Level 7 - is it worth it?

Hi all I have been level 5 qualified now for 4 years, only been in HR for 5 1/2 as I came in later in life Anyway, I would be really keen to hear from anyone with their views on whether the Level 7 would be worth doing ? I am currently 53 but there “may” be a chance of progressing to Head of HR within 2-3 years I guess it’s about me personally and if, at this stage of life, I want it However, I would love to hear your thoughts too Thank you

Parents
  • I'm currently doing the Level 7, combined with a Masters. Personally I am finding it useful and I'm enjoying the learning. It is a step up from the Level 5 in terms of covering theory and going in-depth so I have gained new knowledge. I am doing it as an Apprenticeship so funding isn't an issue. Finding the time can be.

    Overall I am glad I'm doing it though. I'm not sure how useful it will be career-wise but I feel more confident having the background to current HR practice. I think having solid experience is the most important thing for Head of HR progression but some employers do like to see that backed up with a qualification. I'm doing it because I like learning rather than with any specific career goal.
Reply
  • I'm currently doing the Level 7, combined with a Masters. Personally I am finding it useful and I'm enjoying the learning. It is a step up from the Level 5 in terms of covering theory and going in-depth so I have gained new knowledge. I am doing it as an Apprenticeship so funding isn't an issue. Finding the time can be.

    Overall I am glad I'm doing it though. I'm not sure how useful it will be career-wise but I feel more confident having the background to current HR practice. I think having solid experience is the most important thing for Head of HR progression but some employers do like to see that backed up with a qualification. I'm doing it because I like learning rather than with any specific career goal.
Children
  • How are you finding the apprenticeship route Harriet? Its an option I'm considering at the moment.
  • The main advantage is not having to pay for it as it comes from the Levy. Technically I get 20% of my week to work on it but that largely depends on what else is going on at work. The more I can align my assignments with what I am actually working on the better. Overall I'm pleased that i'm doing it though. I did the Level 5 through an apprenticeship too and that helped as I knew roughly what to expect.

  • This is really helpful, thank you everyone - my main concern is, as you state Harriet, the time and whether I can balance a busy week with research, reading and module writing.

    Peter, I will definitely look for one with Employment Law as this is one of my main interests.

    With regards to the work it takes to complete, is it very different from Level 5 ?

    I am also considering the apprenticeship option too but put off by the "end point assessment" and yet another report to write and presentation to deliver

    Thanks again everyone, really helpful
  • I don't think there was so much more to do Level 5 to 7 but I've found that the material is denser so needs more concentration. I do a lot of reading and researching anyway as I have an unquenchably inquiring mind. It helps to give it some focus.

    The End Point Assessment is basically writing up what you've been learning and then talking about it. In my role I do a fair amount of writing things up and talking about them so that didn't feel so hard.

    I don't think you'll regret gaining the extra knowledge and a qualification whichever path you choose. Good luck with it all!