Access to Higher Education

Access to Higher Education

You can obtain the academic credit and the study skills you need to enter university and succeed on your chosen degree course thanks to our Access to Higher Education Diplomas.

Education has the power to transform lives, and our Access courses exemplify that, providing a route into university for adults without the right formal qualifications or traditional academic backgrounds.

Our Access students are an exceptional group of people who are both motivated and determined, and at Brock we match that commitment by pledging to provide dedicated and experienced teachers.

We realise that returning to education can feel like a big step, which is why we give you specialist pastoral support to ensure you make an easy transition back to the classroom.

Small class sizes, a dedicated Access Progression Advisor and strong links with local universities make Brock the perfect place to take your first step towards your ideal career.

You will also meet likeminded learners and enjoy being part of diverse and supportive classes as you develop into a confident self-directed learner.

Importantly, successful completion of an Access course will demonstrate to universities your ability to switch path through hard work and determination.

 

So make the most of your talents and discover your route into Higher Education with an Access course.

Access to HE Infographic

Our Access course leavers have gained places at prestigious universities across the UK and within our region. Regional destinations include Southampton, Chichester, Portsmouth, Winchester and Bournemouth.

GCSE English and GCSE Maths courses are also available for learners who require them.

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Advanced Learner Loans

Advanced Learner Loans give you access to financial support to cover your tuition fees. This means that rather than having to pay for your course at the start you can pay with a loan from the Student Loans Company. You will only start to repay the loan once you have left the course and are earning over £25,725 a year.

If you are aged 19 or over you will have the option to:

  • Pay the course fees personally.
  • Have an employer/sponsor pay the course fees for you.
  • Apply for an Advanced Learning Loan to cover the complete cost of your course.

An Advanced Learner Loan is for anyone who is:

  • Aged 19 or over at the start of the course.
  • Studying at Level 3 to Level 6 in Further Education or training and is resident in the UK.

Please note:

  • You will not be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan if you have already taken one to complete the same type and level of qualification.
  • If you are aged 19-23 and are applying for your first Level 3 qualification, this may be free. Please contact us to check your eligibility.
  • Loans are available irrespective of your current employment status and will not be means tested or subject to any credit checks.
  • If you are taking out a loan for an Access course, you will not have to repay it if you then go on to complete a Higher Education qualification.

Find out more information about Advanced Learner Loans and how to apply here: ADVANCED LEARNER LOAN

FAQ

How long does an Access course last?

You can study this course full-time over one year or part-time over two years.

How many hours a week is an Access course?

Class contact time averages 12 hours a week. Lessons take place Monday – Wednesday, 9am – 2pm. Please note that this is subject to change. You should check the planned timetable when you apply.

Can I take an Access course if I am under 19?

Access courses are designed for adults aged 19+. If you are 18 and interested in an Access course, please get in touch so we can help you find the programme that is right for you.

When do Access courses start?

Access courses run every academic year from September to June.

Can I study via distance learning?

No. Access courses are classroom-based programmes with no distance learning modules.

Will I need to study in my spare time?

For every hour of class time, we recommend you spend an hour studying independently. We also recommend making use of our Learning Resources Centre and quiet study areas.

Is funding available for this course?

If you are under 24 and do not hold a Level 3 qualification, this course will be funded. If you are over 24, or already hold a Level 3 qualification, funding is available through an Advanced Learner Loan. You may also be eligible for additional financial support to help with childcare and travel costs through our bursary system.

How will I be assessed?

You will submit written assignments in each of your subjects. These will be marked and graded by your teachers and then moderated externally. You will also sit one exam.

What will I need to do to get the best grades?

The single most important thing our most successful students have in common is full attendance. High achieving Access students are also well organised and devote plenty of time to independent study.

Is it possible to study an Access course if I have other commitments?

Yes. In fact, a majority of our Access students combine their course with work and home commitments. You will need to be organised, but as long as you attend all your lessons, there is no reason why you cannot complete your Access course while fulfilling other commitments.

What should I do before I apply?

Before you submit your application, please research your progression route thoroughly. Make sure you attend university open days and speak to staff running the course you hope to study. Also, check entry requirements on ucas.com to make sure an Access course is a good match for the university course you wish to study.

If you are planning to study Nursing, Midwifery, an Allied Health course or a Teaching degree at university, we expect you to have undertaken relevant work experience before you apply for an Access course. Universities will expect to see evidence of relevant work experience in your personal statement, which you will write in the first term of your Access course.

What is the application process?

Please apply for your Access course online.

Part of the application form asks you to write a personal statement. The personal statement is your opportunity to tell us about you, your background, why you want to study and Access course and how it fits with your future plans.

These personal statements often form the basis of our students’ UCAS personal statements, so please give us as much information as possible. Once your application has been received by the College you will be invited to attend an interview.

We start interviewing Access applicants in March, but we welcome your application at any time.

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How to apply

Find out about how to apply for an Access course by clicking the button below.

HOW TO Apply

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Contact

admissions@brock.ac.uk   

01590 625500