The PIABC Level 3 Certificate in Packaging is recognised as giving an excellent foundation and introduction to the packaging industry.
Our course provides a level of insight and understanding of the packaging industry that adds real and measurable value to careers and businesses. Our blended learning course combines the convenience of being able to study at a time and pace to suit you with support from our tutors when you need it, and regular check-ins to keep you on track.
Why should I undertake this qualification?
Completion of the Certificate in Packaging demonstrates your commitment to your career and to the industry. Delegates who successfully complete the Certificate are equipping themselves for progression within the packaging industry.
Who is the course aimed at?
Learners on the Certificate in Packaging course come from a variety of areas, but generally have twelve months of experience in the sector.
You may be embarking on a technical career within the industry and looking for the training that will provide you with a solid bed of information that you can build on; alternatively, you may be more experienced and working within a supporting role in the business. The course is at a level equivalent to GCE A-levels, and we expect learners to have good basic literacy and numeracy skills.
How can I study the Certificate?
We offer our PIABC Level 3 Certificate in Packaging course in a blended learning format, which allows you to study at a time and pace to suit you and also get support from our expert tutors.
- Online learning: Our dedicated online learning platform contains all the information you need to pass the qualification. Notes are supported by videos that introduce the topics, and there are plenty of opportunities for you to check your learning as you progress through the course.
- Virtual sessions: Each month, you will be able to attend our virtual drop-in session. This is your chance to meet other learners and ask any questions you may have of our tutors. We also run revision sessions to help you prepare for your exams and tutorials dedicated to helping you to prepare your assignment.
How is the course structured?
The Certificate is split into six modules, and at the end of these, you should understand:
- The roles and functions of packaging
- The packaging development process
- Packaging sustainability
- Major packaging materials and formats
- Printing and decoration processes
- Key operations on a packing line
These learning outcomes are assessed through a formal, closed-book examination to test your knowledge and an open-book assignment on a topic set by PIABC on an annual basis.
How is the Certificate course assessed?
The PIABC Level 3 Certificate in Packaging has two assessment methods, and you must achieve both to complete the qualification:
- Formal, closed-book written examination testing the knowledge you have learnt throughout the course. This 2-hour paper consists of short-answer questions.
- Written assignment on a topic set by PIABC on an annual basis.
How long does it take to complete the Certificate course?
The PIABC Level 3 Certificate in Packaging course has a recommended total learning time of approximately 139 hours, split across working your way through the course content, revising, sitting the exam and researching and writing your assignment. We expect our learners to take 6 to 12 months to complete the qualification.
The examination must be sat during one of PIABC's two examination series, which take place in June and November each year.
To help you to make good progress through your course and complete it promptly, we will work with you to devise a personal progress plan.
How much does the course cost?
This blended learning course costs £1750 (+ VAT at 20% where applicable). IOM3 members are entitled to a 20% discount off the course fee, and Business Partner Programme subscribers are entitled to a 10% discount off the course fee.
There is an additional fee of £200 (VAT-free) for your registration with the awarding body PIABC. This covers your registration with PIABC, one sitting of each of the assessment methods and certification on completion of the qualification.
I chose to study this qualification to support my first packaging job and it helped to broaden my knowledge and understanding of packaging. I would highly recommend the course to anyone looking to improve their knowledge, or explore new disciplines; you never know what it could lead to!