Busec Ltd

Nicola started studying the new Foundation (Level 3) Certificate as one of our first cohort when the programme was launched. 

Why did you choose the Mixed Mode method of study?

My role is demanding and often reactive and I would not have found it easy to commit to a course that required one evening per week at college, particularly as I'm often travelling with work. The mixed mode of study allowed me to work in my own time and around my other work/life commitments. The other huge advantage for me was that the assessments were based on recognition for work that I was completing as part of my role, so I felt a strong connection with the course which kept me highly motivated. This gave me a truer insight and depth into my current role and clearly linked with my CPD and work performance. I would recommend this mode of study it to anyone who wants to gain a qualification and maintain a busy lifestyle. It also was an 'easier sell' to my employer, as it did not distract me from my daily tasks at work. We now work together on recommendations from My HR Map as part of my on-going CPD.

What was your overall goal?

I wanted to gain an overall understanding of the HR Generalist role and allow my study to 'catch up' with my work experience. I wanted to show that I was competent in my role to CIPD standard. It was really great to read the theory and think 'so that's why we do it that way', as well as learning new approaches, which have helped me contribute to continuous improvement within my company.

How did you find the programme fitted in with your work/life commitments?

It was great to be able to set aside blocks of time to really focus on the assignments and reading the supporting materials and even better to be able to do this from home. Often, I would spend a Sunday getting to grips with the assessment and being able to read some, walk away to digest my learning, then return to it ready to put my thoughts on paper. This worked for me much better than rushing to a college course after work once per week, getting home late in the evening and then having to pick up where I left off next time I had some work to complete. I think it's a progressive mode of study and really values the individual's time, especially with support like my tutor coming to observe me at work. I even managed to fit the qualification around planning my wedding!

What timescale did you complete in and how much time did you devote to the studying?

I completed the DHRP in six months and probably devoted about half a day per week to studying, although I typically approached the work in chunks. For example, I might set aside a quiet weekend to complete assignments and what really worked for me was that there were no strict deadlines, meaning I could take my time and gain a thorough understanding of the modules. The course was highly valuable for me in this way.

How did you find the support you received from Busec?

Excellent support from Busec made the process really clear and simple. It was valuable to have the first meeting with my peers and to meet the tutors and form that initial relationship. Throughout the course I had regular calls and constructive feedback from my tutor, which helped me fine-tune my assignments and take my study to a deeper level. I've recommended to colleagues who have previously struggled with the full qualificaiton to consider using this method of study with Busec as I think it really supports the learner as well as recognising the work we do every day.