CIPD Learner Stories: Sara Saran

As part of her professional personal development plan, Sara is currently studying Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic Learning and Development.

I’m a Learning & Development Manager with over 14 years of professional experience. I’m a qualified L&D Business Partner, qualified assessor and have completed both a Level 4 IQA and a Level 5 apprenticeship, which was CIPD accessed.

I’m currently undertaking the CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic Learning and Development with DPG as part of my personal development plan in my work, which also consists of heading the L&D department, managing a team of three people and supporting the apprentices.

I chose to study with DPG so that I could develop professionally while in full time work, with the hope of being able to look at different L&D situations more critically.

I'm only at the beginning of my learning journey and I'm already feeling much more confident in my abilities and decisions. Having the theory to back up my ideas which I can then evidence to my employer has really increased my confidence.

I've also already able to easily apply my learnings to my role, and have a much better understanding of our external stakeholders, who play a significant part in the work that I do. 

From one of my assignments in particular, I found myself thinking more strategically regarding the commercial focus of my actions and decisions, which was a big win for me!

When it comes to the course in particular, I’m enjoying the self-directed learning element, the drop-in sessions and the flexibility to work through the modules and assignments at my own pace.

It can be overwhelming at first, thinking about how you're going to balance studying and full time work, however, for me, I've found the best way to manage my workload has been to set an appropriate amount of time aside at the weekends and evenings.

Taking my time when it comes to learning the information, and then doing a good amount of research to back up my written assignments has also been really helpful, breaking studying down into manageable chunks.

I would definitely recommend DPG, as the flexibility of being to learn at your own pace makes studying accessible and manageable.

If I was to pass on one piece of advice it would be to make sure you’re committed to your learning journey, as it’s not something I believe you can rush through.

Upon completion of my qualification, I’m hoping to gain a higher level of expertise within my profession, which will set me up for future success.

If I was to describe my learning journey with DPG in three words so far, it would be dynamic, flexible and approachable.

If you're like Sara and keen to upskill in your current role, gain a 100% online accredited qualification the no-nonsense way!