L&D Improvement Analyst: Evidence-based practice for L&D

Two routes to building the analytical capability L&D needs to demonstrate real business impact in an AI-enabled world. One levy-funded, one self-paced — both grounded in the same evidence-led approach.

49 organisations represented Representing 1 million+ learners

The problem these programmes solve

Most L&D professionals are trained to design and deliver learning, but not to prove it works. As organisations become more data-driven and AI-enabled, the pressure to demonstrate business impact has never been greater.

Traditional evaluation models aren't meeting that demand, and L&D is increasingly at risk of being sidelined as a result.

The evidence is stark

From our research and industry data:

70% of CFOs don't think L&D delivers value for money
95% of L&D professionals say they need to improve their evaluation

Choose the right path for your situation

LaDBAC is often a natural starting point before moving into LaDIA. Both cover the same foundational thinking, but serve different circumstances.

Growth and Skills Levy

L&D Improvement Analyst Programme (LaDIA)

L&D Improvement Analyst Programme

An 18-month specialist qualification built on the Level 4 qualification framework, designed entirely around the specific challenges of Learning and Development. Develops expertise in business analysis, research methods, data and measurement, stakeholder engagement, and applied AI for L&D.

Duration18 months
LevelLevel 4
FundingGrowth and Skills Levy funded (England)
DeliveryBlended: live + Zoom + portfolio
RequiresEmployer sponsorship
Self-paced

L&D Improvement Certificate (LaDBAC)

L&D Improvement Certificate

A flexible, self-paced programme that gives L&D professionals the analytical tools to prove and improve their impact without needing a qualification or employer sponsor. Covers evidence-based practice, evaluation, data-driven insights, and applied AI in a more accessible format.

FormatSelf-paced + live sessions
Structure8 modules
Includes8 group sessions + 3 coaching calls
CommitmentApprox. 1 hour per week
RequiresNo employer sponsorship

What both programmes cover

The same foundational thinking across both routes, delivered at different depths and paces.

Becoming a learning scientist

Evidence-based practice and analytical thinking as the foundation for everything else.

Evaluation frameworks and methods

Kirkpatrick, ROI, LTEM, and beyond — building a robust, practical approach.

Data-driven insights

Using data to strengthen L&D's position and speak the language of performance.

Stakeholder analysis

Understanding what the business actually needs and aligning L&D with business priorities.

ROI and business metrics

Making the business case for L&D investment and demonstrating value to senior stakeholders.

Applied AI for L&D

Using AI tools to improve analysis, design, evaluation, and reporting.

Communication and storytelling

Translating evidence into decisions that resonate with business leaders.

Implementation and practice

Applying everything to your own context and building capability that lasts.

From people on the programme

"
The programme has provided a fresh lens on tackling challenges and seizing opportunities within L&D. It isn't just changing the way I think about challenges, it's also equipping me with the tools to conquer them.
Tom Green
Head of Learning Design, Morrisons
"
I've learnt more in the first two months on this programme than I did on the whole of my Level 5 Learning and Development Qualification.
Head of People
Marugame Udon
"
I feel like it's helped me take part in those conversations more confidently, because I feel like I'm armed with the right vocabulary and I understand how to back it up.
Global Learning Experience Specialist
Ralph Lauren
"
I came on the programme because I was feeling stuck. When I came on, I got what I expected and more — mainly around understanding the big boss' language and realising that I've got skills and knowledge to develop around data and presenting it.
Learning Delivery Manager
Anchor

L&D professionals who want to prove and improve their impact

L&D professionals who want to move beyond basic training metrics and demonstrate real business value
HR and talent leaders who need to align learning with business impact
Learning consultants wanting to strengthen their evaluation and analytical skills
Experienced practitioners who want formal recognition and deeper analytical capability
Anyone in L&D who wants to understand how the business really works and position themselves accordingly

Which route is right for you?

LaDIA is for those who want formal recognition, deeper expertise, and a supported 18-month journey with their organisation's backing. LaDBAC is for those who want to start now, at their own pace.

Book a discovery call → Request the programme guide →