CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice - Online and Virtual Classroom

L3 Level 3
Part Time
18 September 2026 — 31 October 2027
Online

About this course

The CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice is ideal for anyone either embarking on a career in people practice, or for those already in a support role and looking to take the next step on the ladder. 

The course is completed over 8–12 months through a structured blend of self-study on the Mindful Education Learning Platform and fortnightly group tutorials with your Course Tutor, held on Friday mornings from 9:30am to 11:30am (term time only) via Microsoft Teams. 

This qualification is also available through our Apprenticeship Pathway, offering learners the opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience alongside their CIPD studies. 

What you will study

We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver this course through our flexible Online and Virtual Classroom model. 

Online, you will study award-winning video lessons, which are available on demand, and can be viewed from your phone, tablet or computer – meaning you can choose how, when and where you want to study. Lessons last for around 45 minutes and are accompanied by animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Practice questions, downloadable lesson materials and interactive case studies help to enhance the learning experience further and learners should expect to spend around 4-5 hours studying independently online each week. 

Virtual Classroom, you benefit from regular classes with a college tutor – without having to commit to attending multiple evenings each week. Your tutor will review what you have learnt during your online lessons and will be on hand to provide guidance on progress and assessment. Regular discussion with classmates will help to reinforce key points while also providing the additional support and motivation that comes from being part of a group. 

Assessment Method: 
To complete this qualification, you’ll work through a series of unit assignments, each with set submission deadlines.  

These assessments are designed to help you build confidence and competence while developing the core knowledge and behaviours set out in the CIPD Profession Map (Foundation Level). 

You will study 4 units: 

  • 3CO01 – Business Culture and Change in Context 
  • 3CO02 – Principles of Analytics 
  • 3CO03 – Core Behaviours for People Professionals
  • 3CO04 – Essentials of People Practice 

 
Once your assignments are completed, all results are reviewed through the official CIPD Moderation process. Moderation takes place during fixed windows throughout the year, which may extend the time it takes to receive your final confirmation. After your results are approved, digital certification is issued directly by CIPD, typically within a minimum of four-six weeks. 

CIPD Membership: 
To study this qualification, you’ll need an active CIPD Membership for the full duration of the course. Membership fees are not included in your course cost, as they are personal to you and can be maintained beyond your qualification to continue supporting your professional journey. Information on CIPD Membership Fees can be found on the CIPD website.  

We’ll guide you through the membership registration process at enrolment, making it simple to get started. 

Application process: 
After submitting your application, our team will contact you to arrange a remote Microsoft Teams interview. This short meeting with a member of the CIPD team will assess your suitability for the qualification in line with CIPD guidelines and give you the chance to learn more about the course structure. 

Course fees

Course Fee: £1,700.00

Entry requirements

You can apply for this course if you: • Are aged 19 or over • Are not currently in full time education or enrolled on a funded course with CAVC • Can provide evidence of GCSE English (A–C) or an equivalent/higher qualification. If you cannot provide this evidence, you may be asked to complete a short-written task • Are working in, or aspiring to work in, a people practice role that involves supporting, leading, or developing people and practice within an organisation

Important points

  • The College welcomes contact with parents/guardians of students who are under 18.
  • Additional support is available for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.
  • Cardiff and Vale College is committed to inclusion and values diversity. We are determined to promote equality of opportunity and to treat everyone fairly and with respect.
  • Cardiff and Vale College reserves the right to make changes to this course without prior notice.
  • Course fees are subject to change. Your fee will be confirmed prior to enrolment.
  • All courses are accurate at the time of upload or print.
  • Courses can only run if there are sufficient numbers.
  • Please note, if you choose three or more course choices, then you may be referred for a careers appointment first. This does not apply to A Level or GCSE choices.
Key information

Start date

18 September 2026

End date

31 October 2027

Time of day

Day Time

Part Time

2 hours per week

Location

Online
Maps & directions

Course code

CSCIPD3PP03
L3

Qualification

CIPD Certificate in People Practice
Mindful
CIPD Platinum Logo

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What our students say

Career prospects & further study

Successful completion of the L3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice provides you with a springboard into a variety of HR job roles. Many learners go on to study L5 Associate Diploma in People Management following this.