Elise Cotton IRRV Level 3 Certificate. January 2024 Cohort

An opportunity arose for me to cover a Team Leader role within my department, so it felt like the right time to undertake IRRV studies. I hadn’t been a student for quite some time, so I was nervous about finding the time to study in between working and having a young family, so the flexibility of distance learning really appealed to me.

I found the platform really easy to navigate and each module was clearly broken down into manageable pieces. Even though it was distance learning, I never felt isolated or unable to ask for help, there are regular live sessions, and the tutors are available for contact should you have any questions.

The pre-exam and monthly live sessions were the most informative as they kept you on the right track and gave you an opportunity to ask questions and learn from other students. There was never any pressure to contribute, if you preferred you could attend just to listen and take notes. The sessions were also recorded if you were unable to join them live.

Distance learning in particular meant I could study at a time and place that suited me, even being able to take my exams at my place of work made such a huge difference to those pre-exam nerves!

The studies have been a real confidence boost and the process pushed me out of my comfort zone so I feel better prepared in professional situations. I believe more in my ability and have built up new knowledge and skills.

If you are in a position where you are undecided about IRRV studies, I would say if you can, then go for it. I was undecided about studying for years but I am so glad I did it. The day the final results came out was so special, it felt so good to tell colleagues, family and friends that I had passed!