Course details may be subject to change.
New College Durham is an approved provider of CIPD qualifications.
This higher apprenticeship programme is ideal for staff who are currently working in HR or have completed the Level 3 Certificate in Human Resource Practice. The higher apprenticeship follows the Level 3 Certificate and will allow you to further develop your knowledge and practical application in key areas of HR and the wider business context.
The Diploma is an intermediate-level qualification (equivalent to NVQ/SVQ Level 5) and is designed to reflect the CIPD HR Profession Map and the new professional membership criteria - completion of the course leads to CIPD membership.
This flexible apprenticeship is delivered in partnership with Mindful Education, and combines online learning with face-to-face lessons in the classroom.
Entry Criteria
You will hold:
- Level 2 maths and English (or you will be required to complete these alongside the apprenticeship programme)
- A relevant Level 3 qualification
- And/or experience of working within a relevant HR role
Additional Costs
You must purchase a CIPD membership at the start of the programme as this is an essential requirement for you to work in HR. CIPD may withhold your certificate on completion if you do not hold a membership.
What are the next steps?
You will attend an informal interview. Please bring evidence of your previous qualifications.
Please report to the NCD University Centre reception where you will be greeted by one of the team
Study Aims
This apprenticeship programme aims to develop your knowledge and understanding in key areas of people practice, as well as an understanding of people practice in a business context.
You will be able to demonstrate a sound understanding of the knowledge, skills and behaviour required of a people practitioner, whether your role is generalist in nature or specialist.
The programme will help you to develop practical and relevant skills and above all, provide you with confidence.
Modules Studied
Topics typically studied include the following – modules are subject to change by the curriculum team:
- Organisational performance and culture in practice
- Evidence based practice
- Professional behaviours and valuing people
- Employment relationship management
- Talent management and workforce planning
- Reward for performance and contribution
- Specialist employment law
Teaching and Assessment
This programme is delivered via blended learning in partnership with Mindful Education. You will attend a face-to-face session on site at New College Durham every other week and engage in online learning via the Mindful Education platform.
Each session includes taught theory and seminar activities. The sessions are inclusive and develop your knowledge and practice of being a people practitioner.
Sessions are interactive so you can apply the theory into practice. Each unit has an assessment which has been designed and written by CIPD.
As an apprentice, you will be required to do 20% off the job training and you will work with you own individual apprenticeship skills coordinator to plan this.
Industry Links
We have links with the CIPD North East Branch – you will be encouraged to attend at least one of their events per academic year. These are based in the region and provide excellent support and advice, usually free of charge.
We also have strong industry links with ACAS, CIPD and professional organisations who may come in and deliver guest speaker slots throughout the programme.
What else?
The CIPD has been championing better work and working lives for over 100 years. It helps organisations thrive by focusing on their people, supporting our economies and societies. It’s the professional body for HR, L&D, OD and all people professionals – experts in people, work and change. With almost 160,000 members globally – and a growing community using its research, insights and learning – it gives trusted advice and offers independent thought leadership. It’s a leading voice in the call for good work that creates value for everyone.
You may choose to progress to a Level 7 CIPD programme at New College Durham and/or gain employment within the industry.
