People Professional Apprenticeship, Level 5

Is this course for me?

This role could be called an HR Consultant or an HR Business Partner in different organisations. Individuals in this role will use their HR expertise to provide and lead the delivery of HR solutions to business challenges, together with tailored advice to the business in a number of HR areas, typically to mid-level and senior managers. They could be in a generalist role, where they provide support across a range of HR areas – likely to be the Core HR option or a specialist role, where they focus on and have in-depth expertise in a specific area of HR – likely to be Resourcing, Total Reward, Organisation Development, or HR Operations. Whichever of these is chosen, they will have a good grounding across the whole range of HR disciplines, as this is contained in both of the qualification options included in this standard. They will often be required to make decisions and recommendations on what the business can or should do in a specific situation. They will be influencing managers to change their thinking as well as bringing best practices into the organisation. They are also likely to lead the people-related elements of business or HR projects. Whatever their role, they will need to link the work they do to the context and priorities of the business. In a larger organisation, they may be one of a team supporting the business, and they may also have responsibility for managing people.

Study Overview

Knowledge & Skills: The People Professional will need to build a good understanding across all HR disciplines, HR legislation, and an excellent working knowledge of the organisation’s HR policies and procedures. They will develop a sound understanding of HR in their sector and any unique features as well as be up to date with best practice and emerging thinking and able to use this in their dealings with the business. 

The consultant will also learn and develop the following knowledge and skills:

• Business Understanding
• Understanding of HR Functions
• Knowledge of HR management systems
• HR consultancy
• Providing support and advice
• Contribute to business change and capability
• People development
• Relationship Management

Progression and Employment Opportunities

Completing this standard enables the apprentice to apply to become an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. Chartered Membership can be achieved through further qualifications or experience-based assessment.