PRINCE2® Courses

What is PRINCE2®?

PRINCE2® (Projects in Controlled Environments) is a structured project management methodology that is widely recognised and used in both the public and private sectors around the world.

These courses provide a standardised framework for professionals to use, ensuring that projects are well-organised, efficiently managed, and aligned with business objectives. The methodology is process-driven, focusing on dividing a project into manageable stages, with clear templates, processes, and steps for each phase of the project lifecycle.

This approach helps project managers and teams to maintain control over the project’s progress and effectively handle risks and issues.

PRINCE2 training

The PRINCE2® qualification is designed to validate an individual's understanding of project management and ability to apply this methodology. The certification is divided into two levels: Foundation and Practitioner.

PRINCE2 Courses

At Training ByteSize, we proudly offer both levels of PRINCE2®:

PRINCE2 Foundation

The PRINCE 2 Foundation Course level covers the basic principles and terminology that will be used throughout the PRINCE2® qualifications. This ensures that learners understand the methodology’s structure, key concepts, and benefits.

This level qualification is suitable for anyone involved in projects – from team members to aspiring project managers – providing a solid grounding in the PRINCE2 project management concept, ready for optional further study.

PRINCE2 Practitioner

The Practitioner qualification level builds on the Foundation knowledge, focusing on how to apply the PRINCE2® framework in real-world project scenarios. This level is intended for current project managers or those looking to advance their project management careers.

The Practitioner exam tests the candidate’s ability to tailor and apply PRINCE2® principles to the specifics of a given project, assessing their competence in managing projects within the framework.

Successful completion of both levels demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the PRINCE2® methodology and the ability to manage projects effectively using this internationally recognised approach.

What are the benefits of PRINCE2® training?

The benefits of obtaining a PRINCE2® qualification are significant for both learners and the organisations where they work.

This training allows learners to earn a universally recognised certification that enhances their career prospects and professional credibility. For organisations, employing PRINCE2®-certified professionals ensures a higher standard of project management, which can lead to improved project outcomes, greater efficiency, and better alignment with strategic goals.

The structured approach of PRINCE2® training helps organisations manage resources and risks more effectively, delivering projects on time and within budget.

Flexible learning pathways

At Training ByteSize, it’s incredibly important to us to offer flexibility – there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to learning. That's why we offer multiple pathways to suit your individual needs and preferences.

Choose from the following options:

Virtual classroom training

Our interactive virtual classrooms allow you to participate in PRINCE2® training from the comfort of your home or office. Led by experienced instructors, these live sessions allow you to interact with instructors and fellow participants, gaining insights from collaboration.

Virtual classroom training offers an immersive learning experience while providing the flexibility of remote learning.

Online self-paced courses

For professionals who prefer to learn at their own pace, our online self-paced courses offer a greater degree of flexibility for their learning journey. PeopleCert accredited, you’ll still receive high-quality course materials, videos, and quizzes – only anytime, anywhere.

With our self-paced courses, professionals have the freedom to learn at their convenience, balancing professional commitments with your studies.

Accreditation information

Our PRINCE2® courses are all accredited by PeopleCert, meaning you can be sure the course materials are up-to-date and high quality.

Completing your qualifications with an accredited training provider ensures professionals and organisations are provided with quality-assured information that complies with industry standards.

Training ByteSize testimonials

‘I took the PRINCE2 Foundation & Practitioner course with TrainingByteSize. Fantastic virtual course delivery, Fatollah the trainer was great, extremely knowledgeable & insightful regarding the course content and exam techniques. Course format was engaging and interactive. Passed both my exams and would recommend to anyone looking at getting qualified in Project Management.’ – Carl Barnes, 5 stars

‘The course was really insightful and interesting. Calum, who ran the course, was an amazing facilitator which made the sessions flow.’ – Tara G, 5 stars

‘Very engaging course, making the subject easily digestible for a complete beginner. I really recommend joining the course in the classroom, it was easy to collaborate and get ideas from those who joined online too.’ – Lucy, 5 stars

‘I recently completed my Prince2 Foundation and Practitioner with Training Bytesize. I did the online learning package for my Foundation and a virtual classroom package for my Practitioner. All of the correspondence and pre-course reading provided was fantastic and gave a great insight into what was to come. The trainer, Andy, who led the two day virtual classroom course was really engaging and went through all of content in a meaningful way that really worked for me. The mock exams provided as part of the course were really relevant and were so beneficial to my exam preparation. I was so happy to pass my practitioner exam with flying colours and couldn't have done it without Training Bytesize. I would definitely use them again.’ – Liz Jackson, 5 stars.

FAQs

PRINCE2® vs PMP: what’s the difference?

