Level 5 Certificate and Diploma in Professional Coaching and Mentoring

New for 2026

Designed for managers and those with significant responsibility for coaching and mentoring, these flexible qualifications build the knowledge and skills needed to coach and mentor effectively in today’s workplace. They are also ideal for individuals who wish to move into a development role or start a career as a freelance coach or mentor.

Who’s it for?

Our new qualifications are designed to meet the evolving needs of learners, employers and training providers with a focus on:

Managers with significant responsibility for coaching and mentoring.

Professionals with additional coaching or mentoring responsibilities seeking additional development or progression.

Individuals who wish to move into a development role or start a career as a freelance coach or mentor.

Learners balancing work and study with flexible routes to achievement.

For providers:

Expand your offer and simplify delivery

Flexible delivery options: classroom, blended, or workplace.

Access to qualification handbook, assignment pack and supporting guidance for smooth onboarding and delivery. 

Flexible assessment format, tailored to your learner's journey and needs.

Future-ready content aligned with employer needs.

For learners:

Build confidence and progress your career

Choose Certificate or Diploma routes to fit your goals.

Flexible assessment approach through real-world experience.

Apply knowledge and skills immediately in your workplace - learn today, coach or mentor tomorrow.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can be supported by your provider for faster progression.

For employers:

Build future leaders who drive results

Develop confident professional coaches and mentors who can motivate, empower, and enable personal transformation.

Supports organisational priorities: wellbeing, problem-solving and professional practice.

Immediate workplace application provides quick return on investment and improves confidence and retention.

Straightforward programmes designed to fit around operational needs.

Future-proof your workforce with inclusive leadership development.

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Download Qualification Documents

Download the handbook for full details on structure, units, and assessment.

Request draft handbook Download Q card

Eligibility for Fast Track approval

Existing ILM centres may be eligible for Fast Track approval for the qualifications listed below.

You may be eligible if you currently deliver one or more pathways within the comparable qualification suite shown.

Comparable qualification(s) currently delivered		Qualification available for Fast Track approval
Level 5 Effective Coaching and Mentoring - 8588 Pathways: -21, -24, -62, -31, -34, -63		Level 5 Professional Coaching and Mentoring - 8688

You can apply for Fast Track approval for up to 12 months from 28 September 2026.

If you believe you meet the eligibility criteria, please complete the Fast Track request form.

Apply for Fast Track approval

Core content included

Principles of Coaching and Mentoring in a professional environment

Coaching or Mentoring Practice in a professional environment

Reviewing to develop own Coaching or Mentoring Practice

Qualification Details

Certificate: GLH: 43 | TQT: 169

Diploma: GLH: 55 | TQT: 372

Assessment: Portfolio | Age: 18+ | No formal entry requirements.

Progression pathways

Clear progression to ILM Level 7 Coaching and Mentoring qualifications and Level 5 Leadership and Management and beyond, supporting lifelong learning and career development.

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