Learning & Development Specialist

This role is open to graduates from all subjects. It can be particularly useful to do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:

• business studies
• communications
• psychology
• education and training
• human resources management

You could also study for a postgraduate qualification accredited by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. Most degree subjects are accepted for entry.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You could take a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Courses include:

• learning and development
• digital skills: teaching and learning
• facilitating learning and development

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
• search for courses

You could apply for a place on an apprenticeship, such as:

• Learning and Development Practitioner Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Learning and Skills Teacher Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship

If you're looking to go into training management, you could do a Learning and Development Consultant Business Partner Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship.

These apprenticeships take a minimum of one year and 6 months to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• apprenticeship levels
• guide to apprenticeships

You could start as an assistant in a human resources, recruitment or training department, and work your way up by taking training and development qualifications on the job.

You can apply directly for jobs. You'll need experience in training or teaching to be successful. Employers will expect you to have an understanding of their industry.

They may also want you to have a qualification in the subject you wish to offer training. For example, a recognised IT qualification to teach IT skills.

You can take professional qualifications in learning and development, either online or at a training centre, approved by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.

Career tips

You'll have an advantage when looking for work if you have experience and qualifications from:

• teaching in schools or further education
• working as a skills assessor

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a training officer from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.