Do I go onto my L5 or have a break?

Couldn't agree more Nicola.
When I was first starting our trying to get into HR without any experience was tough. Then it changed that you wouldn't be considered without a CIPD qualification. When I finally managed to get a job in HR there were several people working for the organisation who didn't have their CIPD qualifications and had progressed to HRBP level without it. The experience they had was what counted. There were also HRMs who didn't want to progress or study.

Hi Kayleigh,
If you can find an entry level position your employer might pick up the costs.
My last 2 employers have required us to have it and therefore picked up the cost of the training and also our CIPD membership.
Are you able to consider an apprenticeship?
Lisa

I had a long break between studying as for me I took the opportunity when I could obtain funding from my employer as no way I could afford to self-fund past Level 3 (or what was known as the Certificate in Personnel practice at the time).
I took my Level 3 before I was even working in HR to help me obtain my 1st role. I have recently finished Level 5, but after studying Levels 3,4 and 5 over the last nearly 20 years, I just cant face any more especially as I really don't want to do exams (Level 7) or have enough experience yet to go via the assessment route. I am currently a HR Advisor, but within my organisation all my colleagues further 'up' are Level 7 (or Chartered Status) qualified.
My Level 5 Certificate (rather than Diploma) took 12 months.

Some really good points here, I would personally say it depends on the real life work experience you are getting. I studied my L3, then took a break from studying, and then a few years later I went straight to my L7...but that was only appropriate because of the development I was getting at work. I would say work experience should be prioritised over qualifications where possible, otherwise you have no reference point. When I was studying my L7 there was a lot of students who had gone straight from their undergrad onto the Masters course with no work experience...and it really made a difference in the lectures.

Sorry might have slightly gone off point there but hope that helps!

Hi Caitlin

I would be guided by your long term aspirations, target sector and ideal role and then review vacancies, JD &PS for such roles, within your chosen target to see what is required. I often do this to review skills gaps and use this method to determine my next course to ensure my knowledge and learning is relevant and will serve a specific purpose.

Roles are often advertised stating 'CIPD level XX, or equivalent experience' which is interesting as 'relevant experience' is not a measurable in the true sense. But again, I would undertake some field research. I target the NHS for example, and there it is not unusual for senior HR professionals to not have their CIPD Level 7, but will have 20 years+ experience. Given the conditions that are sector specific, often experience in the NHS, or a unionised/ partnership working environment could be weighted more than even an MA SHRM. As, much of the interpretation of law, and the application of HR is very much tailored to your own working environment or sector.

Dependent on your target sector, graduate apprenticeship schemes are also another option that may be something that you could consider, which may offer the best of both worlds as well as sponsorship.

If you do take a break, I would say, keep an eye on the labour market and the changing requirements so that you can jump back onboard and are not left behind, should things change. Congratulations on achieving your L3. Good luck with your fact finding and your decision. You'll have to come back and update us all. Carolina

I went straight into L5 from completing L3. However, I am fortunate that my employer is paying for my qualification and I get a day release from work to study. The qualification is through an online provider, so I can also study & work on my assignment around my other work/personal commitments. I am in a HR role at the moment but for me this course is giving me the background knowledge and confidence to a certain extent that goes alongside professional experience. I think it needs to be whatever works for you in your current circumstances.

"I am fortunate that my employer is paying for my qualification"

Yes, that helps.

Who pays for your CIPD costs?

...although you should be aware of any 'clawback' clause, which often surfaces in discussions here.

Great to see so many first-time contributors. You are all very welcome :)

Hi Caitlin
I am just trying to write my first assignment for the L5 and its not easy by any means. I am struggling with full time work and doing this in my spare time and it takes up every spare minute. Only you will know if you need a break but I had 3 years in between and find being disciplined to study really challenging. Good luck in whatever you decide - its totally within your capability if you want it.