Access to Higher Education: Diploma in Humanities, Education & Social Work

The Access Diploma is predominantly based upon continuous assessment (coursework). There will be a variety of teaching methods used throughout the course, including debates, small group exercises, on-line research, group presentations, whole-class teaching and peer assessment. You will be supported and encouraged to develop and practice the skills that will enable you to become an independent learner and fully prepare you for Higher Education. Students compile a portfolio of assessed work throughout the year, which is externally moderated at the end of the course.



In some subjects, there will be in-class timed tests. Examination practice is a mandatory requirement of all Access courses to fully prepare students.



Students taking GCSE English or Maths will also have external examinations in May/June.

This course is for learners aged 19 and above.

Most universities require at least 5 GCSE grades at C/4 or above, including English and Maths, as part of the entry requirements for degree courses. GCSE English and Maths are separate qualifications from the Access Diploma so, if required, we offer additional lessons for these subjects. If you don’t already have a C/4 grade in Maths or English at GCSE, these are currently free for students over 19. Please contact our Advice & Guidance Centre for further details. Please note that due to the amount of work involved, we strongly recommend that you only take one GCSE at the same time as the Access Diploma. If you already have GCSE Maths and English (or equivalent), you must bring copies of your certificates with you to your interview.

Basic IT skills would be helpful.

If you do not currently hold the above entry requirements, you could apply for the Pre Access Level 2 Award in Skills for Employment, Training & Personal Development to help gain entry onto Access to HE study.

There is no required set reading before the course starts, although you may find it useful to read about current affairs in the media or look at A Level websites such as S-cool (www.s-cool.co.uk) to find out more about the subjects you are thinking of studying.

It would be useful to research courses and universities prior to starting the course to help with your university application, which takes place in the first term. It is also recommended that you thoroughly research your preferred career pathway.

Please note: You need to have a genuine desire and aptitude to enter Education or Social Work. Most universities will expect you to have gained experience working in a relevant social care setting and will also require a DBS check as part of their entry requirements.

This course is a Level 3 programme which enables you to progress on to a foundation degree or full honours degree at Petroc (awarded by Plymouth University) or to a BA or BSc programme at any UK university. This diploma leads to a variety of degree courses in, for example, teaching, archaeology, anthropology, English, journalism, history, sociology, social work, politics and criminology.

There is an excellent Moodle (VLE) for the Diploma courses where you will have access to resources and additional reading, as well as extensive Learning Resources support.

Individual computers can be booked for use in study periods.

– Our classrooms have undergone modernisation in recent years and are well-equipped with up-to-date technologies.

– There are dedicated and well-equipped specialist laboratories.

– The tutors are well qualified, experienced, enthusiastic and understand the needs of Access learners and provide appropriate support and guidance.

– There is also support with applying to university from specialists in our Advice & Guidance Centre.

– We have a designated common room for mature students only (19+).

Q: Do universities recognise the Access to Higher Education Diploma?

A: The Access to Higher Education Diploma is a national qualification and is recognised and accepted by UK universities. Many universities have policies to encourage applications from Access to Higher Education students, who are valued for their maturity and willingness to contribute to discussions.



Q: How much does it cost?

A: You may be entitled to full fee remission if you are aged 19 – 23 and studying your first full Level 3 qualification. To find out more about the Advanced Learner Loan, please contact our Advice and Guidance Centre.

Applicants who take the Advanced Learner Loan do not need to pay anything upfront. If you complete your Access Diploma and then go on to complete a course in Higher Education, the remaining balance of your Advanced Learner Loan, including any interest on it, will be written off. You can get full information from Student Finance England. Or you can contact our Advice and Guidance Centre for advice and information on fees.



Q: Can I get any help with childcare or other costs?

A: Some additional help may be available, dependent upon individual circumstances – please contact our Advice & Guidance Centre for advice and information.

Every full-time student at Petroc will have their own Study Programme which will include:

– Your academic or vocational qualification.

– Maths and English Language development – if you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 in either of these subjects.

– Work Experience – hours will vary depending on your qualification and course level.

– Tutor Support – to support your personal, academic and professional development.

– Sustainability – helping you to identify how you can improve the sustainability of your future employment sectors.

– Personal Development Awards – developing six key areas of personal and employability behaviours to prepare you for the working world.