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Ashton Sixth Form College, Darnton Road, Ashton under Lyne. OL6 9RL. 0161 330 2330 Admissions: 0161 666 8215 Email: HEadmissions@asfc.ac.uk Web: www.asfc.ac.uk

UNIVERSITY COURSES AT ASHTON SIXTH FORM COLLEGE

WELCOME TO THE UNIVERSITY CENTRE AT ASHTON SIXTH FORM COLLEGE 0161 666 8215

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Ashton Sixth Form College’s University Centre forms a significant part of our provision and has both an excellent reputation for success and an outstanding record of student support. We are committed to ensuring that you receive the very best teaching and support with your studies, in a vibrant learning environment. Our students are achieving at the very highest level and we ensure their success is recognised and celebrated.

We are extremely proud of our students and their successes. I hope that you will join us and I look forward to welcoming you to our college. ________ Dr Janet Nevin, Principal

Why Study With Us?

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School Direct

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Education

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Early Childhood Studies

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Case Studies

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Media Production

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Art and Design

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Health Studies

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How to Apply

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Money Matters

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Support and Facilities

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Student Voice

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www.asfc.ac.uk

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Returning to study was somewhat daunting to say the least, however since embarking on the Foundation Year Health Course last September (and taking 3 GCSE evening courses alongside not wanting to do a half-hearted job of course!) my time at Ashton Sixth Form College has been nothing short of brilliant.

Nicole Slater Foundation Year Health ——

Before commencing my further studies I had worried that I had left it too late, but in hindsight I now wonder, had I not have done this at the age I am now, whether I would have got as much out of my studies.

The key for me was that if I truely wanted to gain my nursing qualifications, then further study was a must, but rather than dreading my classes, I found them very enjoyable, meeting other like-minded students and I have made some wonderful new friends.

The facilities and resources are great in themselves, but coupled with the unfailing support of all the staff I have encounterd at Ashton Sixth Form College along this journey of mine, there hasn’t been a moment of regret on my part, in fact I shall be very sorry to leave. All of my tutors have been fantastic and taught the course in a very manageable way, they have provided endless resources for self-learning which is very much a part of HE learning.

However as my time at Ashton Sixth Form College unfortunately draws to a close I look back on this year with a great sense of pride and above all thanks to the HE department - my life has changed immensely in this year at Ashton Sixth Form College, absolutely for the better and thanks to their tireless support, and my own hard work (you completely get out of this course what you put in), that I now look forward to graduating from my BSc Adult Nursing at Salford in 3 years’ time to then pursue my Master’s Degree in Advanced Nurse Practise. I have definitely been bitten by the learning bug!

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I enrolled at Ashton Sixth Form College in 2011 on the Foundation Degree in Education.

In my third year, I also enrolled on the Level 2 Forest School Assistant course and GCSE Maths.

Kerry Flynn BA (Hons) Degree in Education: First Class ——

The courses have provided me with the motivation and self-belief to become a lifelong learner. This motivation spurred on my enthusiasm for my chosen subjects and as a result I now take the initiative to update my own knowledge, understanding, skills and theory. This has impacted positively upon my own practice as a Teaching Assistant, I feel more confident within my role and have since recieved a promotion.

I am now exploring the options of Teacher Training which will increase earning potential.

Studying for my degree has been hard work, but worth it. I enjoyed being on the course with other people who also work in education. It provided rare opportunities to share ideas, talk about educational issues that affect us all, and share good practice.

The support I received from my tutors was brilliant. They were easy to contact and the tutorials were very helpful in the progression of my study.

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MEDIA PRODUCTION 0161 666 8215

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HND Media Production —— Duration 2 years, full time.

Who is the course for?

—— This course is aimed at people with a creative passion for TV, Film and Radio. The course allows you to gain fundamental skills working with video cameras, outside broadcast, TV studio and post-production workflows. On completion you will have the skills and qualifications to apply for jobs within the creative industries.

What does the course involve?

—— The course combines a balance of practical and theory through lectures, practical workshops, live briefs, guest speakers and creative projects, teaching you diverse modules such as:

Year One:      

Radio Production An intro to TV studio work Media Practice Experimental Film Factual Video Project Fictional Video Project

Year Two:      

Camera Technical Skills TV and Audio Project Research and Produce Production Management Showreel Project

What are the entry requirements?

—— • Advanced GCE (B/C 200 points).

