Explore the different ways to get into this role. You can get into this job through:

• Acquiring right qualifications
• Gaining relevant work experience
• Completing an apprenticeship

Right Qualifications

While not always necessary, having certifications can really set you apart, especially if you don’t have much hands-on project management experience. Here are a few worth considering:

• PRINCE2 Foundation – This is a well-known methodology from the UK that shows you understand the key principles and processes of structured project management.
• APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) – This entry-level qualification from the Association for Project Management covers the basics of project management that everyone should know.
• Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) –Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this globally recognised certification is perfect for those just starting out in project management.

Entry requirements

You’ll usually need:

• You don’t need any formal qualifications or previous project experience to dive into PRINCE2 Foundation and APM PFQ, which makes them super accessible for anyone curious about project management.
• To qualify for CAPM, you’ll need a secondary education (like GCSEs or something similar) and to complete 23 hours of project management education or relevant coursework; but you don’t need any prior project experience to get started.

Relevant Work Experience

Gaining hands-on experience is crucial for crafting a standout CV and showcasing your skills to future employers. Here are some effective ways to build that experience:

• Start in a Project Support Role – Positions like Project Coordinator, Project Administrator, or Project Support Officer can give you valuable insight into project management processes and tools while you work alongside seasoned managers.
• Undertake Internships – Look for project management internships or work placements, which many companies offer to university students and recent graduates, often with the added bonus of being paid.
• Manage Small Projects – Take the lead on smaller initiatives in your current or past roles, like organising events or streamlining business processes.
• Volunteer Experience – Hone your project skills by spearheading projects for nonprofit organisations or international programmes, such as VSO.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships provide a clear path into project management, blending real-world training with formal qualifications, all while you earn a salary. Here’s a quick look at two options:

• Level 4 Associate Project Manager Apprenticeship – Perfect for those overseeing small to medium projects, this often includes the APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ).
• Level 6 Project Manager Degree Apprenticeship – This advanced route lets you earn a full bachelor’s degree in project management while gaining valuable hands-on experience in the field.

Entry requirements

• Five GCSEs with grades between 9 and 4 (A* to C) for a Level 4 apprenticeship, including English and Maths. Employers might also appreciate relevant work experience or a solid interest in project management.
• A Level 6 apprenticeship generally requires A-levels (or equivalent Level 3 qualifications) along with GCSEs in English and Maths. Having relevant work experience and a genuine passion for project management can really give you an edge.

Other Routes

When it comes to stepping into a Junior Project Manager role, there’s more than just formal qualifications, relevant work experience, and apprenticeships to consider. There are plenty of other avenues to explore that can help you leverage your existing skills, expand your professional network, and gain valuable hands-on experience in various work settings.

• Internal Progression I – You can transition into project management from another position within your organisation, like a team assistant, office administrator, or business support role.
• Graduate Schemes – Consider joining graduate programmes that have a project management focus, which provide structured training and a chance to rotate through different projects.
• Temporary or Contract Roles – Taking on short-term project positions can give you practical experience and may even lead to a permanent job.
• Networking and Referrals – Building relationships with project managers, PMO staff, or professional organisations (like APM) can open doors to opportunities that aren’t publicly advertised.
• Transferable Skills from Other Sectors – Don’t underestimate the skills you’ve gained in customer service, operations, finance, or events management; they can all be applied to a career in project management.

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role

Skills and knowledge

You’ll need:

• A solid grasp of project management methodologies
• Skilled in using project management and office software
• Experience with budgeting, cost control, and resource allocation
• Ability to identify and mitigate risks
• Expertise in scheduling and managing time effectively
• Proficient in documentation, reporting, and tracking progress
• Strong communication skills and adept at managing stakeholders
• Capable of leading teams and coordinating efforts
• Excellent organisational skills and a keen eye for detail
• Strong problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills
• Adaptable and flexible in fast-paced environments

Restrictions and Requirements

You’ll need to:

• Showcase your strong organisational, communication, and IT skills.
• Highlight any previous experience in project support or coordination roles.
• Ensure you meet sector-specific checks (like those in healthcare, government, or defence).
• Keep in mind that visa sponsorship might be limited for entry-level positions.
• A-levels or equivalent qualifications are required (a degree or certifications are preferred).

Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role.

Day-to-day tasks

As a Junior Project Manager, your main focus is to assist senior managers and the broader team in keeping projects on track, within scope, and on budget. This entry-level role gives you a chance to experience every phase of the project lifecycle. Here are some typical responsibilities you can expect:

• Preparing and maintaining project documentation
• Organising and coordinating meetings
• Tracking progress and providing updates
• Assigning and monitoring tasks
• Supporting budget management
• Ensuring clear communication among team members and stakeholders
• Identifying and addressing any risks or issues
• Assisting with stakeholder engagement
• Carrying out industry-specific tasks as needed

Working environment

You can kickstart your career as a Junior Project Manager in a variety of fields, including IT, construction, engineering, finance, healthcare, and marketing. There are plenty of opportunities out there, from small startups to major global players like BAE Systems and TalkTalk.

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

In your first year as a Junior Project Manager, you’ll focus on supporting senior managers while honing your core project management skills through hands-on experience. As you develop and earn certifications, you’ll have the opportunity to move up into senior positions like Senior Project Manager, Programme Manager, or even Director-level roles.

First Year:

• You’ll be managing schedules, organising meetings, preparing agendas, updating documentation, and keeping track of progress.
• Acting as a point of contact, you’ll provide updates, manage expectations, and escalate risks while helping to develop mitigation strategies.
• You’ll create progress reports, maintain documentation, and keep an eye on KPIs to ensure everything stays on track.

With Experience:

• You’ll take full ownership of projects or oversee multiple, more complex ones while mentoring junior team members.
• You’ll advance into strategic roles, coordinating related projects or managing a portfolio that spans the entire organisation.
• You might find yourself moving into areas like Agile/Scrum Master, IT/Digital Project Manager, or Construction Project Manager.
• You could also transition into management consulting or senior leadership roles such as PMO Director, where you’ll help shape standards and governance throughout the organisation.

In England

PRINCE2® Foundation Qualification Provider: A PeopleCert (AXELOS) Certified Institute Start date: Anytime Location: London

PRINCE2® Practitioner Certification A PeopleCert (AXELOS) Certified Institute Start date: Anytime Location: London

PRINCE2® Foundation & Practitioner Certification Provider: A PeopleCert (AXELOS) Certified Institute Start date: Anytime Location: London