CIPD - Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development

CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice with Work Experience

Are you looking to start a career in HR but unsure where to start? Does the idea of guaranteed work experience sound ideal? Are you worried about a lack of HR experience? Our CIPD Level 3 Career Academy with Work Experience gives you the essential people management skills, HR knowledge, and hands-on work experience you need to land your first role in HR. No previous HR experience is required, making this perfect for beginners.

We've enhanced our comprehensive CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice by adding guaranteed work experience. This combination helps bridge the gap between education and employment in HR.

The CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice with Work Experience is designed for individuals aspiring to start or enhance their careers in human resources, particularly those with little or no prior experience. This CIPD Level 3 course provides the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to progress in a CIPD-qualified HR role.

Upon completing the CIPD Level 3 qualification, you will gain 4-16 weeks of remote work experience with established companies, providing invaluable real-world exposure. This hands-on experience significantly boosts your employability, with 1 in 4 students typically receiving job offers from their host employers.

Graduates are well-prepared for an HR support role, such as HR Assistant, HR Administrator, or Organisational Development Officer. You can then progress to positions like Learning Administrator or People and Culture Assistant.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is the world’s leading professional body for HR and people development. Our course provides you with a robust qualification recognised by employers globally. Once you've successfully completed your CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice, you become a Foundation Member and can use the designation 'Foundation CIPD'.

Our CIPD Level 3 course is delivered through a flexible, online learning platform, allowing you to study at your own pace. You can access comprehensive course materials, interactive resources, and ongoing tutor support. Regular live online sessions provide opportunities to interact with your tutor and fellow students.

The CIPD's Foundation qualification is Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) Level 3 in England and Northern Ireland. Earning this qualification will help you to start understanding how to work and show your team how to work in a respectful and inclusive manner, adhering to ethical principles.

To receive a mark on your CIPD course, you must register for a CIPD Student Membership, which is not included in the course fee. Visit the CIPD Membership Fees to learn the updated annual student membership fee.

Key features
  • Course Access: 12 months
  • Price match guarantee, with interest-free payment options.
  • A CIPD qualification is the 'gold standard' in HR training.
  • Achieve CIPD membership.
  • Unlimited tutor support from expert trainers.
  • Delivery Method: Online, self-paced study.
  • Includes Employability Preparation
  • Guaranteed Work Experience
  • Typically, 1 in 4 students is offered a job with their host company
£3,295£2,295Inc. VAT
FREE Course Advice
Key features
  • Course Access: 12 months
  • Price match guarantee, with interest-free payment options.
  • A CIPD qualification is the 'gold standard' in HR training.
  • Achieve CIPD membership.
  • Unlimited tutor support from expert trainers.
  • Delivery Method: Online, self-paced study.
  • Includes Employability Preparation
  • Guaranteed Work Experience
  • Typically, 1 in 4 students is offered a job with their host company
About the Course
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Course Details

Unit 1 - Business, Culture, and Change in Context

This unit considers the impact of external influences and how the digital and commercial environment shapes businesses and the culture within which they operate. It considers the importance of people’s behaviour on organisational culture and its ability to manage change effectively.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the business environment in which the people profession operates, including the key issues that affect it.

  • Understand how people’s behaviour in the workplace affects and shapes culture.

  • Understand the importance of effective management of change.

Unit 2 - Principles of Analytics

This unit looks at how people professionals make both straightforward and complex choices as they carry out their roles. It focuses on how utilising a diverse range of analytics and evidence is essential to the rationalisation and enhancement of working practices and situational decision-making to create value.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand how evidence-based practice informs organisational measures and outcomes.

  • Explain different types of data measurements that people professionals use.

  • Know how creating value benefits employees, customers and wider stakeholders.

Unit 3 - Core Behaviours for People Professionals

This unit introduces the core behaviours for people professionals, focusing on ethical practice, professional values and professional development. It considers how certain ways of thinking and acting should be universally consistent, even in new and challenging situations, to promote inclusivity and respect in the organisation

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand insightful approaches to supporting and maintaining ethics and professional practice.

