If you’re thinking about becoming a qualified ILM Level 5 coach, you’re probably already someone who enjoys supporting others and helping them grow. As I have shared in previous blogs, coaching has been the biggest ‘game changer’ in my career and the qualification remains one of the most rewarding journeys I have taken, both professionally and personally.
Sian and I have been running the ILM 5 Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring for many years now and one of the things that is important to us is that we make it practical. We don’t just talk about coaching—we actually do it!
As a delegate on one of our programmes, you’ll learn proven coaching models and techniques, but more importantly, you’ll practice using them in real conversations. That’s where the confidence starts to build and by the time you finish, you’re not just “aware” of coaching techniques—you’re using them naturally.
The feedback we consistently get from participants is: “I wish I’d learned this years ago.” The shift from telling people what to do, to asking the right questions and really listening, is powerful. Whether your intention is to use this as a freelance professional coach or as part of your leadership approach, when you start to see people realise their potential, take more ownership, and grow in confidence—it’s incredibly satisfying and rewarding
Another big change I see in the participants on our programmes is the shift in how they communicate. You become much more aware of how you listen, how you respond, and how you create space for others to think. It’s not just useful at work either—these skills tend to spill over into everyday life as well!
From a career point of view, the ILM Level 5 qualification carries real weight. It shows that you’ve put in the time to develop as a coach, that you’ve been assessed, and that you can apply what you’ve learned. Whether you’re looking to progress in your current role or move into a more coaching-focused position, it’s a strong asset to have.
But if I’m honest, one of the most valuable parts of the journey is what it does for you personally. Throughout the course, you’ll reflect on your own experiences, your approach, and even your assumptions. That self-awareness is often what makes the biggest difference—not just in how you coach others, but in how you show up day to day.
If you’re curious about coaching and want to get better at developing people and supporting others to grow, this qualification will give you the tools, the structure, and the support to do exactly that. From my point of view there is nothing better than seeing that moment when it all clicks for someone and being a coach, I have the privilege of experiencing that all the time.
I can hand on heart say that for me, it’s not just a qualification. It’s a skillset you’ll use for the rest of your career (and life!)
Our next programme will start in November 2026. For more details, testimonials and dates please click on the information attached.
If you would like to have a chat about if this is the right qualification for you, I would be more than happy to arrange that. Email me at debs@debshirstcoaching.co.uk