Working and Studying: How can you do both?
Signing up for a professional course or qualification can be game-changing. Here’s how to make it manageable and to truly get the most from your experience.
If you’ve ever thought about taking on a course or qualification while working full-time, you’re not alone. According to a Ciphr survey, 67% of working adults are keen to study alongside their jobs, and 49% believe a qualification would help them land the role they really want.
That said, taking on any extra commitment is exactly that – a commitment. It takes time, headspace and, let’s be honest, there will be days when studying is the last thing you feel like doing.
But if you’re considering something like our ILM Level 5 in Effective Coaching & Mentoring, here’s the good news: it’s designed for people exactly like you: busy, working, and ready to grow.
Whether you’re already in a leadership role or just starting to explore what effective management could look like for you, our programmes fully flex around your job and your responsibilities. We’re here to equip and support you, not add to your to-do list.
So, how could a course work for me?
You’ll need to be a bit organised, stay open to learning, and be willing to carve out space every now and then. The structure of your course will depend on the programme you choose and how you like to work.
For example, we deliver the ILM Level 5 Certificate as a 5-day programme, spread across several weeks. After that, you’ll have time to complete your coaching hours and written assignments. You’ll be supported throughout with a clear structure, expert tutors, and a small, focused group of peers. This setup helps you balance work and study without feeling overwhelmed.
What’s more, we work with you to find the format that fits best. Our team has delivered training to professionals across industries – from Olympic athletes and NHS clinicians to legal teams and fighter pilots. Across the board, participants find the course not only manageable but immediately relevant to their day-to-day roles.
Best of all, our courses are not just about learning academic theory. You’ll practice skills in real time, build confidence, and leave each session with something you can apply the very next day.
How much time will I need?
That really depends on the programme, your schedule, and your study style. If we use the example of the ILM 5 once more, the five in-person days will give you core learning and a safe, supported space to practice new skills. Afterwards, you’ll need to create time for:
- Coaching and/or Mentoring practice (minimum hours 18 hours working with 2 or 3 people – completing coaching and reflective logs, gaining feedback and accessing supervision)
- Completing a reflective journal relating to your growth and development
- A written assignment or Professional discussion reflecting your understanding of coaching and mentoring in the workplace
You will have 6-9 months to complete this work following your tutor days
Most people fit their study into early mornings, evenings, or weekends. Some have support from their workplace to study during the week. However you do it, our team will guide and support you every step of the way. We review draft work, provide feedback and offer online support and guidance.
Tips from people who’ve completed courses with us:
Come with an open mind — and a few ideas about what you’d like to improve or change.
Be curious, and don’t shy away from the deep stuff — real growth can feel a bit uncomfortable, and that’s okay.
You’ll come away with more than a qualification — the personal development is priceless.
Will my employer support my learning?
If your course aligns with your role, there’s a good chance they will.
Some companies fund the full course; others offer study leave or flexible working. It’s worth discussing with your line manager. Many of our participants are supported through internal leadership development programmes. We also regularly run ILM and HPP courses for full teams or departments.
We’re proud to be an ELCAS-approved provider, too. That means we offer funded ILM Level 5 and Level 7 qualifications for serving and former armed forces personnel. If you’re eligible and want to explore your options, our team would be happy to help.
Tips from our coaching experts:
Take your course time as space and time for you – it is for your growth and development.
Get involved and participate in the tutor days in a safe space.
Have fun! Enjoy the course and the process!
One last thought…
While studying and working full-time is a commitment, it’s also one of the best investments you can make in yourself.
Our courses are about more than a certificate. They’re about how you lead, how you communicate, and how you grow. Coaching and mentoring aren’t about having all the answers. It’s about listening better, asking powerful questions, and helping others succeed. That’s a skillset worth building, no matter what sector you’re in.
If you’re curious about how it could work for you or your team, we’re happy to talk it through. Drop us a message, or get in touch directly with our experts, Sally Strazzanti or Nathan Abbott, for an informal conversation.
At Pro-Noctis, we specialise in high-impact coaching and mentoring. With a 100% pass rate and a team of dedicated tutors, we tailor every course to meet our learners’ real-world needs.