  • Be able to promote respect and inclusive working underpinned by professional courage and a passion for learning.

  • Demonstrate proactive approaches to developing, recording and reflecting on your professional knowledge, skills and experience.

Unit 4 - Essentials of People Practice

This unit introduces the fundamentals of people practice, ranging from the employee lifecycle to policies, regulations and law. It further explores a diverse array of specialist subjects such as recruitment, talent management, reward, and learning and development, which are essential to a career in people practice. Importantly, this unit enables practitioners to apply their knowledge and skills, building their confidence and ability to practise progressively.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the employee lifecycle and different roles within it.

  • Be able to contribute to the effective selection and appointment of individuals.

  • Know how legislation and organisational practices affect employment relationships.

  • Know the importance of performance management in motivating and retaining individuals.

  • Know the importance of reward in attracting, motivating and retaining individuals.

  • Understand how to support others to develop the skills and knowledge required to meet both individual and organisational objectives.

To earn your CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice qualification, you must complete four written assignments (one per unit).

We offer you a draft assignment included in this training course. You can have it checked by a Tutor before submitting it, and you have three attempts at passing it.

Total qualification time: 240 hours

Number of assessments: 4

The CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate is the perfect opportunity for those interested in people management to begin their journey, as no prior HR experience is necessary.

This entry-level qualification into HR and L&D is perfect if you are:

  • Beginners in HR: Gain technical HR knowledge and practical experience to kickstart your HR career.

  • Job Seekers: Enhance your employability with practical experience and internationally recognised CIPD Foundation qualification in human resources management.

  • Aspiring HR Professionals: Start your HR journey with comprehensive training and hands-on experience.

  • Career Changers: Transition into an HR career with focused training, certifications, and guaranteed work experience.

This CIPD Level 3 qualification is also a stepping stone to further your HR or L&D career and advance in other CIPD courses, such as the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in Organisational L&D or the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management.

As part of our CIPD Career Academy with Work Experience programme, you will get access to the following:

  • Guaranteed Remote Work Experience
    This practical work placement allows you to apply the skills and knowledge you’ve learned in the CIPD Level 3 course, making you job-ready from day one.

  • 1 in 4 Students typically secure job offers
    A significant number of our students receive job offers from their host companies upon completion.

  • Comprehensive HR Training and Certification
    Our course covers the CIPD Level 3, an internationally recognised CIPD qualification, giving you a solid foundation in HR context principles, core behaviours, and ethical practices essential for any people professional.

  • Globally recognised training in HR skills
    CIPD qualification is renowned in the HR industry, producing professionals who excel in people management and development.

  • Professional CV, LinkedIn, and cover letter writing services
    Stand out to prospective employers with a professionally crafted CV, optimised LinkedIn profile, and personalised cover letter, all guided by our writing experts to highlight your strengths and qualifications.

  • Access to the Kogan Page resource library
    Enjoy access to over 90 leading eBooks covering essential HR topics. Our comprehensive eLearning platform includes all course materials. However, if you prefer physical books, you can enjoy a 20% discount on official textbooks.

  • Scheduled live online classes
    Participate in weekly live sessions, including drop-in Q&A sessions for each module, to discuss assessment strategies with tutors.

  • Comprehensive career support programme
    From your initial consultation to completing your work experience, you'll receive ongoing career advice, employability preparation, and support to ensure you're ready to enter the job market confidently.

  • Flexible online learning
    Learn at your own pace with our online classrooms, weekly live/recorded sessions, and a wealth of resources.

  • Community Forums: Connect with fellow CIPD students, share insights, and collaborate through our online forums.

  • Key Notes for efficient learning: Take notes as you go, download them, and incorporate them into your assignments. Build your assignments as you study instead of doing it all at the end.

