You may wish to consider these courses, however please note they are not funded by NHS Dorset (with the exception of the QSIR Agile course).

Agile – available as a free course.

Agile is a family of development methodologies where requirements and solutions are developed iteratively and incrementally throughout the project lifecycle. Agile methods integrate planning with execution, allowing an organisation to create a working mindset that helps a team respond effectively to these changing requirements.

Agile does not prescribe one particular way of working, rather it provides a framework which describes a collection of tools, structure, culture and discipline to enable a project or programme to embrace changes in requirements.

The agile or iterative project promotes collaborative working, especially with the customer. This involves the customer being embedded within the team, providing the team with constant and regular feedback on deliverables and functionality of the end product.

The best agile approaches are very disciplined and can, and should, be integrated into corporate procedures such as governance

An agile project’s defining characteristic is that it produces and delivers work in short bursts (or sprints) of anything up to a few weeks. These are repeated to refine the working deliverable until it meets the client’s requirements.

What is the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ)?

The APM PFQ (SCQF Level 6) is a multiple-choice examination. It offers a fundamental awareness of project management terminology, giving you the knowledge to make a positive contribution to any project.

Who is it for?

This qualification is for those wanting a broad understanding of the principles of the profession. You do not need any prior knowledge or experience for this qualification.

What is the APM Project Management Qualification (PMQ)?

The APM PMQ (SCQF Level 7) is a knowledge-based qualification. It enables you to demonstrate knowledge of all elements of project management. You will be able to demonstrate an understanding of how these elements interact and how your project fits into your strategic and commercial environment.

Who is this qualification for?

This qualification is for those wanting to participate in projects of all sizes. You will typically have some pre-existing project management knowledge. It is the ideal next step for anyone holding the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification.

The Professional Qualification (SCQF Level 9) assesses your capability in delivering professional projects and is the most comprehensive assessment of professional project management capability. The qualification covers core competencies required across all areas of project management.

Who is this qualification for?

The APM Project Management Professional Qualification is aimed at any project professional either:

  • working in project management and looking to take the next step in their career
  • holding the APM Project Management Qualification, or equivalent
  • looking to become a Full Member of APM (MAPM)
  • looking to achieve the Chartered project Professional (ChPP) standard via route 1

What is change management?

A change is the project, initiative or solution being introduced in the organisation to improve the way work gets done, solve a problem, or take advantage of an opportunity. Nearly any project, initiative or solution that improves an organisation will affect how employees do their day-to-day work.

Change management – the people side of change

Change management is the application of a structured process and set of tools for leading the people side of change to achieve a desired outcome. We apply change management by helping individuals impacted by a change make the successful personal transitions that enable them to engage, adopt and use a change.

Learn more about change management

Lean Six Sigma improves business processes by removing waste and reducing defects or mistakes. Using proven Japanese inspired techniques to manufacture products and services which are better aligned to customer needs, Lean Six Sigma can help any business produce better work, improve profitability and reduce costs.

PRINCE2® is a process-based method for effective project management and will give you the fundamental skills you need to become a successful project manager. It stands for PRojects IN Controlled Environments, and is used and recognised worldwide.

PRINCE2® is completely scalable, and the most recent update to the framework means it can be easily tailored to any project you undertake.

NHS England Fundamentals (Foundation) Quality, service improvement and redesign (QSIR) is a one-day programme carried out face-to-face, offering participants an introduction to a range of tried and tested service improvement tools and approaches that give them the confidence and skills to start on their improvement journey.

Further information