Safeguarding

Key Facts

People Professional Apprenticeship - Level 5

This apprenticeship will help you gain a deeper understanding of the professional behaviours that lead to organisational success. Learn how to manage relationships, foster talent, guide strategic planning and reward performance. This qualification is perfect for Human Resources (HR) professionals who enjoy developing and managing people. You will expand your knowledge of HR with a combination of core units and specialist areas – helping you focus on what matters most to you. Apprentices will study the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, which is a mid-level qualification for a career in HR.

This flexible apprenticeship is delivered in partnership with Mindful Education, and combines online learning with regular sessions with a college tutor, referred to as Online and On Campus.

Start dates are available throughout the year.

  • Entry Requirements


    You must be in suitable employment to do an apprenticeship. Ideally an apprentice will also have Maths and English at grade C/4 and above.

    Note that an apprentice cannot sit their end point assessment without a level 2 qualification gained in Maths and English.

  • Course Content


    What will I learn? The knowledge component of the apprenticeship will be delivered through the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management. This qualification provides a strong foundation to give people professionals the confidence and capabilities to guide their decision-making, actions, and behaviours.

    Units of study To complete the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, apprentices will need to complete three core units, three specialist units and the choice of 1 optional unit: Core units:

    • Organisational performance and culture in practice
    • Evidence-based practice
    • Professional behaviours and valuing people

    Specialist units:

    • Employment relationship management
    • Talent management and workforce planning
    • Reward for performance and contribution

    Optional units can be discussed with your tutor.

  • Progression Next Steps


    When you complete the Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, you'll be awarded CIPD Associate Membership, and the designation "Assoc CIPD" after your name. This establishes your credibility as a professional, raises your profile and opens doors to progression.

  • Additional Information


    Click on the Apply link on this page to start the application process if you are in or have secured suitable employment for the Apprenticeship.

    For further guidance and information if you are not currently employed in a suitable role please have a look at Apprenticeship FAQs

    If you are an employer and interested in any of our Apprenticeships for your staff, please email our dedicated Apprenticeship team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Course Structure


    We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver this apprenticeship through our Online and On Campus model. Apprentices study online materials during allotted time at work, and also attend regular sessions with a college tutor.

    Online lessons can be accessed at any time, using a mobile, tablet or desktop - meaning apprentices can fit their study around work commitments, minimising disruption in the workplace. Each lesson lasts around 45 minutes and is accompanied by animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Exercises, interactive case studies and analytical tools help to enhance the learning experience further.

    On campus, apprentices benefit from regular classes with an experienced college tutor, either in-person or virtually. A combination of tutor-led work, group exercises and discussion encourages apprentices to apply theory to real-life workplace situations.

    This modern, flexible approach to apprenticeship training empowers learners, minimises disruption to employers, and delivers tangible results in the workplace.

  • Assessment Details


    Apprentices must pass the end-point assessment to achieve the apprenticeship certificate. The end-point assessment for the People Professional Apprenticeship includes a consultative project and a professional discussion.

    The CIPD qualification is mandatory for this apprenticeship. To gain the CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, apprentices will need to complete a CIPD assessment at the end of each unit of study.