• BTEC Diploma (DMM profile) related subject.

• Vocational A level (200 points) Media preferred.

• Irish Leaving Certificate or Scottish Highers (200 points).

• IB:24 points.

• Applications are welcome from mature students who have relevant experience and can demonstrate academic potential.

• Other previous qualifications and experience will be considered.

All offers are subject to interview.

What are the progression routes?

—— On successful completion of the HND, you will be able to demonstrate technical skills using a wide range of production and postproduction equipment, for example lighting, sound, camera, editing, as well as develop creative ideas in radio, TV and film. You will also be able to research, analyse and deliver arguments on key film and TV texts, which will enable you to seek employment within the TV and film industry with confidence and knowledge of relevant professional roles. You will have the skills to create and develop your own TV and film business. You may also wish to progress to BA (Hons) level within a similar subject area.

Who is the awarding institution?

—— University of Salford

How is the course assessed?

—— This course will be assessed through a range of formative and summative assessment methods, including: audio recordings for radio, both in studio and on location; video production; video editing; presentations and pitches; production folders, including preproduction documentation; essaywriting and online blogging.

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Foundation Year Art & Design Level 3 & 4 Diploma —— Duration 1 year, full time.

Who is the course for?

—— This course is designed for students who are keen to develop and hone their artistic skills and talents in a studio environment and caters for a variety of students with a broad range of professional and personal goals. It is ideal for those who: do not have the appropriate level of studio experience or knowledge to be accepted onto an undergraduate programme; have had a break in education and wish to return to study; or students who are unsure of which pathway is best suited to their artistic goals and abilities. This course is perfect for students who would like space to explore their own artistic spectrum with guidance and support to discover which route is best suited to their abilities, including graphic design, illustration, fashion design, fine art, photography, 3D design, etc., and to develop these skills over the course of the year, with the view of continuing on to an undergraduate degree programme.

What does the course involve?

—— This course comprises of a series of projects, workshop instructions and demonstrations, lectures, seminars, individual and group activities that will characterise your learning.

You will combine your studio practice and your personal interests, whilst also gaining an awareness and appreciation of the areas of art and design other than your chosen specialism. Over the course of the year, you will study:  Exploring Visual Language (Drawing and Materials)  Developing Specialist Practice  Individual Major Project  Exhibiting and Displaying Work

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How is the course assessed?

—— Assessment is based on the submission of coursework, the nature of which is determined by the projects set within a module. A variety of methods reflecting those which students will encounter during their continued undergraduate study is used during the Foundation Year Art and Design.

Assessment includes a variety of work, such as sketchbooks, presentations, written work, responding to briefs that support the building of a portfolio as well as the submission of coursework. Formative assessment is carried out in tutorials and critique situations and feedback will be provided to the student. Grades will be formulised at the end of the modules and all students will exhibit their work at an end of year exhibition.

What are the entry requirements?

—— • Preferably 200 UCAS points from level 3 qualifications, such as A levels or a BTEC National Diploma, BTEC Extended Diploma etc.

• Applications from mature students and students with non-academic qualifications are also welcome.

• Applicants will be required to attend a portfolio interview.

What are the progression routes?

—— The primary aim of this course is to prepare students for a relevant BA (Hons) award award in the arts areas. Students will apply through UCAS for relevant honours degrees at other institutions.

Who is the awarding body?

—— WJEC

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Foundation Year Health and Social Care —— Duration 1 year, full time.

Who is the course for?

—— This course is aimed at students interested in careers in health and/or social care and related disciplines, as well as: those who lack level 3 qualifications to access health and social care degree routes; those who wish to update or develop their skills; and those who wish to develop confidence at higher level study. This can be year one of a four year BSc degree programme in health and social care or a route for specific health or social care professions.

What does the course involve?

—— This course introduces the main themes of Health and social care, developing ability to work at the academic standard required to achieve knowledge and understanding of the broad issues of health and social care.

This course is made up of the following six modules:  Skills for Higher Education  Introduction to Health and Social Care Policy  Measuring Health and Wellness  Communication Skills for Personal Development  Introduction to Health Sciences  Health, Choice and the Lifespan How is the course assessed?

—— This course is assessed through a variety of methods. A portion will be assessed through portfolio, including individual, group practical and written work. Most modules adopt formative and summative assessment. Methods also include presentations, demonstrations, essays and research projects.

What are the entry requirements?

—— • Be able to demonstrate your ability and capacity to write at appropriate

level for your programme (identified ALS needs that may impact on written English skills will be taken into account).

• Be able to demonstrate your capacity to study at an appropriate level for your programme (assessed by application, interview and performance in previous study).

• Applications are welcome from people with a variety of qualifications, skills and experience and are individually assessed.

• It is recommended that you have a GCSE grade C or above in Maths, English and Science.

• Applicants for whom English is an additional Language will require a current IELTS 6.0 score, with no single score lower than 5.5.

What are the progression routes?

—— On successful completion of this course, students may automatically continue to the BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care at Staffordshire University. However, providing relevant entry criteria are met and following a successful interview, students may also progress to other undergraduate or university, such as professional awards at Staffordshire Social Work, Nursing, Midwifery, Paramedic Science and Operating Department Practice. Students may also apply for relevant honours degrees at other institutions.

Who is the awarding institution?

—— Staffordshire University

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HOW TO APPLY AND FIND OUT MORE 0161 666 8215

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You can request an information and application pack by calling our dedicated Admissions Team by telephoning 0161 666 8215 or emailing HEadmissions@asfc.ac.uk.

You can come along to one of our Higher Education Information Evenings where you can speak to the tutors face to face. To find out when these evenings are, simply log onto www.asfc.ac.uk. ________ Apply

Please contact the Admissions Team on 0161 666 8215 who will guide you through the application process for the course you wish to study.

You will also receive a step by step guide to the application process with your information and application pack.

When your application has been received by the Admissions Team you will receive an acknowledgement letter.

Interview You will be required to attend an interview for all our courses. When the interview will take place will depend on the course you have applied for.

Course Offers

The outcome of your interview will be communicated by Ashton Sixth Form College in writing or via UCAS. This will include key information, such as whether or not the offer is subject to any academic conditions (i.e. grades).

Your Response

You need to accept or reject the offer by returning the Course Offer Acceptance Form where you are agreeing to enter into a contract with the college.

You may need to accept or reject your offer via UCAS Track depending on the course you have applied for. You will be advised of this by the Admissions Team.

What Happens Next?

We look forward to welcoming you as a student of Ashton Sixth Form College. In the meantime, should you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact our Admissions Team on 0161 666 8215 or email HEadmissions@asfc.ac.uk.

www.asfc.ac.uk

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MONEY MATTERS 0161 666 8215

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Many people are concerned about the increasing costs of completing a university course. However, with our competitive course fees and the high level of financial support available, studying at a higher level may be more affordable than you think. ________ There are a number of loans and grants available through the Student Loans Company. If you are eligible for a grant, this is non-refundable unless you leave your course early. Loans do need to be paid back but not until you are earning a minimum of £21,000 per year.

Your monthly repayments will be based on your income, not how much you have borrowed, and you’ll only pay back 9% of your income over £21,000.

Your employer will automatically take repayments from your salary if your income, before tax, is over the UK threshold. If you are self employed you will pay through self assessment.

First class honours students

The example below shows what you might repay each month depending on your income.

Income each year before tax

Monthly income

Monthly repayment

Up to £21,000 £24,000 £27,000 £30,000 £33,000 £36,000

Up to £1,750 £2000 £2,250 £2,500 £2,750 £3,000

£0 £22 £45 £67 £90 £112

Part time students are only eligible to apply for a tuition fee loan but full time students can apply for the following in addition to this: Parents’ Learning Allowance* Maintenance Loan Childcare grant*

Adult Dependants’ grant* Disabled Students’ Allowance *Means tested

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WHY STUDY UNIVERSITY COURSES WITH US? 0161 666 8215

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In circumstances where you wish to withdraw or intermit, the following applies: ________ • If you withdraw, intermit or if you do not commence a programme of study within the first two weeks of the published start date of the award (including induction week), you will normally be refunded the tuition fee paid, minus any deposit.

• If you withdraw from your programme of study or intermit after the first two weeks, even if you have not taken the opportunity to attend, you will normally receive a refund based on the table below.

• If you are a continuing student enrolled on a Staffordshire University programme, have completed e-enrolment and subsequently decide not to start the new academic year, you will be charged 25% of the tuition fee unless you notify the University and the College by 17th September of your decision to withdraw.

• All tuition fees are paid directly to the University or College on your behalf by the Student Loans Company. If you are self-funding you will be required to pay the College or University as directed by admissions.

Date of withdrawal

Fee Liability

Before 19th January 2017

25% of tuition fee

On or after 19th January 2017 and before 7th April 2017

50% of tuition fee

On or after 7th April 2017

100% of tuition fee

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SUPPORT AND FACILITIES 0161 666 8215

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Additional Learning Support

All students undertake an initial assessment that assists with the identification of additional support needs. Students can get a more detailed assessment of their needs through our Additional Learning Support Team. Additional learning support is available to all students who have specific learning difficulties or disabilities. We ensure the support provided meets the needs of the students.

For more information on the support offered you can contact Nigel Rennison, Inclusive Learning Manager by emailing nigel.rennison@asfc.ac.uk or calling 0161 666 8215.

Academic Study Skills

The College is committed to ensuring that all of our university level students develop academic study skills.

All courses have academic study skills modules to help you get started.

We also offer one-to-one academic skills sessions for students, which include:

• • • • •

Academic Writing Skills Writing critically Reading critically Referencing Punctuation

Academic study skills advice and materials are also available through the College’s Virtual Learning Environment and our partners’ learning platforms.

www.asfc.ac.uk

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STUDENT VOICE 0161 666 8215

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Student Voice

The Higher Education and Skills Team seek feedback from students throughout the year and in a number of ways. This gives students the ability to influence and shape the enhancement of learning opportunities. Here are a few of the ways in which we gain feedback.

________

Student Ambassador

At the start of each academic year we recruit a team of Student Ambassadors.

Our Student Ambassadors participate in fully funded bespoke leadership training to prepare them for their role. They will proactively gather and voice feedback from the student body and inform fellow students of actions taken by the College in response to their feedback.

Surveys

We are interested in all aspects of our students’ experiences with us from the first point of contact, during your studies, through to graduation and beyond. Students will be asked to complete surveys to share their views and experiences with us. The responses are acted upon and a ‘You Said, Our Response’ document is produced and shared with students as well as published on the website to keep them informed of college developments.

The Student Ambassadors will also inform fellow students of actions taken by the College in response to their feedback.

Focus Groups

Focus groups provide the Higher Education and Skills Team with qualitative feedback on a range of student life matters. Students are asked questions in an interactive group setting where they are free to share opinions and ideas with staff and fellow students. We share outcomes and actions from this through Ambassadors and the ‘You Said, Our Response’ document.

Staff

We have an open door policy and encourage all members of our HE community to talk to the teachers and the administration team to request support or to discuss any matters that need addressing.

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We have excellent partnerships with universities and are proud to work with our main university partners, Staffordshire University and the University of Salford. ________ We offer a local, affordable way to obtain a university qualification.

We offer outstanding facilities, services and resources to our students in addition to those available at our partner universities.

We offer full time, part time and fast track courses with flexible options to fit into students’ work and family life.

We are Matrix accredited which guarantees the high standards of information, advice and guidance from our admissions team.

We offer exceptional levels of support to ensure student success.

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School Direct – Primary and Secondary Teacher Training —— Duration 1 year, full time.

What is school direct and who is the course for?

—— School Direct is a school-led teacher training programme that gives you the chance to learn 'on the job' in a school.

You will work as part of the teaching team from day one, learning from experienced, practising colleagues and immediately putting your new skills into practice.

This award is designed to allow graduates with an appropriate honours degree to train at postgraduate level to become a primary or secondary school teacher. You will leave this Teacher Training course with a PGCE qualification and a recommendation for QTS (Qualified Teacher Status).

What does the course involve?

—— You will complete teaching practice in 2 schools or colleges during the course. The programme will also include a small number of observational days in settings with older and younger children. The course requires considerable time commitment, this includes all class contact, as well as independent study and preparation. The balance of time between the various components of university and school-based work varies over the year.

This course is made up of following four modules.

These modules are delivered 1 day per week in college:  Learning and Teaching of Subject  Subject Knowledge for Learning and Teaching  Education and Professional Issues This module is covered 4 days per week in your placement:  Teaching Practice

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What are the entry requirements?

—— The entry requirements vary depending on the pathway you wish to take. For both pathways you must: • Already possess, or expect to be awarded, the equivalent of a UK Honours • Degree. Ideally this should be at 2:1 or above, although a 2:2 may be acceptable in some circumstances, for secondary this must be in the subject area you wish to teach.

• A GCSE grade A*‐ C in Maths and English (Science for primary).

• Complete and pass a Professional Skills Test for numeracy and literacy.

• Successfully complete a Disclosure and Barring Service check and a Health check.

Please call the Admissions Team on 0161 6668215 for further details.

How to apply —— Applications are made through UCAS. For more information on how to apply and the subjects we offer please visit www.ucas.com/ucas/teacher-training.

What are the progression routes?

—— Successful trainees will receive their PGCE with Masters credits and recommendation for QTS from Staffordshire University. Once you have completed your PGCE, you will then be able to start applying for teaching jobs.

Who is the awarding institution?

—— Staffordshire University

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Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PCET)/Certificate in Education (PCET) —— Duration 1 year, full time.

Who is the course for?

—— This award is aimed at those wishing to gain the skills, knowledge and qualifications to secure a ‘full’ teaching role in the Post Compulsory Education and Training sector, such as within: • further education colleges • sixth form colleges • school sixth forms • work-based training • adult and community education and training.

A ‘full role’ is defined as the delivery of teaching or training that involves: the planning (e.g. schemes of work and lesson planning) and the delivery of teaching and learning activity; the assessment of learners; and related student support.

What does the course involve?

—— The course is designed to develop your professional capabilities in becoming a self-evaluative and reflective educational professional. You will develop your planning, resourcing, managing, assessing and evaluating skills in your specialist area and grow your understanding of post secondary education and how you might play an active role in its future development.

This is a modular award, studied at Ashton Sixth Form College. You will be required to attend lectures and have secured, prior to enrolment, at least 100 hours of teaching in your chosen area across the course.

PGCE (PCET) and Certificate in Education (PCET) will cover the same modules and will complete assignments at level 4 and 5, however PGCE (PCET) will also cover work at level 7. The modules of the course include:









Teaching, Learning and Assessment in Post Compulsory Education and Training (PCET) Theories, Principles and Models in Post Compulsory Education and Training (PCET) Developing Teaching, Learning and Assessment in Post Compulsory Education and Training (PCET) Action Research and Wider Professional Practice in Post Compulsory Education and Training (PCET)

How is the course assessed?

—— The Certificate in Education (PCET) and PGCE (PCET) are assessed through a range of formative and summative assessment methods, which include assignment writing, presentations and observations.

What are the entry requirements?

—— • For the PGCE you must hold a degree in the subject area you wish to teach.

• For the Certificate in Education you must hold a minimum of a level 3 qualification in the subject area you wish to teach and have relevant vocational experience.

• GCSE in English at Grade C or above or level 2 equivalent.

• Preferably a GCSE in maths at Grade C or above or level 2 equivalent.

• Applicants must have access to a minimum of 100 hours of teaching practice over the duration of the course.

• Applicants require a subject mentor who is experienced in the same or similar subject/vocational area.

What are the progression routes?

—— On successful completion of the Certificate in Education (PCET), you may wish to top up to a full degree and on successful completion of the PGCE (PCET), you may like to progress to studying at masters level.

Who is the awarding institution?

—— Staffordshire University

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Foundation Degree in Education __ Duration 2 years, part time fast track.

Who __ is the course for?

This course is for anyone who is currently in a learning support situation, for example teaching assistants, bilingual support assistants, learning mentors, cover supervisors, PE and sports coaches, voluntary helpers and applicants who have achieved HLTA, in any phase of education from early years to further education.

What __ does the course involve?

College attendance of four hours per week and at least four hours per week in the relevant work place. You will also be expected to undertake self-directed study.

The modules have a wide and flexible content, adaptable to your needs, while providing an essential core of academic understanding. The programme will develop your subject knowledge; work-based knowledge; work-based skills; and study skills in a coherent package. In particular, the course aims to provide learning support assistants in specialist roles with the opportunity to reflect on their own particular situation. This course is made up of the following eight modules:  Personal and Professional Development  Learning and Development  Behaviour for Learning  Supporting Learning and Inclusion  Professional and Career Development  Developing Educational Practice within the Inclusive Framework  Learning and the Inclusive Curriculum  Action Research How __ is the course assessed?

Programme and module outcomes are formally assessed through a range of tasks and activities, such as creation of resources to support learning or reflection on organisational practice, which ask you to link learning in the workplace to the taught programme. For example, as an Education Practitioner, you will have the opportunity

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to be assessed against an individual action plan identifying your strengths and areas for development in relation to your skills, knowledge and understanding. You will also be assessed on your understanding of: learner motivation and rewards; emotional intelligence; and the effective learning environment.

What are the entry requirements? __ • A minimum of three GCSEs grade C or above, including English and Maths or a relevant level 2 equivalent. (A Key Skills

qualification is not generally considered to be equivalent in content and level of demand, but if you do hold the qualification your application may still be considered in combination with a consideration of the other entry criteria. Level 2 Maths and English will not be sufficient to progress to QTS or EYTS).

• Be able to demonstrate current level 2 English writing skills to support your ability and capacity to both write and study at Level 4 (assessed by application form, performance in previous study, written assessment and references).

• 120 UCAS points from at least one Level 3 qualification, e.g. A Level, BTEC National Diploma, BTEC Extended Diploma, NVQ Level 3.

• Proof of a current DBS disclosure or a Declaration of Criminal Convictions.

• Employment, either paid or voluntary, supporting learning in an educational setting for at least four hours per week, arranged prior to the commencement of the course.

• Must be aged 18 or over.

• Applicants for whom English is a second language and who do not possess a level 2 qualification require a current IELTS 6.0 score, with no single score lower than 5.5.

• Letter from employer in support of work based activities.

What __ are the progression routes?

On successful completion of your foundation degree, you can then top-up to a full BA (Hons) in Education by studying a further 120 credits at level 6 over one year. Other opportunities for progression may be available depending on your field of work, the phase of education that you work in and other qualifications.

Who is the awarding institution? __ Staffordshire University

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above, including English and Maths or a relevant Level 2 equivalent. (A Key Skills

qualification is not generally considered to be equivalent in content and level of demand, but if you do hold this qualification your application may still be considered in combination with a consideration of the other entry criteria. Level 2 Maths and English will not be sufficient to progress to QTS or EYTS).

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BA (Hons) in Education (Top-up) —— Duration 1 year, part time.

Who is the course for?

—— This course is for anyone who already holds 240 credits in a relevant field, such as a Foundation Degree in Education, where they were engaged in work with children and young people. It is designed for people employed in the field of education in either a paid or voluntary capacity.

What does the course involve?

—— College attendance of four hours per week and ten hours per week in the relevent workplace setting.

This course is made up of the following four modules:  Professional Development Portfolio  Changes and Developments in Education  Doing Education Differently  Individual Research Project - Dissertation How is the course assessed?

—— This course is assessed through a range of formative and summative assessment methods, including assignment writing, a research programme dissertation and submission of a professional development portfolio.

What are the entry requirements?

—— • A minimum of three GCSEs grade C or

Be able to demonstrate current Level 2 English writing skills to support your ability and capacity to both write and study at Level 6 (assessed by application form,

perfomance in previous study, written assessment and if applicable reference from your previous place of study).

• 240 credits from a relevant study programme.

• Proof of a current DBS disclosure or a Declaration of Criminal Convictions.

• Employment, either paid or voluntary, supporting learning in an educational setting for at least ten hours per week, arranged prior to the commencement of the course.

• Applications from mature students are welcome and encouraged.

• Must be aged 18 or over.

• Applicants for whom English is a second language and who do not possess a Level 2 qualification require a current IELTS 6.0 score, with no single score lower than 5.5.

• Letter from employer in support of work based activities.

What are the progression routes?

—— On successful completion, you may wish to progress onto a masters degree in a related subject. Many learners completing this course will pursue a career in teaching and progress onto programmes such as the Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).

Those aspiring to teach need to research the Initial Teacher Training (ITT) requirements for their sector and subject area: www.education.gov.uk/get-into-teaching and www.excellencegateway.org.uk/node/57 are good places to start.

Who is the awarding institution?

—— Staffordshire University

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Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies —— Duration 3 years, part time.

Who is the course for?

—— This course is for those who are currently working with or wishing to pursue a career with children to build on their knowledge and experience through study at a higher level. This course aims to enhance and increase understanding in students’ professional roles.

What does the course involve?

—— College attendance of one evening per week and at least 10 hours per week in the relevant workplace. The emphasis of the programme is based on learning in the workplace and recognises that many applicants will have gained knowledge and understanding necessary to undertake study at a higher level through developing professional awareness in the context of work.

This course is made up of the following eight modules:

encourages learners to reflect on their learning experiences both in the classroom and in the workplace.

What are the entry requirements?

—— • 3 GCSEs grade C or above, including English and Maths or a relevant Level 2 equivalent. (A Key Skills qualification is not

generally considered to be equivalent in content and level of demand, but if you do hold this qualification your application may still be considered in combination with a consideration of the other entry criteria. Level 2 Maths and English will not be sufficient to progress to QTS or EYTS).

• Be able to demonstrate current Level 2 English writing skills to support your ability and capacity to both write and study at Level 4 (assessed by application form, performance in previous study, written assessment and if applicable a reference).

• Preferably 120 UCAS points from at least one Level 3 qualification, e.g. A Level, BTEC National Diploma.

• Proof of a current DBS disclosure or a Declaration of Criminal Convictions.

• Minimum of 12 months of post qualifying experience at Level 3 in EY/Playwork.

• Employment with paid/voluntary supporting learning in an educational setting (EY-FE) for a minimum of 10 hours per week (arranged prior to course).  Practitioners’ Personal, Professional and • Applications from mature students are Academic practice both welcomed and encouraged.  The Developing Child: A Holistic Approach • Must be aged 18 or over.  The Planning Cycle • Applicants for whom English is a second  Inclusive and Enabling Environments language and who do not possess a level  Working with Young Children 2 qualification require a current IELTS 6.0  Leading Change in the Early Years score, with no single score lower than 5.5.  Safeguarding and Young Children’s • You must also provide a letter from Welfare employer in support of work based activities.  Early Childhood: Global Perspectives on What are the progression routes?

Contemporary Issues —— How is the course assessed?

On successful completion of your foundation —— degree you can top up to a full BA (Hons) This is a modular course in which each in Early Childhood Studies or Education by learner studies eight modules, each of studying an extra 120 credits at level 6. which is assessed through a variety of of assessment methods. These include Who is the awarding institution?

—— essays, reports, presentations and Staffordshire University portfolios. Assessment is continuous and

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BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies —— Duration 1 year, part time.

(Top-up)

Who is the course for?

—— This course is designed for students who are currently working with children and possess 240 credits from a relevant qualification, for example a Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies. This course is aimed at students who would like to build on their knowledge and experience whilst topping up to a full BA (Hons) Degree. It is designed for people working with children in either a paid or voluntary capacity for at least two days per week in an early years setting.

Students can enrol on the course from other institutions with differing foundation degrees.

What does the course involve?

—— You will attend college one evening per week.

This course is made up of the following four modules:  Advanced Early Childhood Development  Leadership and Teams  The Reflective Practitioner  Independent Research Project How is the course assessed?

—— This course is assessed through a range of formative and summative assessment methods, including a research tasks, reflective accounts and group debates.

What are the entry requirements?

—— • A minimum of three GCSEs grade C or above, including English and Maths or a relevant Level 2 equivalent. (A Key

Skills qualification is not generally considered to be equivalent in content and level of demand, but if you do hold this qualification your application may still be considered in

combination with a consideration of the other entry criteria. Level 2 Maths and English will not be sufficient to progress to QTS or EYTS).

• 240 credits from a relevant study programme.

• Be able to demonstrate current Level 2 English writing skills to support your ability and capacity to both write and study at Level 6 (assessed by application form, performance in previous study, written assessment and if applicable reference from your previous place of study).

• Proof of a current DBS disclosure or a Declaration of Criminal Convictions.

• Employment, either paid or voluntary, supporting learning in an educational setting for at least two full days per week, arranged prior to the commencement of the course.

• Three years post qualifying experience, paid or voluntary.

• Applications from mature students are welcomed and encouraged.

• Must be aged 18 or over.

• Applicants for whom English is a second language and who do not possess a Level 2 qualification require a current IELTS 6.0 score, with no single score lower than 5.5.

• You must provide a letter from employer in support of work based activities.

What are the progression routes?

—— A BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies offers access to a wide range of career and academic options. For example, you may progress to employment within family and children centres, care support, educational administration and management, play work and learning support. You may also wish to gain a Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) by progressing onto a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or Schools Direct programme route. (Level 2 maths and English

will not be sufficient to progress to QTS or EYTS).

You could also take a Masters Degree in Early Childhood or another relevant field.

—— is the awarding institution?

Who Staffordshire University

www.asfc.ac.uk