PRINCE2® (Projects IN Controlled Environments) and PMP (Project Management Professional) are two prominent project management methodologies with distinct differences in their origins, frameworks, and applications.

PRINCE2®, developed by the UK government and governed by AXELOS Ltd, follows a process-based approach emphasising detailed project stages and structured methods. It is particularly popular in the UK and Europe, often used in government projects and sectors that benefit from a highly structured approach. PRINCE2® certification includes Foundation and Practitioner levels, with the Practitioner level requiring prior certification or equivalent qualifications.

In contrast, PMP, developed in the USA and governed by the Project Management Institute (PMI), is based on the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) Guide. This approach encompasses five process groups and ten knowledge areas, providing a broad range of project management best practices applicable across various industries and project types. PMP certification requires a combination of education, project management experience, and formal project management training, and it is recognised globally, particularly in North America, Asia, and the Middle East.

The key distinction lies in PRINCE2®’s detailed, methodical framework versus PMP’s flexible, comprehensive framework of best practices. PRINCE2® is well-suited for environments that require clear, defined processes, while PMP’s adaptability makes it ideal for diverse industries and projects. The choice between the two depends on factors such as geographic location, industry standards, and specific project needs.

APM vs PRINCE2®: which should I choose?

Choosing between an APM Project Management course and a PRINCE2® course depends on your career goals, the industry you are in, and the type of projects you intend to manage. Here are some factors you may want to consider:

Nature of the courses

APM

• Focuses on a broad range of project management skills and techniques.
• Covers the entire project lifecycle from concept to delivery.
• Recognised by a wide range of industries.
• Based on the APM Body of Knowledge, which includes both technical and soft skills.

PRINCE2®

• A structured project management method.
• Emphasises control, organisation, and a clearly defined framework.
• Divided into two levels: PRINCE2® Foundation and PRINCE2® Practitioner.
• Widely used in the UK and internationally, especially in government and large organisations.

Industry and job market

APM

• Suitable for various industries including construction, engineering, IT, finance, and more.
• Often preferred by employers who value comprehensive project management skills.

PRINCE2®

• Commonly used in IT, government projects, and large-scale organisational change projects.
• Preferred by employers who require a standardised approach to project management.

Certifications and career path

APM

• Offers multiple levels of certification.
• Recognised for its broad applicability and comprehensive approach to project management.

PRINCE2®

• Provides a clear framework with a focus on processes and stages.
• Certifications are highly valued for roles requiring rigorous project control and governance.

Learning style and approach

APM

• Ideal if you prefer a holistic approach to learning project management, including leadership and team management skills.
• Focuses on both the theoretical and practical aspects of managing projects.

PRINCE2®

• Best if you prefer a structured methodology with clear templates and processes.
• Focuses on stages and roles within a project, providing a clear roadmap for project delivery.

Summary

• Choose APM if you want a broad, versatile project management education that covers a wide range of skills and is recognised across multiple industries.
• Choose PRINCE2® if you prefer a structured, process-driven approach and aim to work in environments where a standardised methodology is essential.

Ultimately, both certifications are valuable and can significantly enhance your project management skills and career prospects. Consider your career goals, industry preferences, and the specific requirements of the roles you are aiming for to make the best decision.

How long is PRINCE2® certification valid?

All PeopleCert Business and IT certifications must be renewed within three years of their original certification date.

There are two ways in which you can renew your certification:

You can upgrade to PeopleCert’s Plus Plan membership to gain access to the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) program, which allows you to maintain your certifications by logging CPD points for daily professional activities.

Alternatively, you can keep your certifications current by attending another course and passing an exam within the same Product Suite before your certification’s renewal date.

What level qualification is PRINCE2®?

PRINCE2® qualifications are divided into different levels, each catering to different stages of expertise and roles within project management:

PRINCE2® Foundation

• Level: Introductory/Basic
• Purpose: Provides a basic understanding of the PRINCE2® methodology, terminology, and concepts.
• Target Audience: Individuals new to project management, or those who want to understand the PRINCE2® method.

PRINCE2® Practitioner

• Level: Intermediate/Advanced
• Purpose: Focuses on how to apply and tailor PRINCE2® in a project environment.
• Target Audience: Project managers and those who are involved in project management at a more hands-on level, who need to demonstrate that they can apply and tailor PRINCE2® in a variety of project environments and scenarios.

These qualifications align with the UK Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) and the European Qualifications Framework (EQF):

• PRINCE2® Foundation is generally considered equivalent to RQF Level 3/EQF Level 4.
• PRINCE2® Practitioner is generally considered equivalent to RQF Level 5/EQF Level 6.