Which Level Is Right For You?
Discover the perfect ILM qualification to match your career goals and experience level
Find Your Recommended Level
Your Recommended Level
ILM Qualifications Overview
Certificate in Leadership and Management
- Understanding Leadership
- Organising and Delegating
- Managing Projects
- Motivating Workers
- Managing Change
- Leading Meetings
Certificate in Leadership and Management
- Being an Effective Leader
- Managing Change
- Developing and Leading Teams
Certificate in Effective Coaching and Mentoring
- Understanding Skills, Principles and Practice of Coaching and Mentoring
- Undertaking Coaching and Mentoring Practice
- Reviewing Own Ability as Coach and Mentor
Executive Coaching and Mentoring
- Understanding Principles at Executive Level
- Undertaking Coaching at Executive Level
- Reflecting on Ability at Executive Level
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | L3 Leadership | L5 Leadership | L5 Coaching | L7 Coaching |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6-12 months | 6-12 months | 4-8 months | 6-12 months |
| Credits / Units | 13 credits minimum (10 assessments) | 3 units | 3 units | 3 units |
| Entry Requirements | None (no formal qualifications needed) | L3 or management experience recommended | None required | L5 Coaching or significant executive coaching experience |
| Assessment Method | Reflective reviews, work-based assignments | 2000-word essays per unit | Practical assignments with supervision | Advanced case studies with supervision |
| Practical Hours | Work-based learning | Work-based learning | 18 hours practical plus 1 hour supervision | 20 hours practical plus 4 hours supervision |
| Apprenticeship Eligible | Yes | Yes | No, commercially sold | No, commercially sold |
| Typical Career Path | Team Leader, Supervisor roles | Manager, Senior Manager, Head of Department | Internal Coach, HR Professional, Mentor | Executive Coach, Leadership Coach, Board Advisor |
| Academic Equivalent | Level 3 | Level 5 | Level 5 | Postgraduate equivalent |
Your Learning Pathway
How do you want to start?
Two ways forward. Pick the one that suits you.
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Tell us your role, level and goals. We will send a tailored route map covering the right qualification, funding options and (if you want it) the apprenticeship route with Coachy included.
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Talk directly with our ILM specialists. We will walk through the levels live, share past learner outcomes and answer any procurement or funding questions.
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