  • Comprehensive assessment checklist: We have a detailed checklist to ensure you cover all necessary elements in your assignments.

  • Affordable CIPD training: Benefit from our price match guarantee and interest-free payment options, making high-quality CIPD training accessible.

What is CIPD level 3 equivalent to?

CIPD Level 3 is equivalent to an A-level qualification. This qualification is for people who are new to HR or L&D, or who want to formalise their existing knowledge and skills. It's also popular with people who are switching careers.

Who is the CIPD Level 3 with Work Experience programme designed for?

This programme is ideal for individuals looking to start a career in Human Resources (HR) or those seeking to enhance their people management skills. It's suitable for beginners in HR, career changers, or anyone interested in gaining a recognised qualification in HR, along with practical work experience—an opportunity exclusively offered by e-Careers.

Is a CIPD Level 3 worth it?

Yes, CIPD Level 3 is a great investment if you are starting your career in HR. It equips you with essential HR knowledge and skills, boosting your employability and laying the groundwork for further professional development.

How long does CIPD Level 3 take?

On average, CIPD Level 3 takes 7-9 months to complete. However, you’ll have up to 12 months of access to finish the course at your own pace.

Can you do CIPD without a degree?

Yes, you can pursue CIPD qualifications without a degree. The CIPD Level 3 course is open to anyone, regardless of previous academic background.

Can I do a CIPD course online?

Yes, at e-Careers, you can complete your CIPD course entirely online. Our CIPD with Work Experience programme offers flexible, online learning through an interactive platform, allowing you to access all study materials, attend live classes, and even watch recorded sessions at your convenience.

Additionally, you'll benefit from unlimited tutor support and remote work experience, giving you a comprehensive HR training experience from the comfort of your home.

Do I need a CIPD to work in HR?

While there's no legal requirement for you to have a CIPD qualification to work in HR, most employers prefer candidates with CIPD accreditation. It demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and adherence to industry standards.

Is CIPD internationally recognised?

Yes, CIPD is internationally recognised. Employers across the globe value CIPD qualifications as a mark of professional competence in human resources and people management.

What are the entry requirements for CIPD?

There are no formal entry requirements to enrol in CIPD courses. However, it is recommended that learners are aged 18+ and have the literacy and numeracy skills necessary to meet the learning outcomes.

What can our CIPD with Work Experience do for your HR journey?

CIPD Level 3 Career Academy with Work Experience is a holistic programme combining learning, training, and practical experience. Through this programme, you'll get:

  • Eligibility to register and gain CIPD Foundation Membership

  • Guaranteed remote work experience

  • Globally recognised CIPD qualification

  • 1 in 4 learners typically secure job offers

  • Employability support (CV writing and LinkedIn bio creation) 

  • Real-life projects and daily operational tasks

  • Continuous feedback and mentorship

What qualification will I receive upon completing this CIPD Level 3 course?

Upon successful completion, you will receive the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice, a globally recognised qualification that marks the beginning of your HR career.

Can I put CIPD after my name?

You can use the post-nominals 'Foundation CIPD' after your name once you have completed CIPD Level 3 and gained Foundation membership status with CIPD.

Can I get a job offer from the work experience programme?

Yes, 1 in 4 students typically receives a job offer from their host employer after completing the work experience. The programme is designed to enhance employability by combining academic learning with practical, real-world experience.

How long is the work experience, and is it paid?

We offer unpaid work experience that typically lasts 4 to 16 weeks, depending on the employer and your availability. The placement is designed to provide valuable experience that you can use for your career.

What can I do with CIPD level 3?

Below are the jobs you can do with a CIPD Level 3 qualification.

  • HR and L&D Assistant: £26K - £30K/yr

  • People and Culture Assistant: £24K - £30K/yr

  • HR Administrator: £28K - £32K/yr

  • HR Manager: £47K - £57K/yr

  • Organisational Development Officer: £47K - £59K/yr

*Source: Glassdoor

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