The different ILM coaching and mentoring courses – which one is best for you?

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Welcome to the world of ILM coaching and mentoring qualifications!

What is the ILM?

The ILM is one of the UK’s leading provider of leadership, coaching and mentoring qualifications. The ILM offers internationally regarded qualifications, working with clients from across all industries. Working through accredited delivery partners like Inspired2Learn, the ILM helps to develop the coaching and mentoring skills of managers, leaders and independent coaches enabling them to improve productivity and wellbeing, which in return helps to drive business performance.

ILM Awards, Certificates and Diplomas

There are three types of ILM qualifications that a person can study for.  These are awards, certificates, and diplomas. The difference between them is the number of guided learning hours, the number of units studied, and the number of assignments completed.

Whilst it will vary by level and topic, in our experience the coaching and mentoring awards typically require 200 hours of learning, certificates 300 hours, and diplomas 450 hours or more.  Learning and study are spread over a year, so they can best fit in with work and home-life requirements.

What are the different levels of ILM qualifications?

The ILM uses the national UK qualification levels to reflect the coaching and mentoring needs, plus differing levels of academic study. 

Level 3 qualifications are aimed at junior coaches and mentors who may also be first line managers. An ILM level 3 qualification roughly equates to an A-level.  Level 3 is for learners who wish to gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to effectively coach or mentor people within an organisational context, and is also an ideal qualification for those who wish to commence a career in coaching or mentoring.

Level 5 qualifications are aimed at coaches and mentors who are middle or senior managers . An ILM level 5 qualification roughly equates to an HND, or second year of an under-graduate degree.  Level 5 provides an excellent foundation for professional coaching in the workplace or as a freelance coach and mentor.

Level 7 qualifications are aimed at senior leaders, including board-level directors and freelance executive coaches. An ILM level 7 qualification equates to a post-graduate certificate or master’s degree.  Level 7 is designed for strategic leaders or coaching/mentoring professionals who wish to develop deeper expertise and credibility in the fields of coaching and mentoring. Professional coaches and mentors can also enhance and accredit their experience and gain a nationally recognised qualification.

It is not necessary to start with level 3 qualifications before progressing to the higher levels.  It is important to ensure that you have the relevant experience, to get the most from the study and learning opportunities.

ILM Coaching and Mentoring

Coaching and Mentoring topics include understanding the skills, principles, and practices of effective coaching, how to undertake effective coaching, and how to review your own ability as a coach and mentor.  Some of the level 7 qualifications focus on those who supervise and develop other coaches and mentors.

The ILM course with inspired2learn can be delivered in a variety of ways, to suit both individuals and organisations. Choose from:

  • Virtual learning, with a wealth of online resources and a personal tutor
  • In house courses for your organisation, bespoke to your needs.

Which ILM course is right for me?

To choose the best course for you, there are three factors to consider:

  • The level; 3, 5 or 7 – who do I want to coach / mentor?
  • The qualification; Award, Certificate or Diploma? How much time do I have and how deep do I want the study and learning to be?
  • The focus; coaching, mentoring or both?

Once you have answered these 3 questions, then Inspire2Learn can offer the right ILM course to meet your needs.  Choose from:

How can inspired2learn help?

With over 20 years of experience in training and development across a wide range of business sectors and organisations of all sizes, inspired2learn can help you achieve your ILM qualifications. We have worked with many companies and organisations to deliver successful coaching and mentoring training, leading to very satisfied clients!

Whether you are an individual looking to develop your personal skills, or an organisation wishing to improve the coaching skills and ability of your staff, please get in touch. We would love to hear from you.

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