Meet Oluwa Adedeji, who achieved her CIPD Level 3 qualification thanks to our flexible interest-free payment plans! As a self-funder, Oluwa chose Reed Business School for her CIPD Foundation Certificate because she was able to spread the cost of her course over 12 months. Being able to pay in instalments helped Oluwa to budget for her qualification while building her dream career in HR.
Having enjoyed her Level 3 learning experience with us, Oluwa is now studying for her CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, and is once again benefitting from a first-class HR learning experience without breaking the bank!
Here we ask Oluwa her views on the course and why becoming CIPD qualified is important to her professional future.
What is your career experience in HR?
My HR career started four months ago when I applied for the role of HR Administrator at Great Western Hospital in Swindon. Before then I held various administrative and customer service positions in other organisations.
I always wanted to move into HR and my experience in administration was a good foundation. I was six months into my CIPD course when I realised I could start applying for HR roles before I was fully qualified as I could add working towards my qualification on my CV. This encouraged me to actively look for HR admin roles and I successfully applied for the job as an HR Administrator at the hospital.
How did you choose Reed Business School for your CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice?
After I found out that the CIPD is the main body for HR accreditation courses, I explored different learning centres online. Reed Business School stood out because of the beautiful reviews, but also because it allowed me to spread out my payments over a period. This was really useful for me as a self-funder.
Which studying route did you choose for your qualification?
The course I studied was fully online so allowed me to self-pace. I liked the flexibility of self-learning so I could pick up my studies on the VLE after work or use my weekends and utilise annual leave. It was challenging as I was also working full time but having a goal motivated me to use every leisure opportunity I had for studying. My qualification took ten months and I finished all my assessments in December 2024.
How did you work with your tutor Felicity Edmead and was the support helpful?
Felicity was lovely and created a welcoming environment, so I was not hesitant to speak to her or send emails. She was always very helpful when I needed guidance. I am an organised person and Felicity helped me with the course plan so I could map out a timetable for the units. I understand the course is self-paced, but we can’t be here forever! Having a plan helped me to breakdown my assessments and study times. My time with Felicity was very useful and all the advice she provided was constructive.
What did you think of the resources we provide?
There are so many resources on the VLE - videos, podcasts, fact sheets and everything was so helpful.
I particularly enjoyed the podcasts - wearing your headphones and sitting on the couch and just listening. It wasn’t just entertaining but educational and inspiring – doing two things at the same time, relaxing but also learning!
The videos provided visual alternatives when I needed them and then I had the study guides, the fact sheets and of course the CIPD website. Everything was very informative.
Have you progressed your career by achieving your CIPD?
I haven’t been promoted yet as I haven’t been in the job for very long but I have been getting wonderful reviews and feedback. My probationary review was fantastic and I have been given more responsibility to handle new tasks outside of my job description. I also requested to shadow some senior level cases to help me learn and the team has been very supportive. I am hopeful there will be career progression opportunities in the future.
What new skills and knowledge have you developed to support your role and your future career?
I am confident the qualification has improved my work by providing a comprehensive and robust understanding of key HR practices and core HR concepts. I have gained in confidence and have more knowledge of employment law. The qualification has enhanced my credibility in the field as well.
I have gained in confidence and have more knowledge of employment law. The qualification has enhanced my credibility in the field as well.
Why do you think it is important to be CIPD qualified in HR?
Being CIPD qualified is important because it signifies a recognised standard of excellence in HR and demonstrates a commitment to professional development. It also equips HR professionals with up-to-date knowledge and skills to navigate complex employment issues, making them valuable assets to any business.
What are your ultimate career aims?
I have already enrolled on my CIPD Level 5 with Reed Business School and have just had my first onboarding session with my tutor Lucy Ducoin. I want to study to the level of being Chartered, which tells you I’m coming back for my Level 7 Advanced Diploma! My aim is to work hard and increase my knowledge to progress my career in HR to the top.
What has been your experience of studying with us?
It’s been very positive – the flexibility and the structure of the learning has suited me along with having the support of a tutor. The highlight for me was the fact that I could pay in instalments without worrying about how I am going to pay for my course in full. It even helped me to structure my finances every month, so I know what is coming in and is what is going out which is helpful.
Would you recommend Reed Business School?
Yes 100% - Reed Business School is the right place to be for your CIPD. Aside from the fact there is a wonderful structure in place to help you learn, everyone is very friendly and they have amazing customer service. All you need to do is to speak to one of the sales representatives and they will answer all your questions.