Human Resource Management students at Solihull College & University Centre are benefiting from exceptional teaching and learning delivered through the College’s own Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD) Platinum Centre.
Alexis Olvera began her CIPD journey on the Level 3 CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice, studying on an evening course 3 years ago. After several years working in finance, a change in career opened the door to this opportunity and became the next step in her professional development.
She chose the evening course because the classroom experience appealed to her, especially after trying other learning methods. Alexis valued the community feel and the chance to learn alongside peers in similar roles across different organisations. This support, along with the skills and knowledge she gained, motivated her to continue her studies after completing Level 3. The course gave her a strong foundation, especially in academic writing, which prepared her well for the CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management (Level 5).
Alexis is grateful for the development opportunities and support she has received from her employer Piovan UK and after successfully graduating from level 5, Alexis was determined to progress even further. In September, she began the postgraduate-level CIPD Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management (Level 7). She credits the quality of teaching and learning as a crucial part of her success, commenting: “The teachers are so knowledgeable and supportive and helped me gain confidence in my role. Nicky always has time for students and has helped me several times with advice on particularly difficult cases at work. It has been hard and challenging, but I’ve really enjoyed it and got so much out of it both personally and professionally.”
So impressed with the resources, facilities and experience at the College, Alexis is already seeking out her next learning opportunities when she graduates in June.
The College is also proud to have awarded Platinum Centre Status by the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development for the second year in a row. This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of the CIPD team, who are committed to delivering exceptional teaching, learning, and student experience.
CIPD Lecturer and Course Coordinator, Nicky Small, comments: “Our centre has demonstrated consistent excellence across CIPD’s performance criteria. I am proud that we have achieved recognition for maintaining the high standards in professional education delivery and assessment.”
Vice Principal for Quality and Curriculum, Linda McLaughlin, added: “Achieving Platinum Status for the second year running is an outstanding accomplishment. It is a real credit to the CIPD team and reflects the consistently high standards, professionalism, and commitment to quality across all aspects of the provision.”
