Level 4 – Funeral Celebrancy
Feedback

I’m not only really enjoying it [the distance learning], but already using what I’m learning in my day to day work – which is really pleasing! I felt that way literally from the first page.  The distance learning workbook was really informative. Very detailed, as would be expected from a course at this level. I also still really appreciated having a physical copy of the workbook (possibly just because this suits my style of learning) but being able to supplement this with the online content referred to via the workbook links. It was really well presented, sections are set out so as to be easily accessible, not too dense. Very recognisably Civil Ceremonies too which is appreciated (and feels reassuringly consistent) for students who completed their Level 3 with CCL. Guidance felt like it came from a place of great experience and knowledge, which was hugely appreciated. The format used for giving feedback was especially good – the layout made everything entirely clear and so it was also clear to tell what additional work was needed.

I think voice coaching is something that lots of celebrants might feel that they don’t need. However, this session was fantastic. It was really personalised and the techniques I learned with the voice coach I now use for every ceremony I do.

The visit to Obitus – This was such a great visit. It’s always wonderful to meet people as equally passionate as you are about your work. Understanding the way in which Obitus works and their processes brought me much more confidence in talking to families about them, but also talking to crematorium staff too.

Communication brilliant as always too. Questions answered rapidly. Everything always super clear.

Assessment Day – Venue felt much more academic than the venue for Level 3 which felt really fitting. It was still comfortable and had all the facilities you would need but very much put you in a ‘here to learn’ mindset, which I appreciated. Little changes like this help to distinguish CCL training from others I feel. This is a rigorous course which is not easy to pass and using this venue adds to the professional nature that we’re all trying to promote within celebrancy.

I can’t thank you all enough for this course, it was exactly what I needed. I don’t think that the course could have been improved in anyway. My only suggestion would be to promote the importance of such study more widely. I do feel that there is a need to further promote awareness of the need to be qualified, the enormous benefits this brings to families and the importance of promoting our work more widely within the funeral industry as a profession. Kirstie Atherton, who was the first celebrant to complete the NOCN Level 4 Diploma course in September 2024!

I have learned such a lot. It [the workbook] is so refreshing, it is a masterpiece. I am really enjoying it and I am already putting things into practise and have adapted my style. A very refreshing and enlightening course especially for those who have been working as a celebrant for a few years. The great thing by doing this higher level qualification is that it will give you a clear identity within the funeral industry of someone who is prepared to embark on a continued professional development pathway. All of the nine chapters were of great benefit and now feature in all of my write-ups and family interviews. Would thoroughly recommend to anyone who is serious about becoming better at what they do. Becoming better is a journey – an investment for the roads ahead! Sue Homer – Dec 2024

The workbook was really useful as a base for further online research. It meant I knew what I was trying to find or learn more about, particularly in the poetry section. It was easy to navigate through the sections. I also liked that I could dip in and out of sections. It also enabled me to answer the sections in the order that suited me – I prefer to jump around!

Guidance given – Brilliant. It was to the point and meant I knew exactly what I needed to amend and why.

I loved the Level 3 and I loved the Level 4 too! Definitely worth the money, time and commitment- thank you.

Everything I learnt on both courses has been pertinent and useful. I have always felt confident I could call the office and be given advice if I needed it! Rachel Bown – Dec 24

I felt that this was a really important course to undertake to advance my professional training and knowledge. It wasn’t easy and fitting it in among my daily role as a celebrant could be hard, but it challenged me where I needed to be challenged and cemented, for me, the things that I am doing well already. The feedback was always supportive and constructive and I knew that Barbara and Anne were always on the end of the phone, or an email, if I had any queries.
For me, the voice coaching session was really helpful, and I also think that every celebrant should take the opportunity to visit Obitus, if they can. Everything they shared with us that day was helpful and informative, and just spending time with other celebrants is always a bonus. I certainly wouldn’t have been ready for this level of training until I had had a few years as a celebrant under my belt, as my experience helped enormously, but for anyone who undertook their Level 3 a few years ago, I would highly recommend that they do this course. Thank you to everyone who helped to put this together – it has certainly taken my work to the next level. Ruth Jewell – Dec 24

Distance Learning – I was a little like a rabbit in headlights when I started the Level 4. It is very exciting and has already put a new spin on ceremonies and the way I write. Civil Ceremonies has taken what I do to a whole new level. Having been a funeral celebrant since 2015, I have attended several NOCN courses over the years; the L4 Diploma flexible learning format allowed me to learn at my own pace and fit studies into my busy schedule working as a funeral celebrant. The course content was in depth, the content was well-structured and easy to follow with clear instructions and questions to be answered. The zoom meetings and interactive elements made the learning experience enjoyable, with a wealth of experience from other experts in the field being shared. The supporting materials and resources were very helpful, and tutors were always available to offer guidance on questions if required.

