HOP Logo

HOP Fundamentals is an open-access, self-paced programme of quality assured and interactive learning modules, curated by partner providers or created by Save the Children. 

It is one of three levels of the HOP.



A person with a thinking bubble
Is this course for me?
Fundamentals is aimed at people beginning their career in the humanitarian sector or for those transitioning from the development sector. It is also aimed at individuals who have never received formal training on the essentials of humanitarian action, or for those wishing to ‘refresh’ their knowledge. 

A person with a lightbulb over their head
How will I benefit from this course?
By completing Fundamentals, you will acquire essential knowledge on 7 different learning paths:
  • Introduction and history of humanitarianism: begin to better understand the origins of humanitarian action
  • Law, principles and approaches: an overview of frameworks and approaches governing humanitarian action
  • Operations management: programming in emergency contexts - what to think about?
  • Configuration and management of humanitarian responses: manage and evaluate humanitarian responses
  • Cross-cutting themes: addressing important cross-cutting issues to consider in humanitarian action
  • Support a response: skills to effectively support and coordinate humanitarian responses
  • Technical skills: an overview of the different humanitarian technical sectors


A clock showing 15 minutes passing
How long will it take?
 We estimate that you will need about 40 hours to complete this programme as a whole. Your progress will be recorded automatically, and you can and you don't need to complete it in one go - you can always continue later from where you left off.

Three stacks of coins with a question mark on the top
How much does it cost?
 This programme is free!

A certificate scroll with a rosette on it
Will I get a certificate at the end?
 Yes - you will be able to download a certificate once you have have completed all of the modules within the programme.

The word START and a question mark in a circleHow do I start?
 Scroll to the top of the page and click on the       Join course       button. This will take you through to the programme content.

If you have any questions about the HOP, please email HOP@savethechildren.org.uk