Learning and Development Practice in the Workplace: The Complete Guide

by Kathy Beevers, David Hayden

Overview

The essential introduction to learning and development for CIPD students and early-career practitioners.

How can new L&D professionals design and deliver impactful learning experiences in today's workplaces? Learning and Development Practice in the Workplace by Kathy Beevers and David Hayden gives Foundation and Intermediate CIPD students, as well as those in L&D roles, the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed in both study and practice.

Written in a clear, accessible style, the book explains the role of the L&D professional, the organizational context for learning and the skills needed to thrive. It covers how to identify learning needs, design tailored activities and deliver learning through multiple formats, including face-to-face, virtual, coaching, mentoring, informal, social and self-directed learning. Fully updated, this edition adds new content on professional behaviours, facilitation, monitoring and transfer and new learning technologies.

Structured learning features include:
- Real-world examples to link theory with workplace practice
- Reflective activities to consolidate learning
- Practitioner insights and 'next step' suggestions to encourage and assist application
- Online lecture slides and self-test questions for structured support

Whether preparing for a CIPD qualification or beginning a career in L&D, this textbook equips learners with the tools to create engaging, effective and measurable learning experiences.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781398621909
Publisher:	Kogan Page, Ltd.
Publication date:	11/03/2025
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	368
File size:	8 MB

About the Author

Kathy Beevers, Chartered FCIPD, was the Chief External Quality Advisor for CIPD. She continues to work as an Internal Quality Advisor for Apprenticeship End Point Assessment and develops a range of learning and support materials for CIPD Qualification students. She is based in Halifax, UK.

David Hayden, Chartered FCIPD, is the founder of Talent Delivers, an L&D consultancy He has held a range of roles across the people profession, including managing learning and development teams and has been working with CIPD qualifications for more than 15 years. He is based in Doncaster, UK.

Kathy Beevers, Chartered FCIPD, is a qualified trainer, coach and author. She runs a learning and
qualifications consultancy, Lightbulb Learning Ltd, where she works with individuals and organisations
to develop skills and knowledge, as well as design ways of capturing and accrediting learning. She is
also the Chief External Quality Advisor (CEQA) for CIPD.

Table of Contents

• • Chapter - 01: Professional&Ethical Practice;
  • Chapter - 02: Sharpening The Axe;
  • Chapter - 03: Organisations and The Operating Environment;
  • Chapter - 04: Establishing The Learning and Development Need;
  • Chapter - 05: Designing The Learning&Development Solution;
  • Chapter - 06: Facilitating Face-To-Face Learning in Groups;
  • Chapter - 07: Learning Technologies and Digital Delivery;
  • Chapter - 08: Informal, Social and Self-Directed Learning;
  • Chapter - 09: Coaching And Mentoring to Support Learning;
  • Chapter - 10: Evaluation&Impact Measurement

Editorial Reviews

"Learning and Development Practice in the Workplace is an absolute go-to for anyone involved in or curious about L&D-whether you are a student, just starting your career, or already working in the field. It breaks down all the key theories in a practical way that actually makes sense, and pairs them with real workplace examples that are relevant. What makes it stand out is how it balances the 'why' behind learning with the 'how' of doing it right on the job. Kathy & David have a deep understanding of L&D and the book just gets it right. A fantastic addition for all of us involved (or starting) in L&D."

Emmanuel Tsochas

"Learning and Development Practice in the Workplace is a great resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of how people learn and grow in professional environments. Along with the theoretical foundation of L&D, it provides clear insights into actionable tools and techniques for practitioners at all levels."

Vanda Sinkova

"What a read... Learning and Development Practice in the Workplace had me hooked from the first page! Packed with countless resources to support learners on their L&D qualification journey, along with an abundance of practical tips for L&D professionals to use each day. A trusted resource, reflecting CIPD professional standards and combining just the right amount of practice and theory."

Ali House

"This book is practical, inspiring, and easy to relate to, yet grounded in real expertise. It is packed with examples, and reflective prompts that you can actually use, not just read and admire. What I appreciate most is the way it blends theory with practical insight. Every chapter encourages you to think critically about how learning happens and how to make it work for people, including those who face unique challenges. The passion for inclusive, meaningful, and impactful learning of both authors shines through, and it engages you to move on to the next chapter. Reading it reminded me why I do this work and how much potential we have to make a difference."

Sheila Moore

"This book is a great companion to anyone starting or developing their career in the field of workplace learning - a great way to focus on professional development, reflection, designing quality learning for others and focusing on new technology. Being able to work in part of a modern team of people professionals means making sure you are savvy on topics such as digital delivery, social and self-directed learning, as well as coaching, evaluation, impact, and more. All of this, and more, is what you'll be able to get from time well spent with this resource."

Jo Cook

"Kathy and David have created an excellent and comprehensive fifth edition here that will well serve the L&D profession, those people already working in it, those seeking to work within it and anyone who wants to place their L&D practice at the heart of their organisation. Packed full of reflective activities and real world examples this edition is the 'go to' whether you are currently studying or not. There is something new for everyone. I particularly liked the inclusion of 'professional and ethical practice', as L&D, at all levels can influence their organisation culture often to a greater extent that they believe. Well done Kathy and David on producing this fifth edition of Learning and Development Practice in the Workplace. We look forward to encouraging our L&D Apprentice and CIPD learners to boost their professional edge by grabbing their copy."

Hazel Cray

"Packed with fresh insights on AI, digitalisation and the evolving role of L&D, this fifth edition shows how workplace learning has been transformed. It captures these changes brilliantly and reflects the relevant standards of the CIPD Profession Map, making it an essential guide for those studying the Level 5 qualification and above, as well as for practitioners who want to stay ahead in a fast-changing world of L&D.

Kathy Beevers and David Hayden's works have been my go-to for clarity and practicality - a trusted reference that shapes my L&D practice and the learning experiences I design.

"

Jo Bteddini