CIPD Level 3 - Foundation Certificate In People Practice (Daytime Delivery)

Successful completion of the programme will mean you are awarded the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice, which will entitle you to CIPD foundation member status. By studying with us at Level 3, you will develop a comprehensive foundation knowledge of people practice.

“The Level 3 programme has given me a much clearer understanding in recruitment and selection, which I’m now applying by supporting interviews and shortlisting. I feel more confident when reviewing applications or advising managers on selection methods. In the area of performance management, I’ve been able to apply motivation and reward concepts during return-to-work interviews and while helping managers understand how to better support team members. I’m also starting to see how these concepts link with employee engagement and retention, which has helped me contribute more meaningfully during HR planning discussions.” Level 3 Learner feedback (2025)

Whether you’re starting out in your HR career or already working within a support level role, the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice will provide you with a solid foundation of all areas of HR and develop the essential skills and confidence you need to progress your career further. It is suited to individuals who are:

• looking to get into HR, or progress into a new HR role
• working at a support level, e.g. HR Administrator
• a non-HR manager with people management or HR responsibility
• looking to prove your credibility and become a CIPD professional member – successful completion of this qualification automatically leads to Foundation membership of the CIPD, the first level of professional membership

This programme will build your understanding of how effective people practice contributes to the success of organisational performance. You will apply your knowledge to people management issues within a range of organisational contexts, to develop your skills and confidence.

There are two options for study, across daytime and evening learning. Typical college attendance would be 1.00pm – 4.15pm on Thursdays, or 5.45pm – 9.00pm on Thursdays. Both are delivered in the University Centre, here at Blackburn College. For more information, please contact our specialist team on 01254 29 25 00 or email business@blackburn.ac.uk

There are two entry dates every year, either in September or February.

Fees

The course fees are £1,295.00 per person. In addition, you will be required to pay an annual membership fee direct to the CIPD. 

 CIPD Membership Fees & Assessment Costs | CIPD

Please note: You must remain in membership throughout all the time that you are both on the course and waiting for your certificate to be awarded.

What will I study?

To gain your CIPD Foundation Certificate you must complete the following units:

3CO01 Business. culture and change in context

This unit helps you understand how organisations operate within a wider business, social and economic environment. You will explore the key external factors that influence organisational decisions and examine how and why organisations set goals. The unit introduces workplace culture, showing how everyday behaviours shape the way organisations function and perform.

3CO02 Principles of analytics

This unit introduces the fundamentals of how data is used to inform decisions in the workplace. You will explore different types of data, measures and outcomes, and how these support effective decision making. The unit also develops your confidence in interpreting basic financial information using common calculations and critical thinking skills. You will examine the concept of organisational value, considering how organisations create value for customers and stakeholders.

3CO03 Core behaviours for people professionals

This unit focuses on the professional behaviours that underpin effective people practice. The unit encourages you to evaluate ethical behaviour in the context of your role, including compliance with relevant regulation and employment law. You will develop positive ways of working, learning how to contribute ideas, challenge issues constructively and work inclusively with others. The unit also highlights the importance of reflective practice as a tool to continuously develop your professional knowledge, skills and experience.

3CO04 Essentials of people practice

This unit provides a practical introduction to core people practice activities across the employee lifecycle. You will develop skills in recruitment, selection and appointment, exploring different methods and their effectiveness in attracting and selecting candidates. The unit covers preparing job-related documentation, shortlisting applicants and participating in selection interviews, including appropriate follow-up actions. You will also gain an understanding of key employment legislation and organisational practices, particularly in relation to diversity, inclusion and employee relationships. Finally, the unit introduces learning and development, and reward, exploring their role in supporting individual and organisational performance.

There are no formal entry requirements but you will need to submit an application form for acceptance onto this course explaining your motivation for studying this qualification.

Each of the 4 modules is assessed via the submission of written assignments. There are currently no examinations at Level 3

Please complete our enquiry form and a member of the team will get back to you.

For more information about this course, contact our specialist team on 01254 29 25 00 or email business@blackburn.ac.uk