Speakers of Other Languages Access to Higher Education Diploma (Overseas Academic English)

This course provides mature students with a route into higher education if they do not have the required formal qualifications or have been out of education for a while. Academic English provides preparation for entry to higher education by helping you to develop your academic written work and your reading, listening and writing skills. You can choose two subjects from our main pathways. The academic English course will support you with your vocabulary for your chosen pathway.

In Academic English you will improve your academic reading and writing skills in order to cope successfully with the challenges of studying in higher education. You will also review grammar, extend your vocabulary and improve your study skills. In Academic English you will develop your skills in academic listening and speaking to enable you to succeed in higher education. You will also work on improving your pronunciation. You will also select option courses from the pathway of your choice. For example you could study law, information technology, and business studies (Business and Enterprise pathway). Students who do not have GCSE Maths grade C or above have the opportunity to gain this qualification. There will also be the opportunity to gain nationally recognised Level 2 qualifications in Adult Numeracy and Literacy.

You will learn through a variety of lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials. Credits are gained for a variety of tasks such as essays, reports, presentations, listening exercises, discussions and timed assessments. You will also sit mock IELTS exams. Assessment is via a combination of exams (approximately 30%) and coursework (approximately 70%).

As well as developing subject knowledge in academic English and option courses you will improve your communication, personal and study skills through a common core programme. There is a wide range of support available at the college for students including financial support. You will be assigned a personal tutor who will agree performance targets with you and support you to achieve these targets. Your tutor is also the first port of call for any pastoral issues. Our committed team of staff and careers specialists will also guide and support you with your higher education choices and applications. Almost all our Access students progress to higher education. You will benefit from socialising in an educational environment and working collaboratively on projects. All of this is excellent preparation for higher education.

Students must be aged 19 and over. No specific qualifications are asked for however a GCSE grade C in English or maths would be beneficial. You will be interviewed and have a numeracy and literacy assessment to check your suitability to study at Level 3. At your interview you will need to demonstrate that you have a realistic career goal in mind and the motivation to achieve. Some degrees require that you have some relevant paid or voluntary work experience. Applicants are strongly advised to check degree entry requirements with prospective universities.

Completion of the programme will allow you to pursue a higher education degree or diploma that relates to the pathway of study.