English

To join one of our Access to HE courses, you will need GCSE Grade C/4 or above or Functional Skills Level 2

Maths

You can study maths alongside our courses, but please consider the time you have available to study and do assignments.

Technology

We will demonstrate the use of Teams at the beginning of the course. However, you must be able to use the Internet, send emails, and attach documents to emails. If you struggle with technology, please consider taking a short course with your local Adult Education Centre or college before joining our course.

You will need good access to the Internet and a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. A mobile phone is not suitable.

Time

This is a part-time course. You will need to allow up to 16 hours per week during term time for studying, 6 taught hours and up to 10 hours of protected self-study time for completing assignments.

Previous Experience

Previous experience working or volunteering in health or care is an advantage, but don’t worry if you don’t have any. The great thing about Access to HE courses is that they enable people to change their careers. Some learners volunteer or work part-time in health-related settings alongside the Access to HE course, but this isn’t compulsory.

‘Find Out More’ Webinar

We are committed to providing all prospective learners with high-quality information, advice, and guidance to ensure they are on the right course at the right time. We require all prospective learners to attend or watch our one-hour webinar. The webinar is held every Wednesday evening from 6.30 to 7.30 pm. You can learn more about the course and ask us questions. If you cannot attend, you can watch a recording and email us your questions.

Click here to book a place on one of these webinars.

• Promoting Wellbeing and Building Resilience
• Academic Writing Skills
• Care Principles
• Drug Calculations
• Human Body Systems: Circulation and Gaseous Exchange
• Circulation, Immunity and Homeostasis
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Human Reproduction and Health-Related Issues
• Introduction to Health and Disease
• Introduction to Healthcare
• The Role of the Midwife During Labour and Birth
• Preparation for Higher Education
• Professional Interpersonal Skills
• Antenatal Care and the Role of the Midwife
• Research Skills for Health and Care
• Safeguarding
• Study Skills
• Understanding Perinatal Mental Ill Health
• Mental Health & Illness

• Female Genital Mutilation
• Introduction to Healthcare
• Human Body Systems - Circulation and Gaseous Exchange
• Promoting Health

Academic Writing Skills

The academic writing skills unit is designed to develop and sharpen your academic and professional writing skills. We will focus on the skills and strategies you can use to ensure that your writing is appropriate for academia. Researching for essays and reports can be daunting, so this unit focuses on techniques you can use to prioritise key points from a range of sources. From this, you will then look at how detailed essay plans can support you in your writing and the format your essay should take. Other key skills that are addressed are drafts and proofreading, structure and tone of the essay and appropriate referencing. Together, this unit gives you all of the tools needed to support you throughout your academic career.

Antenatal Care and The Role of The Midwife

This unit explores the role of the midwife in relation to other health professionals. How the midwife can guide and support pregnant women to make safe and healthy lifestyle choices to avoid harm to the unborn foetus.

Care Principles

Anyone who works in the health and social care sector must ensure that they fully understand what is required of them from a legal and ethical perspective. This unit looks at professional codes of conduct and how they apply to health and social care roles, with particular emphasis on nursing. We look at confidentiality, maintaining confidentiality and the situations in which this is not possible. Understanding and promoting anti-discriminatory practice is a legal requirement for health and social care professionals. This unit looks at how this can be done, along with supporting the individual rights of a service user and understanding the importance of personal beliefs and identity.

Drug Calculations and Health – Related Charts

This unit deals with some of the basic numerical and mathematical skills associated with Drug Calculations and Health-related Charts. It highlights the need for attention to detail when allocating units of measurement to recorded data, and when completing observations on charts. Allocating wrong units of measurement to a number can lead to major problems, since errors such as the misinterpretation of units of measurement or the use of incorrect units of measurement can make a difference of a factor of 1000 in many dosages. Likewise, the incorrect recording of numerical data can make a significant difference in determining the well-being and treatment of a patient or service user. You will gain an understanding of how drug dosages and intravenous infusion rates are calculated, and how the calculations relate to a variety of specific information concerning the human body and physiology, such as age, weight and body surface area. Again, these calculations require careful attention to the accuracy of the units of measurement in which quantities are measured in.

