Human Resources Student Stories:
CIPD Student Stories: Laura Nicklin | Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice

Laura was ready to make a career change and had always been interested in the world of HR. Find out how she is getting on with the Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice in her student story.

My journey with ICS Learn started in 2022, I was on Maternity Leave from my then job as an insurance advisor, something I had done for years but no longer enjoyed. For a long time, I had an interest in the world of HR but didn’t really know where to start or have the confidence to try and find out but the thought of returning back to the same job after my Maternity Leave ended filled me with dread.

I started to research HR courses online and enquired with a variety of providers and spent hours reading reviews and discussions on online forums before I took the plunge and chose a provider. I had decided that online learning, going at my own pace would work best for me and my hectic schedule with a new born baby and an energetic 4 year old. I was unable to commit to specific days / times at this stage so an in-person classroom style would not have worked for me although I liked the idea of having the support of tutors and fellow learners around me to keep me motivated throughout the journey.

Taking all of this into account I decided to go with ICS Learn. I got stuck straight in and was able to take an 'as and when' approach to my learning amongst juggling home life.

Once stuck in to my course with my Maternity Leave coming to an end I started to have a look online for related job roles, in all honesty I never imagined I would land my perfect role until qualified and I had already prepared myself for potentially being out of work for a short period between my leave ending and completing my course, however, I was successful in my application for a Recruitment Coordinator role at a well known high street retailer, Ryman Stationery.

I started straight away and got stuck in with learning my new role, which meant I had to take some time away from the course whilst I found my feet and got into a new routine.

The flexibility of learning with ICS Learn allowed me to work at my own pace and the little pressure to meet set deadlines allowed me to enjoy the first few months in my new role.

I soon picked back up once things settled down and found the things I had learnt on the job supported my course and gave me a greater understanding of my assignments.

I have only positive things to say about ICS learn from course content, tutor support, student services and assessment feedback - it has all been great!

In the future I plan to complete my Level 5 and will have no hesitation in using ICS Learn as my provider, I have already recommended ICS Learn to a colleague who is now studying his Level 5 with them and has equally great things to say.

If Laura's story has inspired you, reach out to one of our expert advisors and download a course guide below.