L6 Certificate in Strategic Planning and Leadership
Develop the high-level insight, strategic thinking and governance capability needed to operate confidently at senior leadership level — including preparing for roles such as Non-Executive Director (NED) or board-level advisor.
This Ofqual-regulated Level 6 Certificate equips learners with advanced knowledge in governance, strategic planning, marketing strategy, financial oversight and organisational risk.
It is ideal for senior professionals, aspiring NEDs, and leaders ready to influence organisational direction at a strategic level.
Who is this for?
This qualification is perfect for:
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Aspiring or current Non-Executive Directors (NEDs)
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Senior leaders, managers or board advisors
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Experienced professionals progressing into governance roles
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Individuals responsible for strategic direction, risk, financial oversight or stakeholder influence
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Organisations developing senior leadership and governance capability
Entry Requirements:
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No formal entry requirements
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Recommended: Level 2 English & Maths
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Suitable for learners aged 18+
What you’ll learn
Learners complete three mandatory units totalling 13 credits:
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The Role of the Non-Executive Director – 5 credits
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Finance for the Non-Executive Director – 4 credits
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Marketing & Strategy for the Non-Executive Director – 4 credits
The programme provides a blend of strategic leadership, financial acumen, governance skills and strategic marketing competence.
Mandatory Units
✨ The Role of the Non-Executive Director
(Level 6 – 14 GLH – 5 credits)
Learn what it means to operate at board level and contribute strategically.
Topics include:
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Purpose and function of the board
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Roles, expectations and influence of a NED
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Strategic skills required for effective governance
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Managing risk, reward, compliance and legal responsibilities
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Evaluating board dynamics and dealing with conflict
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Planning and implementing organisational change
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Stakeholder management and influencing
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Creating a high-impact elevator pitch as a NED
✨Finance for the Non-Executive Director
(Level 6 – 11 GLH – 4 credits)
Strengthen your ability to interpret financial information at a strategic level.
You will learn to:
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Interpret key financial statements:
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Profit & Loss
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Balance Sheet
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Cash Flow
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Cash Flow Forecasts
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Use financial terminology accurately
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Understand cash flow drivers (and what doesn’t affect cash flow)
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Apply financial ratio analysis
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Identify financial concerns and evaluate performance
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Understand budgeting, forecasting and stakeholder expectations
✨Marketing & Strategy for the Non-Executive Director
(Level 6 – 11 GLH – 4 credits)
Gain the strategic insight required to guide organisational growth and competitive positioning.
Topics include:
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Evaluating organisational strategy
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Challenging the marketing position constructively
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Return on investment in marketing
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Integrating market feedback for competitive advantage
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Using communication channels to advance strategy
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Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats
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Strategic thinking, risk management and scenario impact
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Strategic models such as:
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SWOT
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STEEPLE
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Porter’s Five Forces
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SMART
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Balanced Scorecard
(Page 14–15)
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Qualification Details
Award: Level 6 Certificate in Strategic Planning & Leadership (RQF)
Credits: 13 credits
Guided Learning Hours: 36 hours
Total Qualification Time (TQT): 130 hours
Assessment: Internally assessed assignments & portfolio (no exams)
Delivery: 100% online with tutor support
Why choose Cubitt Education?
✨ Specialists in leadership, teamwork and business improvement
✨ Expert tutors with industry experience
✨ Practical tasks linked to real workplace benefits
✨ One-to-one learner support throughout
✨ Fully recognised and awarded qualification
We empower learners to grow — and help organisations streamline, save and succeed.
Pricing & enrolment options
Standard Individual Enrolment
✨ £1800 per learner
Includes:
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Full online learning platform access
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Tutor support and expert feedback
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All assessment and IQA fees
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Certification
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Templates, models and governance tools
Group / Workplace Programmes
✨ Discounted rates for 6+ learners — ideal for employers wanting to develop new or existing team leaders.
✨ Group packages can include:
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Live virtual workshops or blended delivery
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Contextualised examples and case studies for your organisation
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Employer progress reports and check-ins
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Support with aligning to internal leadership frameworks
✨ Contact us for a tailored quote for your organisation.
After completing this Level 6 qualification, learners can progress to:
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Level 6 Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership
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Level 7 Diploma in Management
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Level 8 Diploma in Management
(Page 6)
Career pathways include:
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Non-Executive Director
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Board Advisor
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Senior Manager / Strategic Lead
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Governance & Compliance roles
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Senior Consultant positions
This qualification also enhances credibility for individuals working with boards, governing bodies, charities, local authorities and private-sector organisations.