You will also gain an understanding of health-related charts, such as the National Early Warning Score (NEWS2) chart, and fluid balance charts, including their purpose, how they should be completed and interpreted once completed. The accurate recording of clinical data is key to keeping service users well cared for and safe, and how the data which the charts contain significantly contribute to diagnosis and treatment. Record kept in all aspects of healthcare are legal documents; this means that individuals who work for health-related organisations are responsible for what they record and write. All documentation and data must therefore be recorded accurately. Working in a health-related setting is a team effort and can be stressful and pressurised. Working in this sort of atmosphere can lead to mistakes and, therefore, all documentation and data should be completed with care and accuracy if service users are to remain safe and colleagues are to make effective use of the information for the benefit of those in their care. Finally, the unit explores the implications and consequences of errors in recording information.

Female Genital Mutilation

This unit explores the 4 types of Female Genital Mutilation, the law and prevalence in the UK. You will study the multi-agency approaches to FGM and gain an understanding of mandatory reporting procedures.

Human Anatomy and Physiology

Our body is made up of eleven integrated systems, and each system has its own major function. In this unit you are going to learn about six of these systems: circulatory, digestive, skeletal, reproductive, respiratory, and the excretory system. All these systems are made up of organs, and the organs consist of tissues which are made up of cells. In addition to learning about the anatomy (the structure and parts of the system), you will be focusing on the physiology of each of these parts (how they work together to carry out the main function of the system). There will be opportunity to learn not only the gross structure but also the structure of the organs at cellular or microscopic level. You will also be carrying out an experiment to investigate how enzymes of the digestive system work.

First, here is a brief look at what each system does:

• Circulatory system: movement of substances within the body.
• Digestive system: breakdown of food into simpler molecules that can be used by the body for energy.
• Skeletal system: protects the internal organs and supports movement.
• Reproductive system: produces offspring.
• Respiratory system: intake of oxygen as well as removal of carbon dioxide.
• Excretory system: removal of metabolic waste.

Human Reproduction and Health Related Issues

In this unit you will get the opportunity to learn about the male and female reproductive systems. The process of production of male and female gametes will be looked at along with the biological significance of mitosis and meiosis in sexual reproduction. This will be followed by an in-depth look at the processes of fertilisation, implantation and pregnancy, and the stages in childbirth. Having built an understanding of how reproduction takes place in humans, issues related to sexual health will be studied. These will include contraceptive practices, some common sexually transmitted diseases and reproductive technology.

Diagrams and illustrations are included to support learning, and several links to useful videos are included at the end of each subtopic to support development of understanding and application of knowledge gained.

Introduction to Healthcare

Healthcare has changed significantly over the years. This unit is designed to give an overview of three significant areas of health care, including; how we define health, how British healthcare has evolved, and how this impacts the role of health and social care professionals.

Defining health is something which is a great topic of debate and there are many theoretical perspectives regarding the subject. This unit discusses the three most prominent models of healthcare, and how they define what impacts a person's health.

There have been many influential changes to healthcare in Britain, arguably the most significant being the establishment of the NHS. In this unit, we discuss the background leading up to the NHS being established, and how the NHS has evolved over the years to meet the needs of an ever-changing industry and population.

Finally, we look at the role of health and social care professionals and how this can impact a service user. We discuss the balance of power and how this can affect service users, as well as looking at the ways in which healthcare professionals are able to support and maintain dignity in their practice.

Preparation for Higher Education

To get the most out of your Access to HE Diploma you need to have an idea of what you are aiming for. Once you have this you can start to tailor your research, write bespoke applications, and prepare for any potential interviews. This unit helps you begin this process if you have not done so already.

