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What is an Access Course?
Access to HE courses are specifically designed for learners aged 19 or over, who wish to take a university-level course but don’t have the normal entrance requirements for Higher Education. They are recognised by universities and other Higher Education institutions as an alternative to standard A-level entry.
There are many reasons why this route may suit you; you may be a student who has completed some qualifications and can show the right level of skill and maturity for this programme, or you may be a mature applicant who has not studied A-levels but possesses a wealth of experience in your chosen field. The courses provide a broad programme of study that includes core modules and more specialist modules that will enable you to progress.
Year after year, our students secure places at the country’s leading universities on courses such as midwifery, nursing, psychology, paramedic science, sport & exercise science, optometry and many more.
To find out more information and to apply for a course visit our website: CLICK HERE
Have a look at what our students say?
Previous student and Festival of Learning - Learning for Work Award winner in 2019, Emma Searle talks about her experiences of studying GCSEs and an Access to HE Diploma at Petroc.
“I originally started at Petroc on a catering course, before progressing onto Health and Social Care. I enjoyed my time at college, but had been in education a long time so decided to take a year out and work.
It was during this time – at the start of this year – that I had an epiphany! All of a sudden I knew what I wanted to do: become a children’s nurse. However, I didn’t have the right qualifications to go straight to university.
I found out about the Access to HE course through a friend and knew that it was exactly what I was looking for, so applied straight away.
I’m really enjoying the diploma so far. Most people are in the same boat and want the same things out of the course, so we all support and encourage each other. It can be challenging balancing working and studying, but I’m lucky that my employer is very understanding.
Although it’s hard work – we’ve already had to hand in four assignments in the first term – it’s definitely worth it. I feel like my confidence has already improved a lot, and it has given me the belief that I can do anything if I put my mind to it.
I’ve recently applied to Bournemouth University for a three year course, which starts with 12 weeks of theory and then goes straight into a hospital placement – I can’t wait. In the future I’d like to specialise in neonatal care.”
Amy Souster - Access to Nursing, Midwifery and Medical Science
"Petroc was recommended to me by my wife who had previously worked there. They were my local education provider for the course I required and came highly recommended by people who had previously studied there.
Getting back into education after such a long time and rediscovering my love for learning all things science have been my highlights.
The excellent support from the tutors, especially during the difficult period at the end of the course during our lockdown. The Tutors have been very understanding and always ready and willing to offer support.
Its never too late to get back into education and this is the perfect course to get into University. Petroc is a great college that offers amazing support"
Ray - Access to Higher Education Diploma: Sciences
"I knew I needed to gain a science qualification for my chosen course at university but knew that just sitting an A-level , in my case, was not enough. The last time I attended school and college, the world wide web was not available in the public domain! I realised that I needed to develop my study skills and gain confidence, not just in the modern classroom environment but with up to date referencing techniques and presentation skills.
I really enjoyed the science lab practicals - ironically, science terrified me at school! The tutors presentation and explanation of the subject matter really clicked with m, it was not easy, but it was fun. I also really enjoyed working along side the other members of the course. Everybody bought something different to the table but most of all we all gained confidence from each other.
I can quite honestly say that without the support I received at Petroc, I do not think my route into higher education would have been such a rewarding experience."
Natalie McNeice - Access to Higher Education- Diploma in Nursing, Midwifery
We offer Access to HE courses in the following:
HUMANITIES, EDUCATION & SOCIAL WORK
NURSING, MIDWIFERY & MEDICAL SCIENCE
SCIENCE
Find out more information about each below or to visit our website CLICK HERE
ADVANCED LEARNER LOAN INFORMATION
If you're aged over 19, you may be able to receive help towards the costs of fees for your course.
Key facts about Advanced Learner Loans
The minimum loan amount is £300.
A loan can be taken out and used to pay the full or partial amount of the tuition fees.
Your household income does not hinder your ability to apply.
There is no credit check involved.
Interest on the loans is low and linked to inflation.
Any balance outstanding will be written off after 30 years.
Getting a loan doesn't depend on your household income and you will not have to pay back a penny until you are earning more than £26,575 a year. After that your repayments will be deducted directly from your salary and you will pay back 9% of however much you earn above £25,725 - so if you earn £27,725 you will pay back £180 a year (9% of £2000) – which equates to just £15.00 a month.
If your Level 3 course is an Access to Higher Education course and you go on to successfully complete an undergraduate degree then your Advanced Learner Loan will be written off!
Who is eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan?
Whether you qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan depends on when your course is scheduled to start.
You must be 19 or older on the first day of your course.
Loans can only be used to fund the following types of qualification:
Access to Higher Education Diplomas, vocational qualifications including technical and professional qualifications at Levels 3, 4, 5 and 6.
If the loan is for an Access to Higher Education course and you subsequently go on to complete your degree then you won’t have to pay back your Advanced Learner Loan.
You must be living in the UK on the first day of your course.
You have been living in the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man for three years before starting your course.
You are a UK national or have ‘settled status’ (this means there’s no restrictions on how long you can stay).
How do I apply?
You can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan using an online application form available on the GOV.UK website.
To apply online, you must first have been issued with a Learning and Funding Information Letter, which will be supplied by the Registry Team following an interview.
How much can I get?
The loan amount you are able to receive will depend on the type of course you take and how much the fees are for the course. The minimum loan you can receive is £300.
How can I find out more information?
Helpful Websites:
Gov.uk Advanced Learner Loan Information
The Money Advice Service Advanced Learner Loan Information
Please contact the Guidance Centre on: 01884 235245
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