apprenticeship standard: S3, S6, S7, S8, B1, B3, B4, B5

University Learning Outcome: Application, Problem Solving

3. Evaluate whether the benefits have been realised including missed opportunities and lessons learned

Apprenticeship standard: S3, S6, S7, S8, B1, B3, B4, B5

University Learning Outcome: Analysis, Reflection, Application

4. Critically evaluate project performance to formulate evidence-based recommendations for improving future practice.

Apprenticeship standard: S3, S6, S7, S8, B1, B3, B4, B5

University Learning Outcome: Reflection, Communication, Learning

This module will be delivered through a combination of face-to-face on campus lectures and online webinars, designed to provide an engaging and interactive learning experience. Face-to-face lectures will incorporate formal teaching, group work, case study analysis, and guest speakers. Apprentices will also be encouraged to share their workplace experiences to enhance peer learning. Meanwhile, online webinars will take the form of recorded content, interactive e-learning, or live tutorials, offering opportunities for group discussion, presentations, flipped-classroom activities, and further group work and case study analysis.

Additional learning activities include:
* Engaging with supplementary online content, including videos and presentations
* Independent reading to reinforce and expand on formal teaching
* Completing formative tasks set by the lecturer to consolidate learning
* Preparing for assessments, writing, and gathering evidence
* Developing and maintaining a portfolio of evidence

In line with DfE Apprenticeship Funding Rules, this module includes 100 off-the-job (OTJ) training hours as standard, covering new learning funded by the apprenticeship levy. A total 300 nominal learning hours has been attributed to this module, incorporating OTJ training alongside broader academic development beyond levy-funded new learning. Please refer to your Aptem account to identify your individualised off-the-job hours.

Computer facilities to access online materials.
Access to specialist online databases, appropriate core texts and journals via the library, module leader, and own research.

This module is typically open to apprentices enrolled on the Project Manager (Degree) Apprenticeship programme. The module is also open to those who wish to undertake it as a standalone module. Such candidates should be currently in or working towards project management or support roles.

Crawford, C. (2023) Unleashing the Power of Benefits Realisation Management: Maximising Your Return on Project and Change Initiatives. Glasgow: Enlighten Publications.

Rytter, R. (2022) Benefits Realisation: The Change-Driven Approach to Project Success. Copenhagen: Implement Consulting Group.

Wilde, S. (2023) Benefits Realisation Management: The Benefit Manager’s Desktop Step-by-Step Guide. London: Clink Street Publishing.

Zwikael, O. and Smyrk, J. (2020) Project Management: A Benefit Realisation Approach. 2nd edn. Cham: Springer.

This module focuses on how projects create value for organisations through the planning, delivery and realisation of benefits. You will explore how benefits are identified, measured and tracked across the project lifecycle, and how they are embedded into business-as-usual to ensure lasting impact. Tangible and intangible benefits will be considered, alongside the governance processes that support accountability and alignment with organisational strategy. You will also engage with structured methodologies such as PRINCE2, applying them to your workplace practice. Assessment is through the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam (or an equivalent such as the APM Project Management Qualification, if required) and a lessons learned report based on a workplace project. Together, these assessments ensure you demonstrate methodological competence while critically evaluating how benefits are achieved and sustained in your professional context.