The P3O® Foundation & Practitioner course gives you a recognised qualification in managing Portfolio, Programme and Project Offices. It introduces proven methods for designing and running an effective PMO, helping organisations align initiatives with business priorities, allocate resources wisely, and deliver projects successfully.
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P3O® Foundation & Practitioner
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Develop PMO expertise with the P3O Foundation & Practitioner course
This five-day accredited and focused programme introduces the P3O framework and shows you how to build and enhance Project, Programme and Portfolio Offices. Foundation level focuses on principles and key terms, while Practitioner level enables you to apply this knowledge through practical, scenario-based exercises.
Learning objectives
By completing this course, you will gain an understanding of:
- The distinctions between portfolio, programme and project management
- The P3O model and its office structures
- Selecting and shaping the right P3O approach
- Why organisations establish P3Os and the services they provide
- Steps for launching or revitalising a P3O
- Tools and methods that support P3O operations
- Different types of P3O structures
- Planning considerations for P3O implementation
- How to create a business case to secure leadership approval
- The roles and responsibilities within a P3O environment
What you'll learn
You’ll gain the knowledge and practical skills to design, implement and manage P3O structures that strengthen organisational decision-making and improve delivery outcomes. Using case-based activities, you’ll develop the confidence to apply the framework in different business contexts.
P3O models
The course introduces the different model types available within the P3O framework and how each can be applied. You’ll explore flexible approaches such as virtual support teams, short-term offices set up for specific projects, and permanent structures designed to support ongoing transformation. You’ll also learn how these models can be combined or adapted to fit your organisation’s needs.
Roles within a P3O
You’ll examine the key responsibilities that underpin a P3O structure. These range from senior sponsors who provide strategic direction, to managers who oversee operations, through to specialist positions such as analysts, officers and business case writers. Each role contributes uniquely, but together they enable the office to function effectively and consistently.
Techniques and tools
Discover the practical methods used to keep a P3O running smoothly. These include dashboards for monitoring portfolio health, prioritisation tools to ensure resources are directed at the most valuable initiatives, collaborative workshops to support planning and decision-making, and process mapping techniques to streamline workflows and improve efficiency.
What's included
- Fully accredited P3O Foundation & Practitioner training
- Exam entry for both Foundation and Practitioner levels
- Official P3O guidance manual
- Specialist preparation resources for the Practitioner exam
- Ongoing tutor assistance
- Optional extras such as Take2 exam insurance at checkout
Key facts
Certification
P3O Foundation & Practitioner training course
Ideal for
Designed for Senior Responsible Owners, Programme Directors, Portfolio and Project Managers, as well as those in PMO or programme support roles who want to formalise their knowledge.
Prerequisites
You must successfully pass the P3O Foundation exam before attempting the Practitioner assessment.
Exam information
Both Foundation and Practitioner exams are delivered in different formats. Full information on structure, timing and pass marks can be found in the FAQ section.
Optional extras
Learners can add the official P3O manual and Take2 re-sit insurance at the checkout stage.
Pre-course
If you choose the classroom or live virtual classroom option, you’ll be required to complete mandatory online learning before the training begins.
FAQs
The P3O® Foundation & Practitioner course equips you with the knowledge and tools to establish, manage and improve PMOs using the P3O framework. You’ll gain confidence in applying its principles, models and techniques to deliver real organisational value and career progression.
What format do the exams take and what scores are needed to pass?
The Foundation exam is a 60-minute closed-book test made up of 75 multiple-choice questions, of which 70 are marked. A score of at least 35 marks (50%) is required to succeed. The Practitioner exam lasts 150 minutes and is open book, using only the official P3O guide. It consists of four scenario-based questions totalling 80 marks. To pass, you must achieve at least 40 marks (50%).
Do the P3O certifications need to be renewed?
Yes. Both the Foundation and Practitioner certificates are valid for three years. To maintain your qualification, you will need to recertify within this period. There are several options for renewal, and full details are available from PeopleCert.
How long does it take to finish the training and exams?
This depends on your chosen study route. The classroom and live virtual classroom options run for five days each. The blended route includes around 18 hours of online Foundation study plus a two-day Practitioner classroom or virtual course. In every case, you’ll have 12 months from purchase to complete both exams, with Foundation required before progressing to Practitioner.
Will I receive separate certificates for Foundation and Practitioner?
Yes. Once you have passed each exam, PeopleCert will issue you with two certificates: one for the Foundation level and another for Practitioner.
What our learners say
"Great content, good system, easy access, well managed."
Agnes Scheffer, PRINCE2 learner
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