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Access to HE – Education and Teaching Level 3

Course Code
ACCS303A.SP
Start Date
15/09/2025
End Date
19/06/2026
Location
Broxbourne Campus
Study Mode
Full Time

If you’re passionate about working with children and young people and dream of becoming a teacher, and don’t currently hold traditional qualifications, our Access to Higher Education Diploma in Education and Teaching offers a route into university-level study for adults aged 19yrs and over.

Access to HE is a full-time course, but with the flexibility of attending college just two days per week (Wednesdays and Thursdays, term-time only). You’ll need to commit to a significant amount of independent study outside the classroom, including blended learning and home-based assignments. Our structured timetable, supportive tutors, and clear assessment schedule will help you manage this commitment.

Taught by experienced and supportive staff, the course develops academic confidence and critical thinking as well as deep subject knowledge.

During the first term, we will support you with your UCAS application, helping you take your next steps into higher education. You’ll be taught by subject specialists with experience in health, science, and academic skills, and who are dedicated to helping adult learners succeed.

If you complete a QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma and then go on to complete a higher education course (like a degree), the remaining loan balance for the Access to HE course is written off (Source: Gateway Qualifications).

What makes Access to HE at HRC special?

  • Brand new for 2025/2026, this course has been developed in response to national recruitment needs in education.
  • Our courses are designed for adults who are returning to learning or may not have the right qualifications to take on a degree.
  • A blended learning approach helps balance studies, personal life, and work commitments.
  • Students can progress to degrees in Childhood, Early Years Education, Primary Education, Social Work, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, Sociology and many more.
  • Full UCAS application support is provided in the first term of the course

What do our students say?

”Access to HE was the biggest stepping stone I’ve ever taken on. The confidence I’ve gained during this time is truly unbelievable.”

You will complete a mix of mandatory and optional units chosen to support your progression to education-based university courses. These include:
  • Inclusivity and Disability in Education
  • Special Educational Needs Awareness
  • Teaching Experience*
  • Teaching Resources*
  • Understanding Assessment in Learning
  • Research Skills for Education
  • Behaviour Management in a Learning Environment
  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Education Studies
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Introduction to Sociology
  • Sociology of the Family
  • Safeguarding Children, Young People and/or Vulnerable Adults
  • Preparation for Higher Education
  • Academic Writing Skills
  • Communication – Speaking and Listening
  • Professional Interpersonal Behaviours
  • Promoting Wellbeing and Building Resilience
*Voluntary placements are not essential but may provide useful insight and experience for learners planning to enter schools or educational settings.Course structure: Teaching takes place over two days a week (Wednesdays and Thursdays) during term time only. Students are expected to attend from 9am to 5pm. There are 2–3 taught sessions per day, with additional independent learning required throughout the week. An assessment schedule (subject to change) is provided at the beginning of the course to help you plan effectively. 
You will be assessed using a range of methods including:
  • Essays
  • Reports
  • Presentations
  • Controlled assessments
  • Academic posters
  • Exams
This variety helps prepare you for university expectations and allows you to showcase your strengths in different formats. An assessment schedule will be shared at the beginning of the year to help you stay organised.
Bring whatever you need to support your learning. Most students use:
  • Notepads, pens and highlighters
  • A laptop or tablet for completing assignments
  • USB memory stick or cloud storage
If you think you may benefit from financial support, bursaries are available for eligible students. Please note that funding is subject to availability and criteria. For more information, contact:01992 411411  financialsupport@hrc.ac.uk
To take on this course, you will need:
  • GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above (Functional Skills Level 2 may be accepted in some cases)
  • A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required
If you’d like help understanding our entry requirements, give our Information Team a call on 01992 411411 and they will be able to pass your query on to a member of the Access to HE teaching team.
  • If you are aged 19yrs or over on 31st August 2025, you may be required to pay tuition fees of approximately £3,400 (based on 2024/25 fees and are subject to change for 2025/26)
  • If this is your first full Level 3 qualification, you may be entitled to free tuition
  • You can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover course fees if you’re not eligible for free tuition
  • You may also need to pay admin fees, exam fees, or an Awarding Body Registration fee where applicable.
Did you know?  If you complete a QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma and then go on to complete a higher education course, your loan for the Access course will be written off.More information is available via Gateway: https://www.gatewayqualifications.org.uk/learners/information-for-access-students/advance-learning-loans/
  • You may wish to organise a voluntary placement in an educational setting during the course (this is not essential, but it may support your understanding of content and help, srengthen your university application)
  • Academic support sessions will guide you through referencing, essay writing, and building independent learning habits
  • Guest speakers and enrichment opportunities may be included to enhance your understanding of education pathways
  • Tutors will support you in preparing your UCAS personal statement and choosing the right progression route
 
Successful completion of this course allows progression to a wide range of university degrees, including:
  • BA (Hons) Primary Education / Primary Teaching (with or without QTS)
  • BA (Hons) Education Studies
  • BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth Studies
  • BA (Hons) Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
  • BEd (Hons) in Childhood Education and Teaching
  • BA (Hons) Social Work or Youth Work
  • BSc (Hons) Psychology and Sociology / Mental Health and Wellbeing
You may also:
  • Apply for employment in schools, or education support services
  • Progress to relevant part-time training in education or behaviour support
  • Pursue a Higher or Degree Apprenticeship in education
NOTE: This is not a ‘Full and relevant’ Early Years Qualification.
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ACCS303A.SP
Access to HE – Education and Teaching Level 3
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