Basingstoke College of Technology

Higher Education at BCOT

Access to Higher Education Diploma in Primary Education

Why study the Access to HE Diploma in Primary Education?

The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Primary Education has been designed specifically for mature students, both men and women, who may have some vocational experience but do not have the relevant qualifications for entry to higher education. The course will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to progress on to higher education to pursue a career in primary education.

What qualifications do you need to apply for the Access to HE Diploma in Primary Education?

No formal qualifications are required but you will need a good standard of literacy and numeracy which will be assessed at your interview. Most university courses require GCSE English, Maths and Science. If you do not already hold these qualifications or equivalents, there will be an opportunity to gain these as part of your Access course. You need to have some basic IT skills (word processing, e-mailing and use of the internet) and you will further develop these skills during the course. If English is not your first language you may be required to study for an ESOL qualification, again this will be assessed during your interview.
Your interview will be an opportunity for us to decide if course is suitable for you and your career aim.

What does the Access to HE Diploma in Primary Education involve?

To gain the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Primary Education you will study/ complete the following topics over a one-year programme:

You will also be expected to arrange a placement in a local primary school for a minimum duration of two weeks.

How will you learn on the Access to HE Diploma in Primary Education?

There will be lectures, visiting speakers, class discussions; small group work, individual research and presentations. You will be expected to attend all sessions. The course is designed to provide you with all the necessary guidance and support to enable you to learn efficiently and learn how to produce your work professionally, so that you will be fully prepared for university. You will be allocated a personal tutor who will support you during the course and advise you on applications to higher education. Further one to one support will also be available for learners with particular needs e.g. dyslexia and for anyone who needs extra help.

How will your work be assessed on the Access to HE Diploma in Primary Education?  

There is a demanding assessment programme of assignments and examinations throughout the year. Examination/assignment weighting is 50/50. Assignments could involve writing an essay or a report or giving a presentation. The course is divided into units which can earn credits at level 3 (A level standard) or at level 2 (GCSE level. You will need to pass every assessment available to be awarded all the credits.
The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Primary Education is awarded by the Open College Network, on successful completion of 60 credits, 45 of which must be at level 3. Our course offers a total of 60 credits, 45 at level 3 and 15 at level 2.
When you have completed the course you will receive a certificate showing the number of credits achieved.

What are the progression opportunities once you have completed the Access to HE Diploma in Primary Education?  

Early on in the first term of the course, you will begin the UCAS application process, which is the system for applying to university. We have established progression opportunities with local universities including University of Winchester, University of Reading and University of Chichester.
Individual universities may have different entry requirements but most will expect you to achieve at least a Pass for each unit, or higher. You will need to check entry requirements for the university/degree course you wish to apply for to ensure you will meet them.

When does the Access to HE Diploma in Primary Education start? 

Enrolment will take place during the first week of September 2009. The course will finish in June 2010. Term dates are similar to school terms but please check before booking any holidays.     

How much will the Access to HE Diploma in Primary Education cost?

The fee for the course will be approximately £500 (to be confirmed) which includes your registration fee and your tuition (the course may be free for some students – please enquire as to eligibility). You may also be asked to buy textbooks in certain subjects. A reading list will be available nearer the start of the course. If you need information on the availability of financial support for the duration of the course, please contact our Student Welfare Department, located on the North Site.

How do you apply for the Access to HE Diploma in Primary Education?

Please complete an application form, available from the Customer Services Department located in main reception on South Site. All applicants will be invited for an interview with the course tutor. This will be an opportunity to discuss your career plans and ask any further questions. You will need to bring any certificates of relevant qualifications, you may hold and we will ask you to complete some literacy and numeracy tasks. On enrolment you will need to complete a Criminal Records Bureau check as you will be working with children in placement.

Details of success and commitment to the Access to HE Diploma in Primary Education

Last year (2007-8) there were 20,000 Access to HE Diploma certificates issued to successful Access Learners across the UK. 90% of these learners accepted places at University.
The benefits of the Access to HE Diploma to wider society can be seen from the huge numbers of successful learners who are now following professional careers in nursing, teaching and many others, which before the Access course, were out of their reach.
The Access to HE Diploma delivers on the priorities of the Governments agenda of Widening Participation and of ensuring that by 2020 40% of the UK’s workforce is educated to at least level 4.

Who can you contact if you need any further information?

Karon Chewter
Programme Manager
Tel: 01256 306207

Email: karon.chewter@bcot.ac.uk

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