Professional Interpersonal Skills

This unit explores a range of interpersonal skills, both verbal and non-verbal taking into account cultural diversity. It will enable you to identify your own strengths and areas to develop.

Promoting Health

Health education and promotion is something which is extremely important in supporting individuals to live healthier lifestyles. This unit looks at different models of health education and promotion, and how support can be delivered to service users. We then look at the different settings in which health education can take place, and apply this to the role of two healthcare professionals; a dental health nurse and a nutritionist. Finally, we look at health education and promotion in the mass media and how this can encourage people to live healthier lifestyles.

Promoting Wellbeing and Building Resilience

Learning how to identify the possible cognitive, emotional, physical and behavioural signs and symptoms of abnormal stress/pressure and how to manage them safely. Exploring the concept of mental wellbeing and factors that help and negatively affect it. Better understand resilience and ways to build your own and that of others.

Research Skills for Health and Care

This unit provides students with the opportunity to choose, plan and carry out their own research project on a topic or issue relevant to the subject field of their diploma.

The project enables students to develop and hone their academic research skills, preparing them well for study in higher education. This includes developing and learning a wide range of key academic skills, including an understanding of research methods, analysis and evaluation, critical thinking skills, ethics, time management, report writing, referencing and self-evaluation.

The unit is designed to provide opportunities for the student to engage with research in an area of special interest to them – and to give an insight into some of the key aspects of what higher level study will involve.

Safeguarding Children, Young People and-or Vulnerable Adults

Safeguarding is a critical element for anyone working with children, young people or vulnerable adults to ensure that they are protected from abuse or neglect. It is essential that anyone in these roles understands what safeguarding is and how abuse or neglect can be prevented. Unfortunately, not all cases can be prevented so it is crucial that health and social care professionals are able to recognise abuse and know what their responsibility is with regard to reporting this and supporting their service users.

This unit sets out to define what safeguarding is, how this applies to children, young people and vulnerable adults, and the impact this has on health and social care professionals. We identify the signs of abuse and how this abuse can impact the victim in question. Finally, we look at the legislation that supports safeguarding and the other agencies involved in the prevention of abuse and the safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

Study Skills

The development of study skills is at the heart of every Access to Higher Education course. It is these skills that enable you to thrive in higher education, placing you on an equal footing with students who have followed A-level or other routes.

This three-credit unit contains the key study skills common to all Access to HE programmes. A number of the criteria have been explored in depth elsewhere to form units in their own right. For example, Access to HE students can study whole units on being a reflective learner, writing reports, and references and the reliability of sources. But in this small unit, you have an invaluable treasury of skills which will set you up for your higher education studies.

You will learn how to balance your work, family and other commitments with the demands of study and how to produce a study plan, manage your deadlines and organise your work.

You will learn what to expect in a class or tutorial and how to participate effectively. When you receive your first assignment titles you will have learned to analyse what is required and the best approach to responding to the task.

You will learn that we are highly individual in our learning styles and preferences, and you will be able to use common tools to analyse your own style.

Finally, you will learn how best to extract information from written sources, and how to give credit to the sources you have used – and your own research efforts in locating them.

The Role of the Midwife During Labour and Birth

This unit explores the interesting and various environments for labour and birth. You will learn about the role of the Midwife through every stage of the labour and birth process and how the Midwife assists the new parent/s immediately following the birth.

Course Fee: £3,380

There are various options available for funding:

• If you live in England, the course is fully funded with an Advanced Learner Loan which is written off in full when you achieve your degree. More information here.
• If you live in other UK countries including the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands, they have different funding schemes available:
  • Northern Ireland: please apply here
  • Wales, please apply here
  • Scotland, please apply here
  • The Isle of Man, please apply here
• If you are self-funding your course, we can offer a large discount on the full price of £3380 and an instalment plan. Please ask for more details.

University Funding

Student Finance England. How you are assessed and paid 2023 – 2024. Click here for more information.

Careers Service

Mediprospects operates a MATRIX accredited (Since 2012) Information, Advice and Guidance Service which is available to everyone who visits the Centre without any costs. Our Careers Advisers are trained to find out about your future aspirations and map out how you can get there. If you are unsure about your next steps in learning, work or career, our Advisers can help you make decisions that are best for you. Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) service can help you to:

• Find out what you are skilled at
• Decide about your career
• Find work
• Find learning opportunities
• Build confidence
• Prepare CV
• Get ready for job interviews
• Apply for University places
• And much more

You can also find out about your career options by visiting this website: National Careers Service.

1. Are there any entry requirements for the access course?

To join our course, you will need GCSE English Grade C/4 or above or Functional Skills Level 2.

2. Do I need experience in Health or Care work?

You don’t have to have formal health or care experience – have you cared for a family member or a friend – it all counts.

3. Can I get funding to cover the whole cost of the Access to HE course?

If you live in England, you may be entitled to a non-means-tested Student Loan to cover the whole cost of the course. This loan and any interest is written off fully once you achieve your degree. Read more about it here.

4. Can I get full funding for the Nursing or Midwifery degree and how do I pay it back?

Funding for Nursing or Midwifery Degrees are for tuition and maintenance. Read more here.

5. When does the course begin?

The week beginning 16th of September 2024.

6. If I can’t join the September Course, when are the next Courses?

March 2025.

7. How long does the course last?

Approximately 9 months.

8. How will the course be assessed? Are there any exams?

There are a range of different assessments to prepare you for university, reports, essays, tests, written questions & answers and posters.

9. Do I need to have good computer skills?

We will support you with the use of Teams, you will need a fairly good understanding of IT, use of the internet, sending emails, attaching documents to emails, using a spellchecker for example. If you don’t have fairly good IT Skills, we recommend you take a beginners course with your local college or Adult Education Centre.

10. Will I get help to apply for university?

Absolutely, we will take you through the whole process. We are a registered UCAS Centre and will submit your application along with a reference from us, electronically.

11. Will I have to travel to lessons?

No, all of our lessons are delivered live online by our team of trainers.

12. Can I apply for the course if I need additional support with my studies?

You will need a good standard of English to achieve the grades required for entry to university. If you need additional support with spoken and written English due it being a second or other language for you, we will signpost you to organisations providing support. For learners with learning differences, including Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Autism, ADHD and other hidden disabilities, we make reasonable adjustments to support you.

13. How long is the Access course valid for?

The majority of universities ask for you to demonstrate study within the last 3 to 5 years.

14. Is there an age limit on studying for a Nursing or Midwifery degree?

Not in the UK, but you can check with your chosen university to be sure.

15. What will I study in the Access course

Lots of biology to prepare you for university, along with study skills and academic writing skills.

16. How long does a Nursing or Midwifery degree take to complete?

Usually 3 years full-time and 4 years part-time.

17. Will I get support with learning differences such as Dyslexia at university?

Absolutely, read more about funding here and guidance here.

18. What can I expect to earn as a health professional?

Here are some examples: Nursing, click here, Midwifery, click here, Paramedic, click here.

19. Is it true that Midwifery places are hard to find in the UK?

There aren’t as many places for Midwifery as there are for Nursing, this is why we have a pathway for Midwifery on our course giving you the opportunity to study additional Midwifery units to make your application stronger.

20. Can I apply for jobs with an Access to HE Diploma if I don’t go to university?

Yes, of course, it's a Level 3 Qualification and equivalent to 3 A Levels.

21. Is the course recognised by UK universities?

The majority of universities accept Access to HE courses, there are very few that don't. We are registered with the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.

22. Can I meet you for an informal chat about the course before I decide to join?

We have one-hour, online open events most weeks where you can meet us, hear about the course and ask questions.