How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- specialist courses offered by a professional body
University
Although not essential, you can study for a degree or postgraduate award in a subject, such as:
- psychology
- career guidance
- counselling
- psychotherapy
- education
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Coaching Professional Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship. For example, with an organisation offering life coaching, personal development or career development services.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Direct Application
Life coaching is not regulated in the UK, so anyone can work as a life coach if they feel they have the necessary skills and qualities.
It is often taken up as a second career. Experience in psychology, management, counselling, careers, HR or teaching could be useful.
You could also work towards accreditation from a coaching professional body to improve your job prospects.
Other Routes
You may have an advantage if you've got qualifications and membership of a professional organisation. A good starting point is to choose a course that is approved by an independent life coaching body.
You could also take training through the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), which offers courses in coaching methods.
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Career tips
It's important that you gather as much information about coaching courses as you can, as costs and the way they are taught vary widely.
Courses are available through online and face-to-face learning, so you can choose one that suits you best. Apart from your studies you would need to make time for practical coaching sessions and preparation activities.
Check that a course offers:
- contacts with coaching and mentoring bodies
- testimonials from coaches who have attended the course
- good resources for developing skills
- practical training, like workshops and seminars
- some supervised work with a practising life coach or assessor
- advice on setting up a business
- opportunities for continuing professional development
Further information
You can get more advice about a career in coaching from the: