west cheshire college access, higher education and professional qualifications prospectus 2014/15

Access, Higher Education and Professional Qualifications Learning Opportunities2014 -15

west-cheshire.ac.uk

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Contents

Invest in your future 03Studying with us 04Our Student Union 05Higher Education Awards 06Information, Advice and Guidance 07Access to Higher Education 08Higher National Certificates/Higher National Diploma 10Foundation Degrees 16Teaching and Education Qualifications 20Part-time Professional Qualifications 23Full-time Level 4 Diploma 26How to apply 29Student finance 30

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Invest in your future

Are you serious about getting a Higher Education qualification under your belt? Perhaps you are looking for a career change or want to excel in your current job role? Do you want to go into Higher Education but feel like you can’t afford it or you don’t have the necessary qualifications to succeed?

We help all students in all situations, so if you have asked yourself any of these questions then West Cheshire College can help you achieve your goal. Invest in your future today and find out what the College can do for you.

West Cheshire College combines the highest standards of tuition and work-based skills development with a flexible and responsive approach. The College offers fantastic facilities, high quality teaching and has a great reputation amongst employers in the region. If you want to excel in your career and enhance your prospects we have a course for you. You can be sure that we will provide the whole package: excellent teaching, state-of-the-art facilities and great student support.

Our Higher Education courses are widely respected and cover a range of subject areas. We offer full and part-time courses that suit every learner including: Access to Higher Education Programmes, Foundation Degrees, Higher National Certificates and Diplomas, Level 4 Diplomas and part-time professional courses from leading professional awarding bodies (including CIPD, CMI, ILM, CILEX, AAT, CPCAB and CIMA).

Our two campuses in Chester and Ellesmere Port incorporate top-class facilities and learning for a range of vocational areas. You can take full advantage of new teaching technologies and facilities such as restaurants, cafés, a theatre, shops, a salon and spa, a dance studio, and a stunning events space. All this makes the College more than just a place to learn, it makes it a lively, vibrant and fun place to be. We are here to offer help and support throughout your time with us from the application process through to graduation.

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Studying with Us

Students are now faced with making significant upfront investments in their future. Now, more than ever, you will want to weigh up your different options carefully. Applying for university or Higher Education can seem like a daunting prospect, it is challenging and there is a lot of information that can at times be confusing. At West Cheshire College we can assure you that we will help you find the best fit for your study needs. We will be there every step of the way guiding you in the right direction so that you can access all the relevant information available and succeed in your studies.

West Cheshire College can offer you flexible employment related courses that will not only improve your employability and career prospects but can help reduce the amount of student debt you could incur.

Whilst you are at the College you’ll gain relevant experience in the workplace, either with your employer, on a placement or in our own real working environments. Your knowledge will be completely up-to-date with what is happening right now in your chosen industry. We have the experience, the contacts and the facilities for you to get the most out of your time with us.

As an associate college of the University of Chester we can also offer those undertaking a Foundation Degree awarded by the University a range of additional benefits such as links with University departments, interactive taster events, access to Sharepoint (the University’s online learning resource) and much more.


Our Student Union

This is a great time to join West Cheshire College and we are sure you’ll look forward to coming to learn in a place with excellent facilities, supportive and friendly staff and a real commitment to helping its learners achieve their full potential.

The Student Union works hard to make sure students have an exciting time at West Cheshire College. We organise many social events and trips and co-ordinate activities to support local and national charities - giving everyone a chance to join in. The Student Union also provides valuable support to students if they are having problems, enabling them to tap into all the help available. Membership of the Union offers many perks too. Members even get an NUS Extra card (a discount card available to all students). Another role of the Student Union is to give students a voice in the running of the College. We help bridge the gap between students and staff by organising focus groups, which enable students to provide valuable feedback.

If you want to find out more about the Student Union please contact 01244 656555 or email [email protected]

Student Union President, Luke Bailey

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Every year West Cheshire College holds its annual Higher Education and Professional Qualification Awards ceremony to celebrate the students’ graduation and achievements.

Over 80 students attended last year’s ceremony which was held at West Cheshire College’s Ellesmere Port Campus. The certificates were presented to students by Olympic silver medallist swimmer Mark Foster.

Mark Foster and Student of the Year Elizabeth Gerrard.

Higher Education and Professional Qualification Awards Ceremony


Information, Advice and Guidance

College AdvisersWe have our own dedicated Information, Advice and Guidance Advisers who are professionally qualified and are available to support all learners and anyone who is interested in becoming a learner. They are here to help you achieve your education and career aims and offer impartial advice and guidance on a range of learning opportunities available as well as confidential support. If you would like to apply for university, our advisers offer step-by-step guidance through the entire process. They can also support you with employability skills, including interview techniques, C.V. building, job searches and application forms, and they are knowledgeable on current local labour market information.

Finance and Welfare AdvisersThe Finance and Welfare Team have a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping students to access financial support. The team can provide in-depth information

and support to current and prospective students on a range of areas including childcare, transport, general living expenses and course costs.

Learner Support and InclusionWe actively promote diversity and inclusion through the delivery of personalised and person-centered learning. The College is very proud of the additional learning support offered to Higher Education students which is delivered by dedicated professionals within the following specialist areas: ADHD, Autistic Spectrum, Deaf, Deafened and Hard of Hearing, Dyslexia, Epilepsy, Irlen Syndrome, Medical Conditions, Mental Health, Physical Disabilities, Specific Learning Difficulties and Visual Impairments. Staff offer one-to-one teaching, advisory, and mentoring support. The person centered support gives disabled learners a stake and a voice that is listened to and acted upon so that any adjustments within the learning and teaching environment can be made.

We provide advice and support about Disabled Students’ Allowance (a package of support for disabled students in Higher Education). We can also arrange appointments with local national-accredited assessment centres. More information about DSA can be found on the Direct Gov website: www.direct.gov.uk

and diversityPromoting equality

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Access to Higher Education

Are you looking to develop new skills to boost your prospects and gain entry to Higher Education? Do you want a change of career and so need a higher-level qualification? West Cheshire College offers the Access to Higher Education Diploma that will help you gain the qualification you need to go in to Higher Education.

Access to Higher EducationLevel 3OCNWMR Diploma This Level 3 programme provides appropriate preparation and a recognised qualification to enable students to progress to Higher Education. It aims to provide a flexible learning opportunity and enable you to develop skills in specialised areas. The course will offer pathways in:

• Education Professions

• Health and Social Care Professions (including Nursing and Midwifery)

• Applied Science

• Social Sciences

• Art and Design

• General Route (Encompassing Social Sciences/Work and Education pathways)

All routes will be chosen before commencing the programme. Progression from the Access Diploma includes Foundation Degrees, HNC/Ds or university. All routes are linked to College-based HNC/Ds and/or Foundation Degrees to offer you a smooth progression on to Higher Education programmes.

During the course you are encouraged to undertake vocationally related work experience which will strengthen your UCAS application. The College can help you find this.

Duration Full-time for 1 year.

Entry Requirements You need to be aged 19 or over and have Maths and English at GCSE grade C. An interview is required for this course.


Access to Higher EducationCase StudyShelley Evans

I joined College on the Access to Higher Education course as I wanted to achieve my lifetime ambition of going to university.

I was a young mum so didn’t have the chance to go to university when I was younger. So when my youngest daughter started high school, it was the ideal opportunity for me to go back into education.

I started on the Pre-access to Higher Education Level 2 course as I had to re-sit my GCSEs in Maths, English, Chemistry, Physics and Biology - plus I also studied GCSE Psychology and Sociology. I was so proud of myself when I passed all of my exams in the first year and I didn’t hesitate to continue with my studies.

I then started on the Access to Higher Education Level 3 course and opted for the Education Professions pathway which focused on geography, history and teaching.

After successfully completing the two years at College, I was then offered a place at University of Chester to study BSc in Geography and Natural Hazard Management and I’m currently in my second year.

The College course really helped me to do well in my degree as it provided me with an excellent foundation of knowledge. I found the transition from College to university really easy and I settled in very quickly.

I’m really enjoying my degree and the best thing about the course is that I’ve had the opportunity to travel. I’ve recently completed a geomorphology project in Spain studying soil erosion. In October I’m travelling to Naples to study the risk of the volcano Mount Vesuvius.

I would definitely recommend the Access course to other people. For me, it was the best decision I have ever made as it helped me achieve my dream of going to university.

I was nervous starting at College after so long out of education, but the tutors were so supportive and gave me a lot of advice.

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Higher National Certificates and Higher National Diplomas (HNC/HND)

The College offers a range of Higher National Diplomas and Certificates. BTEC Higher Nationals have been redeveloped to provide a defined progression route towards nationally-accredited work-based qualifications, based on the needs of employers and professional bodies, and relate to national occupational standards where appropriate. These HNDs have been accredited by the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF). You will be able to progress from the Level 4 HNC to the Level 5 HND and further on to a degree. These qualifications provide meaningful, coherent and specially focused programmes of study for full and part-time learners and have been developed to provide progression routes to study and/or to provide career development opportunities for those already in work. They provide a real opportunity for those who may be seeking an alternative to university and who wish to earn while they learn.

Duration Full-time over 2 years or at your own pace for up to 5 years.

Entry Requirements Maths and English at GCSE grade C and successful completion of a Level 3 BTEC National Diploma, A Levels or another Level 3 qualification. Applicants with work experience will be considered on individual merit. It is possible to progress to an Honours Degree or higher-level professional qualifications with a full HND.


Pathways are available in:

HNC/D Performing Arts Become part of our new and innovative producing production company as a Dancer, Actor, Technician, Designer and/or Events Manager. On our Performing Arts HND you are part of a working Production team creating, organising, performing and managing all manner of events and productions including musicals, fashion shows, live theatre, pantomime, tv/film projects, dance shows and other innovative work. We are able to offer a unique package whereby a student can study a particular pathway e.g. drama, technical

Drama This course will equip you with the knowledge, understanding and skills you need to succeed in a range of positions. You will study modules including Creative Arts Professional Practice, Creative Arts Research Skills, Theatre in Education, Production Skills, Applied Contemporary Performance Practice, Development of Acting Skills and Devising Performance.

Technical Theatre Areas of study will include: Creative Arts Research Skills and Professional Practice, Managing a Creative Business, Set Design Realisation, Small Scale Touring, Lighting Design, Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation, Stage Properties and Sound Design.

Dance You will study a range of modules which include: Commercial Dance, Small Scale Touring, Contemporary Dance Techniques and Performance, Site-specific Performance, Dance and Health, Research Skills and Performing Arts Workshop Leadership.

Events You will study and work as an Event Manager, Front-of-House Operative and Entertainment and Venue Manager which will help you generate a wide-ranging portfolio. Areas of study include: Creative Arts Research Skills, Marketing the Creative Arts, Production Skills for Performance, Facilities Operation in the Arts and Business Event Management.

Programmes available at West Cheshire College from September 2014

theatre, events or dance, or you can take a unit across any of the four pathways meaning you can leave the course with a rounded knowledge of all aspects of the entertainment and theatre industry.

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HNC/D Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical and Manufacturing)

This course is designed to provide a specialist vocational programme offering strong sector-related practical skills alongside the development of knowledge and understanding. It provides a thorough grounding in key concepts and practical skills and is nationally recognised by employers. You will be required to study core modules - including Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation, Engineering Science and Analytical Methods for Engineers, plus 5 other Specialist units depending on your engineering discipline. On completion learners are able to progress into employment.

HNC/D Biology This course is designed to equip individuals with knowledge, understanding and skills for success in a range of laboratory synthesis and analytical skills. You will study core modules - including Cell Biology, Biochemistry of Macromolecules and Metabolic Pathways, Physiology of Cellular Systems in Animals, Laboratory Techniques for Applied Biology, Medical Microbiology and Human Health and Nutrition.


For How to Apply and Higher Education Finance information please see pages 29 and 30.

HNC/D Art and Design This area of study is for anyone wishing to develop their creative skills in art and design to a higher-level and will provide you with an exciting opportunity to develop your knowledge and individual interests within the creative arts field. This stimulating, hands-on course comprises practical workshops, lectures and gallery visits. It provides a solid grounding in the disciplines required for effective creative practice including opportunities to work with more traditional design methods. You will later be given the opportunity to demonstrate your abilities in a range of techniques and skills in your chosen specialism. The course will culminate in an exhibition which will give you the opportunity to showcase your work in a professional setting.

HNC/D Travel and Tourism This qualification gives you the opportunity to progress to a management position in a wide range of service sector industries. You will gain knowledge and practical experience through the study of topics such as: Investigating the Travel and Tourism Sector and Resort and Tour Operations Management. You will be assessed through group projects, presentations and written assignments. You will develop a range of skills and techniques that will enable you to progress in to employment.

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HNC/D Creative and Digital MediaIf you desire a career working in the exciting world of creative media, whether in the Game Development or Broadcast Journalism industries, this course will help you on your way. Combining key knowledge modules with a range of practical projects, students on the HNC/D in Creative Media Production will gain extensive hands-on experience and create an impressive portfolio to help secure their dream job or university top-up place. Specialist pathways are available in the following disciplines:

• Games Development

• Broadcast Journalism

An HNC/D will support individuals who are employed or entering employment in the Creative Media Production industry and can help lead to a variety of jobs, from Game Artist or Reporter, through to TV/Film Director, Camera Operator or TV Presenter.

HNC/D Hospitality Management This HNC/D aims to equip individuals with knowledge, understanding and skills for success in a range of positions in Hospitality Management. You will develop skills in: Marketing in Hospitality, Conference and Banqueting Management, Hospitality Contract and Event Management, Planning and Managing Food Production and Beverage Service. You will be assessed through case studies, projects, presentations, group work, assignments and reports.


HNC/D BusinessYou will develop practical and higher-level skills in a range of business modules. Typical modules include Business Environment, Managing Financial Resources and Decisions, Organisations and Behaviour and Marketing Principles. Development of a range of skills and techniques will enable you to progress directly in to employment. You will be assessed through case studies, projects, presentations, group work, assignments and reports.

HNC/D Public Services This HNC/D will make an ideal progression route for students who want to study Public Services at a higher-level. A number of organisations such as the police and fire service favour applications from older candidates with more life experience. This qualification will provide an ideal opportunity to expand and develop your knowledge and skills during this transitional stage before applying to join one of the public services. In the first year you will complete 120 credits to make up the HNC in Public Services, studying subjects such as Organisation and Behaviour, Psychology of Criminal Behaviour, Emergency Planning and Outdoor Skills. On successful completion of year one you will go on to year two (HND) to complete a research project and will study Government Decision Making and Justice. The HND will allow you to progress to university or in to employment.

For How to Apply and Higher Education Finance information please see pages 29 and 30.

HNC/D Advanced Practice in Work with Children and Families This course is aimed at Early Years/Educational Practitioners and is designed to provide a specialist vocational programme linked to professional body requirements and national occupational standards with a strong work-related emphasis. It is a key progression path for BTEC National or other related Level 3 qualifications. The course will provide you with opportunities to focus on the development of higher-level skills and techniques.

HNC/D Construction and the Built Environment This course has been developed with career progression in mind as well as recognition from professional bodies including: Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT), the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). A wide selection of career opportunities in construction is possible from successful completion of this course. To obtain the qualification you have to successfully complete eight units, of which four are core and four optional.

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Foundation Degrees

Foundation Degrees can be the first stepping stone in to Higher Education. They are designed to help you gain experience in a particular area of work, as well as giving you general vocational and life skills that are useful in any type of job. They are qualifications awarded by a university, like other degrees, however, Foundation Degree courses are designed with a specific area of work in mind so you can work and study with the help of employers from that industry. Foundation Degrees are flexible employment related courses so it is possible to study in a way that suits you. Whether you’re looking to change career, return to work or to boost your career prospects, Foundation Degrees offer a route into Higher Education for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Foundation Degree in Fitness and Health Kick start your career! If you love sport and want a successful career in this industry then this Foundation Degree is perfect for you. During this flexible employment related degree you will cover: Anatomy and Physiology, Health and Fitness, Assessment and Monitoring, Learning at Work, Motivation and Behaviour Change, the Fitness Industry Health Perspectives and Introduction to Continuing Professional Development. You will study two years at West Cheshire College and then you have the option to continue on to a third year to achieve a BA (Hons) degree at the University of Chester (Warrington Campus).The CYQ Gym Instructor Level 2 qualification is offered as part of year 1 and the CYQ Personal Trainer Level 3 qualification is offered as part of year 2. There will be an extra fee of £300 on to the course fee to cover the costs of exam and assessment fees.

Duration Full time over 2 years or part time over 4 years.

Entry Requirements Ideally you will be interested in fitness and sport and will be looking for either a career within the fitness industry or you may want to go on to teach sport. To meet the requirements of the course you will undertake a work-based project. If you are not employed in the industry the College can help you find a suitable work placement.


Foundation Degree in Fitness and Health

Case StudyRob Herbert

I came to College to study a Foundation Degree in Fitness and Health as I wanted to get the right skills to secure a job in the industry.

Before starting the Foundation Degree, I was working three part-time jobs. I saw this qualification as a chance to gain a steady job in something I’m passionate about.

Topics included physiology and looking at how fitness can help different people depending on their age, gender or if they had any disabilities. We also ran gym classes and delivered training sessions through our placement.

The tutors were really helpful and we had a lot of one-on-one sessions with them. There was always the opportunity to ask questions or get any advice from them.

Our tutors all had previously worked in the industry and they passed on their knowledge and experience to us - I definitely learnt a lot from them.

After finishing my Foundation Degree I decided to continue with my studies with a one-year top-up course at the University of Chester to gain a full BA (Hons) Degree in Sports Development.

I now combine my studies with working at the University gym as a Fitness Instructor. My role includes running different classes, conducting inductions and generally helping people during their work-outs.

Outside of University I also run my own Boot Camp sessions in Warrington, they’ve been really popular and I’m hoping to continue to grow them in the future.

My career goal is to work with clients who have cardiac rehab problems as I think it would be a very interesting and rewarding job. The Foundation Degree has provided me with an excellent base to go on and achieve this.

I really enjoyed the course as it was varied and provided me with lots of hands-on experience working in the industry.

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Foundation Degrees

Foundation Degree in Computer Science Have you got the IT Factor? If you have, this Foundation Degree will help you on your way to a successful career in ICT or further study in this area. You will gain skills in areas such as Computer Systems (hardware, networking and data communications), Information Systems, Systems Analysis, Relational Databases (SQL), Programming (Java and Eclipse), Website Development (PHP), Project Management, Emerging Technologies and Continuing Professional Development. You will study two years at West Cheshire College and then you have the option to continue on to a third year to achieve a BA (Hons) degree at the University of Chester.

Duration Full time over 2 years.

Entry Requirements You will want to gain a nationally-recognised Higher Education qualification and already have a Level 3 qualification or relevant work experience. To meet the requirements of the course you will undertake a work-based project.


Campus Life

Our Campuses in Chester and Ellesmere Port offer an amazing range of facilities making West Cheshire College the destination of choice. As a learner with West Cheshire College you are able to receive discounts and special offers on all our services.

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Certificate in Education in Teaching in the Learning and Skills Sector - Level 4/5Awarded by the University of Chester

This programme is aimed at equipping you with the skills and underpinning knowledge you need to be an effective teacher in Post-Compulsory Education and Training. It is designed to accommodate learning and assessment in both the workplace and classroom through personal, professional and academic development with a particular emphasis on the development of reflective practice within a subject-specialist area. It will enable you to be employed full or part-time as a Teacher or Trainer in the sector. Assessment is through written academic assignments and reports, individual and group presentations, observation of teaching, research projects and mentor observation. Learners can progress to other Higher Education programmes.

Duration Part time over 2 years.

Entry Requirements You will need access to a teaching role across a range of levels and learner types, have GCSE or Level 2 equivalent in English and maths, you need to have a qualification in your own subject at Level 3. You will also need to have access to 50 teaching practice hours per year - this can be paid, via a placement or voluntary.

City and Guilds Certificate in Education and Training (CTLLS) Level 4 For Pre-service or In-service Teachers or Trainers this Certificate is aimed at candidates who would like or require an introduction to teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector or are seeking career progression within their area of work.

Duration Part time over 6 months.

Entry Requirements You must be qualified to Level 3, or be able to demonstrate Level 3 process skills and personal skills in English. You also require a Level 3 qualification or relevant experience in your chosen subject area. You need to have access to 30 teaching practice hours to enable teaching observation as you will be observed during the course - this can be paid, via a placement or voluntary.

Teaching & Education Qualifications


If you are looking to teach English to speakers of other languages then the Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA) can provide you with the appropriate qualification. Teaching English to speakers of other languages can be a highly rewarding career, offering you the chance to live and work abroad. CELTA is an initial qualification for people with little or no previous teaching experience and opens up a whole world of exciting teaching opportunities. During this course you will cover: language awareness, planning for teaching, classroom management, resources and materials and insights into learner and professional development. In addition to attending the sessions you will observe other teachers, have your teaching practice assessed, complete four assignments, research language analysis and prepare your own sessions.

Duration Courses available include an intensive option delivered daily over a four-week period or a one-day-a-week programme, starting in either September, March or July.

Entry Requirements Ideally you will be aged 20 years or over and you will be educated to degree level, although previous qualifications and experience can also be taken into account. An interview is required prior to enrolment.

Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA) Level 5 Awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES)

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Teaching & Education Qualifications

Additional Diploma in Teaching Mathematics (Numeracy) in the Lifelong Learning Sector Level 5The diploma is appropriate for Teachers, Tutors and Trainers who may be working for a Further Education College, Adult and Community Learning Centre, or other learning providers, and for those delivering work-based training within voluntary, community, private and public organisations. The diploma explores: numeracy acquisition and use, barriers to numeracy acquisition and development, and theories and principles of numeracy learning. You will then focus on the learning and teaching of numeracy through the planning, selection and development of approaches to numeracy learning for a range of learner types. Teaching practice is an essential element of this qualification.

Duration Part time over 1 year.

Entry Requirements You must be qualified to Level 3, or be able to demonstrate Level 3 process skills and personal skills in maths, have access to 75 teaching practice hours and possess reasonable levels in areas of the Minimum Core not represented within your subject specialism.

City & Guilds 6502 Award in Education and Training (PTLLS)This is an introduction course designed for those wanting to work as Teachers, Trainers and support staff in education or industry. This course is designed primarily for those wanting to explore teaching as a career. This is a threshold

qualification which equips you to deliver learning effectively. You can progress on to higher-level teacher training courses on completion of this award.

Duration Part time over 16 weeks.

Entry Requirements You must be qualified to Level 3, or be able to demonstrate Level 3 process skills and personal skills in English. A suitable qualification or relevant experience in your chosen subject area including an initial assessment.

Additional Diploma in Teaching English (Literacy) in the Lifelong Learning Sector Level 5This diploma would suit teachers or potential teachers who may be working for a Further Education College, Adult and Community Learning Centre, or other learning providers, and for those delivering work-based training within voluntary, community, private and public organisations. The diploma explores how language and literacy is acquired and learnt, language change and empowerment. It provides a more in-depth understanding, development and analysis of theories of literacy learning and development. Teaching practice is an essential element of this qualification.

Duration Part time over 1 year.

Entry Requirements You must be qualified to Level 3, or be able to demonstrate Level 3 process skills and personal skills in English, have access to 75 teaching practice hours and possess reasonable levels in areas of the Minimum Core not represented within your subject specialism.

Part-Time Professional Qualifications

If you are already working in your chosen industry and want to progress by gaining a qualification from a recognised awarding body, then West Cheshire College can help you achieve this. Even if you are not already employed, these courses can help you gain a great qualification widely recognised by employers that can help you take your first steps to a successful career. The courses are part-time and are at times to suit you so you can work and study at the same time. They cover many areas from accountancy to counselling. West Cheshire College offers part-time professional courses from Level 3 to Level 7. Courses available at West Cheshire College include:


AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians)AAT is internationally recognised within the field of accounting, with many employers actively seeking AAT qualified staff. AAT courses range from Level 1 to a Level 4 Diploma, looking at all aspects of both financial and management accounting.

CMI (Chartered Management Institute)These qualifications are designed for Middle Managers and those aspiring to Senior Management who want to develop key skills such as managing resources, recruitment and information management. (Level 5 - Level 7).

CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development)A CIPD qualification is a passport to a career in people management and development and is highly valued by employers. Many job advertisements for human resource staff require candidates to be CIPD qualified. The College offers Level 3, Level 5 and Level 7.

ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management)The ILM Level 2 qualification in Team Leading is specifically designed to give practising or aspiring team leaders a solid foundation in their formal development as a leader. The ILM Level 3 qualification in Leadership and Management has been specifically designed to give those in a supervisory position a solid foundation in their formal development as a Manager.

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Part-Time Professional Qualifications

CILEX (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives)The Level 3 ILEX Professional Diploma in Law and Practice provides a broad introduction to law and legal practice and covers criminal law, criminal litigation, client care skills, legal research skills, contract law, land law, law of tort, family law and practice of family law.

CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants)Becoming a chartered management accountant can accelerate your career and boost your salary. At West Cheshire College we will help you to develop your technical ability and your professional career. CIMA trained people work in industry, commerce, management, consultancies, banks, public and non-profit organisations.

CPCAB (Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body)The Level 4 Diploma is designed for those wanting to become a Counsellor within a counselling service agency. The Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling equips candidates with further skills and understanding on working with complex aspects of counselling relationships. If you want to train to become a Clinical Supervisor Of Counsellors then the Level 6 Certificate in Therapeutic Counselling Supervision is the ideal qualification for you.


CMI (Chartered Management Institute) in Management and Leadership

Case StudyKatarina

Kovacova

I recently completed the CMI (Chartered Management Institute) Management and Leadership Level 5. I studied the course part-time around my job as a Senior Receptionist at the Chester Grosvenor Hotel.

I initially started on the CMI Management and Leadership Level 3 course through work. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to continue on my own initiative and study the Level 5 course as well.

I’ve definitely put the new skills I have learnt into practice and it’s really helped me to improve my managerial skills and communication skills at work.

I’m hoping my qualifications will help me progress at the hotel. My long-term career goal is to secure a role as a Manager.

The course has certainly been challenging as I am originally from Slovakia. It was difficult studying in English as it isn’t my first language. However, the tutors were really supportive and helped me throughout the course.

The course has helped me a lot in my day-to-day role at the hotel as the modules we studied and the projects we completed all related back to the workplace.

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Full-Time Level 4 Diplomas

West Cheshire College offers full-time Level 4 Diplomas in Visual Merchandising, Buying and Merchandising and Fashion. Level 4 Diplomas are a great first step into Higher Education and these courses are specifically designed to develop your skills across a broad range of areas within the fashion retail industry. If you want to improve your employment prospects and want to progress in an exciting career in fashion retail, then these courses are a great choice.

FashionLevel 4ABC DiplomaThe course has been designed to give students an introduction to fashion and all aspects of the fashion industry. On the course you will learn about the fashion cycle, pattern cutting, buying, range planning, merchandising and fashion promotion. You will be continually assessed through live and realistic projects and the course will help you to build a portfolio for progression in to Higher Education. You will also be given an insight into possible employment progression opportunities in the fashion industry.

Duration Full time over 1 year.

Entry Requirements One A Level plus three GCSEs at grade C or above or successful completion of a Level 3 programme.


Buying and Merchandising Level 4 ABC Diploma

Case StudyStephanie

Owiredu-Oppong

I have always had an interest in fashion and I’m always giving style advice to my sisters and friends. So I decided to follow my dreams and left my job in the NHS to study buying and merchandising at the College.

I found the course really interesting as it was something completely different. The course included a lot of hands-on experience including working for the College’s retail shop, No.65. We would go to wholesalers in Manchester to select pieces of clothing to sell. We would then price them and work with the merchandisers to ensure they were displayed in the right places to create maximum impact.

I recently finished the course and I secured a month’s Internship with Tesco’s Florence and Fred fashion range working on the toddler girl’s department.

Whilst I’ve been there I’ve been researching what their competitors are doing and looking at feedback from customers on their website. I’ve been putting this information into a presentation which will be used for a strategy meeting for Senior Managers at Tesco.

The placement has been an amazing experience and I’ve learnt a lot from it. The tutors were really supportive when I was looking for placements and suggested places for me to go to - I’m glad I listened to their advice.

I loved everything about West Cheshire College - the course, tutors, people and the facilities.

I’m from London but moved to Ellesmere Port to study as it was the best course I could find - it covered similar topics to a degree course but without the university price tag.

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Full-Time Level 4 Diplomas

Visual Merchandising Level 4 ABC DiplomaWant to get ahead in fashion retail? If you love fashion and are a creative forward-thinker then this course is ideal for you. This intensive course covers all aspects of visual merchandising from window design and in-store displays to mannequin dressing and developing retail relationships. Through practical workshops and a work placement with local retail parks you will be fully prepared for an exciting career in the fashion world.