The distance learning workbook was very extensive and concise; being relevant to the course requirements. Each section of the workbook provided in depth examples that could be used, not only to answer the relevant questions in relation to the section requirements but also apply to current funeral services and could be applied to real life.

Feedback – One of the standout features of Civil Ceremonies training is its extensive and comprehensive nature. Not only does it cover a wide range of topics, some of which you would never think of, but tutors also provide invaluable feedback. This feedback is incredibly detailed, demonstrating the assessors’ commitment to quality and their knowledge of the industry. It’s more than just correction and support. It’s a dialogue that encourages further exploration of a particular subject. The feedback was very specific, pointing out exactly what was needed to improve by asking thought-provoking questions, and the feedback pushed you to delve deeper into the subject matter. It also included actionable suggestions on how to make those improvements. The feedback was constructive and supportive, focusing on strengths and areas for growth. It helped me feel motivated to continue learning and keep improving, exploring and being diverse in thoughts and actions for the future.

The vocal coaching session was something I was never prepared for, especially having a strong northern accent. I went in with the attitude of ‘Hope she doesn’t try change my accent’ The tutor was exceptional in that she listened to my feelings, advised on my current range and delivery, before she gave me the tools to improve my delivery. Our voices are the most fragile component in what we do, especially when as celebrants we are often in close contact with hundreds of grieving people, out in the open and having to deliver in different situations. A strong, clear voice is essential for our role. Showing me how to look after my vocals and get the most out of my voice in different ranges was a game changing moment.

The visit to Obitus HQ was a fantastic experience. Surrounding myself with passionate individuals who are shaping the future of the industry was truly inspiring. It was a much-needed reminder of the potential for positive change and the diversity within funerals. The meeting was very informative in that it gave you a behind the scenes look at how the business of Obitus works and their concept and vision for the future. The staff all helpful and truly passionate about the vision. We were all given a keepsake box for when we are explaining and showing families different examples. There was guidance on where to get additional training and what we can and cannot do as a celebrant. Overall it was a very informative in person session. The little keepsake bags were also a lovely touch.

The Child and Baby Zoom Sessions were incredibly informative, providing invaluable insights and strategies when it comes to dealing with bereaved parents. The detailed explanations and practical tips were easy to understand and apply. There was extensive experience and knowledge evident in every session. The expertise provided reassurance and guidance, making the sessions truly valuable. Along with the knowledge of what is available for bereaved parents as a celebrant we can now apply a whole new concept when writing services and offering guidance.The sessions were well-structured and engaging, with opportunities for Q&A and discussion. This interactive format made the learning experience more enjoyable and personalised.

Administration – The course was well-organised and easy to navigate, with clear guidance on what to do next and where to find the information. The course materials were well-structured and logically sequenced. The course syllabus provided a clear overview of the content and expectations. The course administrators were responsive and helpful, by phone, email and in person, with all channels being effective and timely. The learning platform was user-friendly and reliable, and support was excellent when needed. The whole team within Civil Ceremonies team created a supportive and positive learning environment – based upon all that has been applied, I would recommend this course to others based on the excellent administration.

Assessment Day – The Business Development Centre’s modern facilities, easy motorway access, and inclusive atmosphere created an ideal learning environment. The choice of dining was exceptional, to even think of hydrating juice options and snacks to energise; even the facilities in the bedrooms were like a 5*** hotel. Excellent choice for delivery of the practical assessments, it was a calm, relaxed environment with wonderful break out areas, where you not only delivered your assessments but gained further experience from watching other delegates. The venue’s layout and measures significantly contributed to a positive and stress-free assessment day experience. Although exhausting it was also invigorating and inspiring to be amongst business minded celebrants.

Over the many years as a celebrant, I recognise the significant responsibility of this role. It involves delving deep into people’s lives and identifying the subtle nuances that may not be immediately apparent at that first meeting, it is about being diverse and inclusive, embracing each situation without judgement. The funeral industry is forever changing and so is society. It is important as a celebrant to be at the forefront, setting the standards and a good example, to give reassurance to all those whom you are working alongside, not just families but supporting funeral directors and other officiants. It’s not just about talking; it’s about active listening, it is about creating, sharing ideas, it is working together, supporting each other and most of all it is about being creative every day – It is a true calling! Becky Boothroyd – Dec 24

Having just completed the first section of the level 4 diploma, I can already see the difference in my scripts and my approach to writing a funeral. I loved all that I learnt doing the level 3 course, but even just this first section (which I have to admit was not easy) has elevated the way I write. I know doing this course is going to be a challenge. There is a LOT of work needed, and some of the questions made my brain ache, but, I know this will make me a much better celebrant. I will be able to offer more to my families, but also see it as a challenge to myself-constantly making me think in different ways and helping me to be the best I can be. I’ll look forward to meeting the other celebrants on this journey with me when we eventually get to the residential. On to section 2… Lisa Dundas