Learner Stories: Sam Boucher

In Short

I had gained exposure to HR in various roles, and had accumulated lots of experience in operational HR, however on scanning job boards realized that to progress into an HR Management or business partnering role I would need my experience to be backed up with a recognized qualification.

Why did you choose DPG?

I chose DPG to do my CIPD Level 5 Programme as there was a lot of information provided prior to enrolling onto the course, the advisors were very helpful without being pushy.

What were your goals at the start of the course?

To learn more about the strategic function of HR and to gain a recognized qualification, begin to apply strategic HR in my workplace through my learning and add value to the organisation and to actually complete the course!!

How did you find the online course?

I was apprehensive at first but there was no need to be. Gary, the personal facilitator is fantastic and is always ready to help. The e-lessons are amazing, and the business district, ZipHR, is a fabulous idea. It gives you the opportunity to put your learning in to practice. I also like the way that the assignments allow you to use your own organisation if you’d prefer, it’s helping me to build a portfolio of information which I can keep and use at work.

What would you say to anyone thinking of starting the program with DPG?

Go for it! You’ll develop both professionally and personally, if your confidence is lacking at the start it certainly won’t be by the end!

What would be your top tips for someone actually starting this course?

Set out to gain ‘in depth knowledge’ rather than a just a qualification. Don’t just learn enough to get through the assignments if you can help it, that’s the best way to learn and grow through the programme. If you’re able to begin to apply what you’re learning within your workplace as soon as you can, it helps so much when you can see your learning ‘in action’.

When the facilitators tell you that there’s no such thing as a silly question, they mean it, so don’t be frightened to ask. Try to set a study timetable right at the beginning, but don’t beat yourself up if life gets in the way and you find you’re unable to keep up with the suggested timeline.