Learner Stories: Nehal Shah

Nehal wanted to expand her horizons after switching her career from finance and starting work as an HR professional, so she decided to take on an online CIPD Level 5 Diploma in People Management with us and completed her two-year course in only nine months! 

Below, she details what her experience studying with DPG has been like. 



What made you decide to complete your qualification with DPG?

The chairman of Edwardian Hotels London asked me to move from my role as Financial Controller to HR as a Group HR Manager–Support Services as part of a restructuring of the HR team.

Upon recognising my experience in the company and the transferrable skills I have, I was tasked with rebuilding the HR processes within the company. This is where my love for HR started. Unfortunately, however, I was made redundant last year due to the pandemic and this made it a perfect opportunity to study towards my CIPD with DPG.

Why DPG? When I did my research, they offered the option to study online in a way that fit with my lifestyle. As I was self-funded, they also offered interest-free payment plans that suited my budget.

They made me feel confident as I was moving across from finance to HR by giving me the correct and expert advice. I had personal facilitators throughout this programme and unlimited access to the online DPG Community where you can get support and help from your peers and other professionals. I also love that I can continue to use the DPG Community once I have completed the programme.

How did you find the support from your facilitator? 

Fantastic! A two-year course, which I completed in 9 months says it all. I cannot help but mention Lynne-Clarke Haynes, who was my mentor throughout this programme - her support was outstanding.

How useful was the feedback from your assessors?

The feedback for every paper was detailed which gave more insight on how to improve in the modules that followed. 

How did you use the DPG Community throughout the course of your programme? 

Using the DPG Community increased my confidence as I could relate to all my peers and could have discussions that were valuable to the modules. It was a very good way of sharing and gaining knowledge. Gary Norris, in particular, was amazing and offered great support.

Approximately how much time did you have to put in each week to get it done in 9 months?

I used the target calculator which was provided by DPG and it took me two weeks per module. I would start at 10 am and finish by 5 pm.

What are the highlights/success stories that stand out while studying this course? Any key moments?

Finishing the course in 9 months.

What advice would you give to anyone wishing to study CIPD with DPG?

That's a no-brainer - choose DPG! There are no deadlines on the modules as long you finish the course within the given time frame. It's flexible, the material is excellent, and the systems are user-friendly.

What are your next steps now you have this qualification? Have you secured a new role/promotion?

I started applying for HR roles and have now secured one! I look forward to moving onwards and upwards as an HR professional.

Are you interested in advanced your HR career? Enrol on one of our flexible HR programmes and get started today.