Access to Higher Education Courses
Our Access to Higher Education (HE)Courses
Our Access to Higher Education (HE) courses are designed for adults aged 19+ who want to progress to university but don’t yet have the qualifications they need.
These one-year, Level 3 courses provide a supportive route into Higher Education, helping you build both subject knowledge and the confidence to succeed in further study.
Access to HE is the only course where the Advanced Learner Loan does not need to be repaid if you go on to complete a higher education degree. You can find out more about the Advanced Learner Loan here.
Whether you’re returning to education, changing career, or starting your journey for the first time, Access to HE can help you take that next step.
What Does an Access to Higher Education Course Involve?
You’ll study a mix of subject-specific content and essential academic skills to prepare you for university-level learning.
Your course will typically include:
- Subject knowledge relevant to your chosen pathway
- Academic writing, research and referencing skills
- Independent study and critical thinking
- Assessments through assignments rather than final exams
How to Apply
If you have GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 (C) or above, you can apply for an Access to Higher Education course by selecting the ‘Apply’ button on the course page.
As part of your application, you will need to provide a personal statement. This should include:
- Any relevant experience, skills or personal motivation
- Why you want to study the course
- What you plan to study at university and your reasons for this choice
Access to Higher Education Courses
Principles of Applied Science First Award Level 1/Level 2
The Principles of Applied Science Award has been designed to deliver the Key Stage 4 Programme of Study for science by covering the key scientific principles vital for both scientists and citizens of the future….
Aviation Operations Level 2
This one-year, part-time course will prepare you for employment in a variety of roles in aviation ground operations. If you complete the course successfully and meet employer requirements, you will be guaranteed a job interview…
Health T Level
This is a new two-year full-time course designed in collaboration with employers, suitable for post-16 students looking to develop both knowledge and practical skills in the health sector. The T Level in health is designed…
Bridge to Vocationals
This is an inclusive course for students who want to learn skills in vocational-related subjects alongside their Maths, English and Independent skills. This course is for students studying at Entry Level. The course typically runs…
Sensory Learning
This course supports students with complex needs to further develop their communication and life skills and to make choices as they prepare for adulthood. Our personal tutors and support staff work closely with parents/carers and…
Progression into Independence
This is an inclusive course for students wishing to work on their independent living skills and to prepare them for future college courses. This course is for students at Pre-entry and Entry level. The course…
Pathways to Vocation
This course is for students who are working at Foundation Level and who will progress to higher-level qualifications, internships, or employment. In addition to studying English and Maths at the appropriate level, students will have…
Youth and Community Work Foundation Degree
This programme has been designed to meet the needs of the workforce. It provides a means by which practitioners, employed within a learning environment, can obtain a recognised qualification specific to their field and become…
Technical Occupational Entry in Social Care Diploma Level 3 (NCFE CACHE)
The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry Diploma is a career-focused qualification designed to prepare learners for entry into professional roles across the education, care and support sectors. It provides the knowledge, skills and…
Mental Health & Wellbeing Programme Level 1
A Level 1 programme that offers learners the opportunity to develop knowledge, skills and behaviours around Mental Health and personal wellbeing. This year will allow learners to focus on securing good grades in English and…
Wellbeing – Introduction to Youthwork and Playworker Pathway
Co-designed in partnership with the Bristol Play and Youth Alliance, this course provides an exciting pathway into the Play and Youth Sector in Bristol. Developed alongside local organisations within the sector, the course is designed…
Technical Occupational Entry in Healthcare Support Diploma Level 2 (NCFE CACHE)
This qualification is designed to provide learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to develop competence as a healthcare support worker in a range of healthcare support settings. The qualification will provide employers with…