Buying and MerchandisingLevel 4 ABC DiplomaDo you have your finger on the fashion pulse? If you have a great sense of style and a head for business this course will prepare you for a fast-paced career in fashion. You will gain knowledge and understanding of all aspects of fashion retail, buying and merchandising, from budgets and problem-solving to communications and trend forecasting. With work placements within a head office environment you will gain a wide view of the industry enabling you to confidently enter this area of the fashion business.




How to Apply

Level 4 and Access CoursesYou need to complete an application form by either visiting our website www.west-cheshire.ac.uk or calling the College hotline on 01244 656555. Application forms can be provided in Braille and on tape, on request. If you need help completing the form, please contact the College Advisory Team on 01244 656440.

Completed application forms should be sent to:College Advisory Team (Applications)West Cheshire College, Freepost CS554,Ellesmere Port Campus, Ellesmere Port,CH65 5AB

To arrange an interview or talk to an adviser call 01244 656440.

HND/Cs/Part-Time Foundation Degrees/Certificate in Education /Level 4 and 5 Diplomas1. Complete a West Cheshire College

Application Pack

2. Attend a Higher Education and Professional Information and Admissions Evening

3. Attend an Interview

4. Offer Confirmed

Full-Time Foundation Degrees1. Apply through UCAS (www.ucas.com)

and select study option of ‘West Cheshire College’

2. Application forwarded from UCAS to College

3. Interview

4. Offer confirmed via the UCAS online system

Application InformationIf you need any further information, advice and guidance or just to request an application pack please don’t hesitate to call our Higher Education Adviser on: 01244 656440.

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Finance Options

Higher Education Finance 2014/15 Due to significant changes to the way Higher Education is funded please go to www.west-cheshire.ac.uk for up-to-date information on student finance. For further information or support please contact the Finance and Welfare Team on: 01244 656200 or the College Team on: 01244 656440.

Student FinanceInformation for Full-time Students The majority of UK full-time students apply for funding through Student Finance England or Wales.

There are three main funding streams available:

• A Tuition Fee Loan

• A Maintenance Loan

• A Maintenance Grant or Special Support Grant of up to £3,250 (this is a grant and therefore does not have to be repaid)

Information for Part-time StudentsStudents can access a non-means-tested loan to cover the cost of their tuition fees. Applications for part and full-time students are available via www.gov.uk/browse/education/ student-finance

Disabled Students’ AllowanceThese are available to students who have extra costs because of a disability, mental-health condition or specific learning difficulty. DSAs can help pay for specialist equipment, a non-medical helper, travel or other extra costs. DSAs do not depend on household income. How much you receive depends entirely on your circumstances.

Professional and Career Development LoansIf you need further financial support you may be eligible for a Professional and Career Development Loan. For further information: www.gov.uk/career-development-loans.

24+ Advanced Learning Loan24+ Advanced Learning Loan will give you the opportunity to study a Level 3 or Level 4 qualification without having to pay anything up-front. Most learners aged 24 or over, studying on a Level 3 or Level 4 course, will qualify for these new loans from the UK government. It’s easy to apply, your household income isn’t taken into account and there’s no credit check. You won’t have to pay anything back until your income is over £21,000 per year. If you would like further information on the 24+ Advanced Learning Loan please call our Information, Advice and Guidance Team on 01244 656200 or email: [email protected]

Access to Opportunity

DBS statement

Disclaimer

West Cheshire College promotes equality and diversity in all that we do and we are committed to implementing equality of opportunity in all activities and services which we provide for staff, students and visitors to the College. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and encourage and support all staff and students to reach their full potential.

Some of the courses featured in this document may involve regular and unsupervised contact with children or vulnerable adults. Where this is the case, a Disclosure and Barring Service check to enhanced level is required as a condition of entry. Having a criminal record will not necessarily exclude you from studying with us. A decision as to whether to offer you a place will depend on the nature of the programme and the circumstances and background of any offences.

The information in this prospectus was, to the best of our knowledge, accurate at the time of going to print. We are constantly reviewing our facilities and the courses we offer and details may therefore change.


and diversityPromoting equality

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Chester CampusEaton RoadHandbridgeChesterCH4 7ER

Ellesmere Port CampusOff Sutton WayEllesmere PortCH65 7BF

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west cheshire college access, higher education and professional qualifications prospectus 2014/15

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