CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice (Blended Learning) - Level 3

What is the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice Level 3 course?

The CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice (Level 3) is a nationally recognised professional qualification for adults aged 19 and over who want to begin or develop a career in Human Resources (HR), Learning and Development (L&D), or People Practice.

Delivered by West Notts College, a CIPD Approved Platinum Study Centre, this part-time blended learning course has been designed around the latest CIPD Profession Map, helping you develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours employers expect from today's people professionals.

This flexible study option combines online learning with monthly on-campus tutorials, making it ideal if you need to fit your studies around work, family or other commitments while still benefiting from face-to-face tutor support.

If you have not studied for a while, our experienced tutors will support you every step of the way in a friendly, welcoming environment designed specifically for adult learners.

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Who should study the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice qualification?

This course is suitable for adults aged 19+ who want to:

• Start a career in Human Resources (HR)
• Begin a career in Learning and Development (L&D)
• Develop a career in People Practice
• Formalise existing workplace experience with a recognised professional qualification
• Build confidence before progressing to higher-level CIPD qualifications
• Gain practical knowledge to become more effective in a people-focused role
• Study flexibly through a combination of online learning and monthly college-based tutorials.

It is ideal for those returning to education, career changers, supervisors, administrators and anyone supporting people management within an organisation.

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What will you learn on the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice course?

During the course, you will study the core principles that underpin successful people management, including:

• Business, culture and change in context
• Principles of analytics
• Core behaviours for people professionals
• Essentials of people practice

You will develop practical knowledge of how HR and People Practice support organisations, employees and business performance. The qualification also helps you build professional behaviours, communication skills and confidence that can be applied immediately in the workplace.

Learning takes place through an interactive online learning platform with access to a live tutor, supported by monthly on-campus tutorial sessions where you can develop your knowledge, ask questions and learn alongside other students.

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Why choose West Notts College for your CIPD qualification?

Choosing West Notts College means learning with one of the UK's recognised CIPD Approved Platinum Study Centres, demonstrating consistently high standards in teaching, assessment and learner satisfaction.

You'll benefit from:

• CIPD Approved Platinum Study Centre status
• Experienced tutors with extensive HR industry knowledge
• Flexible blended learning that fits around work and family life
• Monthly on-campus tutorials to support your learning
• Opportunities to network with other HR professionals and students
• Modern learning facilities at Derby Road Campus
• Access to Moodle, Microsoft Teams and online learning resources
• Learning Resource Centre, café, restaurant and free parking
• Easy access via public transport
• Clear progression opportunities, including Level 5 CIPD qualifications and further study with Nottingham Trent University (Mansfield)

If you are not confident using digital technology such as email, Microsoft Word or Microsoft Teams, don't worry. We will support you throughout your studies and also offer free short digital and IT courses for adults to help you build confidence before your course begins.

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When does the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice course start?

The next course starts week commencing Monday 7 September 2026.

Early application is recommended as places are limited.

When do classes take place?

This blended learning course typically requires 3 to 4 hours of study each week.

Your learning includes:

• Flexible online study through our virtual learning platform
• Access to a live tutor for guidance and support
• One evening tutorial each month at our Derby Road Campus.

This delivery model allows you to study at times that suit you while still benefiting from regular face-to-face support.

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How much does the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice course cost?

The course fee is £1,395.

To make studying more affordable, you can spread the cost over four instalments.

If paying by instalments:

• Pay an initial deposit of £348.75 (25%) when enrolling.
• The remaining balance is collected by Direct Debit in three bi-monthly payments of £348.75.

Please contact our Finance team on 0808 100 3626 for more information about payment options.

Additional costs

You will also need to become a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). Membership fees are paid directly to CIPD and vary depending on the membership type selected.

Please contact the college for current membership guidance.

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How is the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice course delivered?

This course is delivered through a blended learning model, combining the flexibility of online study with regular face-to-face support.

You will learn through:

• Interactive online learning materials
• Access to a live tutor
• Monthly evening tutorials on campus
• Independent study
• Moodle and Microsoft Teams
• Practical activities and professional discussions

This approach allows you to study from home for most of the course while still receiving regular support from experienced tutors and connecting with fellow learners.

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Student success

Our learners consistently praise the quality of teaching, supportive learning environment and practical content.

Recent students have highlighted:

• Highly engaging teaching with real workplace examples.
• Excellent tutor support throughout the course.
• Inclusive learning with appropriate support for individual needs.
• Confidence to progress onto the Level 5 CIPD qualification.

• Kellymarie Smith

  I attended the CIPD Level 3 course as a foundation for beginning my career in HR, and I found the experience fantastic.

  The course was well structured, covering four key areas of learning: business, culture and change, principles of analytics, core behaviours of people professionals, and essentials of people practice. It provided a comprehensive introduction to the world of HR and is ideal for individuals looking to step into the profession, as well as those already working within HR who want to develop their knowledge further.

  Annette was an incredible course tutor, creating a structured and supportive learning environment that was consistent and engaging each week. She was always available to offer advice and guidance, and every session had a clear lesson plan, thorough content, and a valuable wrap-up to reinforce learning.

  I enjoyed the course so much that I returned to undertake the CIPD Level 5 qualification with the college.

• Stella Thorley

  I have no negative feedback and have successfully completed CIPD level 3 and in the process of achieving the level 5 qualification. The course content is highly engaging, with the tutor effectively incorporating real-world examples and scenarios, supported by a varied mix of multimedia to enhance learning. I was particularly surprised by the specialist employment law assignment, which proved far more interesting than I had anticipated.

  The college is also highly inclusive for disabled students. I was well supported by both my tutor and assessor, who ensured appropriate reasonable adjustments were in place. The provision of a scribe, significantly enhanced my classroom experience and helped to minimise fatigue.

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Frequently asked questions

• Is this CIPD Level 3 course suitable if I have no HR experience?

  Yes. The qualification is specifically designed for beginners and those looking to move into HR or People Practice.

• Is blended learning suitable if I work full time?

  Yes. This course has been designed to fit around work and other commitments by combining flexible online learning with one evening tutorial each month.

• Do I need strong IT skills?

  No. If you are not confident using digital tools, our tutors will support you throughout the course. We also offer free digital and IT courses to help you prepare before starting.

• Is this an official CIPD qualification?

  Yes. The qualification is awarded by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the UK's professional body for HR and People Development.

• Can I progress to Level 5 after completing this course?

  Yes. Many students continue their professional development by studying the CIPD Level 5 qualification.

• How do I apply for the CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice course?

  Applying is straightforward.

  Complete the online application through the West Notts College website or contact our Adult Learning team if you would like advice before applying.

  If you have any questions about the course, blended learning, payment options or CIPD membership, our team will be happy to help.

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• Adult learning support and guidance

  Starting something new can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. From careers guidance to mental health and wellbeing, we’re here to support you before you apply and throughout your time with us.

  Visit our adult support page