About the course

If you ever wanted to be a teacher or work in the education profession then this course is for you. This Education, Teaching and Childhood Studies pathway provides a wide knowledge and understanding of the UK Education System. It will prepare you for study on any teaching/education related university course. The Access diploma will give you a solid grounding for when you commence your university degree, (BA, BSc), Foundation Degree or Higher National Diploma.

What is an Access to Higher Education course? 

An Access to Higher Education course is a 1 year pre-university course that prepares adults for study at university. This course is ideal if you have been out of education for a while, planning a career change or upskill in your current job. A typical Access course is 2-3 days a week, 9.30am-3pm and are taken by students of all ages and backgrounds.

Duration

3 full days. (This equates to 2.5 days direct delivery, in addition to 0.5 enrichment and/or workshop).
Classes start at 9.30am and end at 4.30pm*

*The department recognises that a large number of students have care or parental responsibilities and makes allowances to ensure these demands can continue to be met by learners.

Entry requirements

GCSE English or an equivalent Level 2 English qualification (i.e Functional Skills)

GCSE Science or an equivalent Level 2 Science qualification

GCSE Maths or an equivalent Level 1 Maths qualification (i.e Functional Skills)

We will consider exceptions to this requirement, subject to any other qualifications or evidence of the required competencies.

If you do not meet these entry requirements don’t worry, we also offer a Level 2 Pre-Access Foundation course. Contact Us or call 01279 868100 if you would like some advice or further information about this course.

Who is it suitable for?

This course is suitable for anyone who wishes to go to university and is taken by adults aged 19+. There is no upper age limit.

How much does it cost?

The cost of this course is £3,384

You may be entitled to an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the costs of your Access course. 

Student Finance England, who are responsible for student loans will ‘write off’ any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balances for your Access to HE course as soon as you complete a higher education course. This means you do not have to repay your Advanced Learner Loan if you progress to higher education and complete your degree programme.

You may be eligible to a Harlow College 19+ bursary to support with travel costs, childcare and course materials. 

Contact Us or call 01279 868100 to get the most up-to-date info on fees and the financial support that may be available.

Where will this course take me?

Once you've completed this course you can go on to study for a Foundation Degree or Degree in Education and Teaching at a University of your choice or progress onto a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HTLA) qualification.

Possible careers

• Early Years Teacher
• Secondary School Teacher
• Teaching Assistant
• Special Educational Needs Teacher
• Nursery Manager
• Play Therapist

And many more… 

Core modules

You will study a range of different modules across the programme, some focusing on your academic skills and some more subject specific, here are some examples of the types of modules you will study:

• Study and Research Skills
• Interpreting and Presenting Information
• Special Educational Needs
• Supporting Work in the Classroom Practical
• Safeguarding Children
• Psychology and Education

Please note these module examples are subject to change.

Ungraded Modules

HE Study Skills (Level 3, 9 credits)

Application of Number - Calculations  (Level 2, 3 credits)

Application of Number - Interpreting and Presenting Information (Level 2, 3 credits)

How will I be assessed?

• Essay
• Report
• Presentations
• Chart analysis
• Use of software
• Discussion
• Exams