Can you really study AND work at the same time?

With over a quarter of first degree students now receiving a first (16/17 HESA data), competition in the work place is becoming increasingly competitive.

Whilst many people continue their education at University, it’s also important to remember the value of additional learning whilst on the job.  With a whole variety of part time and distance learning courses available, the benefits of working and learning should not be overlooked.

Whether you are new to the workplace, or have been working for some time, the value in additional learning is vast. Not only do you gain the obvious benefits in new skills, the other ‘less material’ benefits are also great. The additional confidence in doing something new, meeting new people, and the sense of achievement are all positives that will come from taking on a new challenge.

The opportunity for role progression, salary increases, and improved career prospects are also a huge benefit. You can also choose how to study to suit your lifestyle, either via a fixed course with set lectures, or via distance learning, ideal if you have other family / lifestyle commitments.

 

At Critical Project Resourcing, we offer our staff the chance to carry on learning whilst working. Below Fiona, Jean, Sophie and Charlotte have shared their experiences with REC and AAT courses that they have completed.

“I think the ability to take on new challenges also shows to present and future employers that you have a positive, hardworking attitude.

I have studied using both traditional class room teaching and distance learning whilst at my current job, and found the process had a hugely positive impact.  Although at times it can be difficult to fit everything in, the impact of the results achieved are felt long after the course has finished.

I think the need to learn never really leaves us and helps keep us interested in what we do, both personally and professionally.”

“I completed the Level 3 Certificate in Recruitment Practice and found it incredibly enjoyable. Rather than being focused purely on sales all the time it was refreshing to give myself knowledge about the industry which has allowed me to become a more rounded recruiter. I would recommend it for anyone who wants to expand their mind in the area but also feel like you’re giving something back to yourself on the intellectual front at the same time.”

 

“I also completed the Level 3 Certificate in Recruitment Practice in 2016. The course is designed for 360 degree recruiters and allowed me to work on various professional skills needed for recruitment such as attracting candidates, matching candidates to the right role and client relationship.

There were 6 different topics for my exam which ensured I had a well-rounded experience from the course:

1. Understanding sales for recruitment
2. Understanding legal and ethical requirements in recruitment
3. Understanding relationship management in recruitment
4. Understanding recruitment operations
5. Understanding the recruitment market
6. Understanding the principles of assessing people

“As well as completing the Level 3 Certificate in Recruitment Practice, I’ve also started my Diploma in Recruitment Management. I am currently part qualified as I’ve completed 5 out of the 8 modules. I would personally recommend the REC courses to anyone interested in Recruitment. It allows you to delve a little deeper into the Recruitment and truly enhances your understanding of the sector.”

We currently have an opening for a trainee recruitment consultant on our Local Authority team. As well as working with a great team, we also offer the opportunity to obtain industry qualifications once you have completed the trainee programme. Currently we offer the Certificate in Recruitment Practice (CertRP) and Diploma in Recruitment Management (DipRM). These are fully funded by the company for those who wish to study them – a real unique opportunity! If this is of interest, please read the full job specification here.

We hope that you have enjoyed reading this blog, and as always please feel free to contact us on 01732 455300 if you would like to discuss anything.