Once the dust of exam results day settles, some students may find themselves feeling that university is now out of reach.
If you’ve found yourself in this position, do not worry. Warrington & Vale Royal College offers a variety of higher level courses to help you achieve your career goals.
Whether you’ve got your heart set on a particular profession or you are still exploring your options, Warrington & Vale Royal College has got you covered with several alternative pathways to higher level study. Read on to find out more about the numerous options.
Multiple routes to higher level study
Higher National Certificates (HNCs)
Equivalent to the first year of a degree, these level 4 qualifications provide specialised knowledge and practical skills. To gain entry on to a HNC, you will need a level 3 qualification in a related subject. Successful completion of a HNC will open the door to a range of opportunities, including progression on to a level 5 course or moving straight into employment.
Higher National Diplomas (HNDs)
Equivalent to the second year of a degree, these level 5 qualifications delve deeper into your chosen subject area and emphasise practical application. To enrol on a HND, you typically require at least a level 3 qualification or a HNC in a related subject. Successful completion will enable you to progress on to university to complete a top-up degree, or allow you to enter employment in industry.
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQ)
Still a relatively new concept, HTQs are level 4 and 5 qualifications that are incredibly career-focused and have been designed by employers to address skills gaps and shortages in industry. They are the new name given to some existing HNCs and HNDs. Completing a HTQ will give you a specific set of knowledge and skills that employers have expressed a need for. To gain entry on to a HTQ, you will need a level 3 qualification in a related subject, or you will need to already have significant industry experience.
Higher Apprenticeships
If learning in the classroom no longer appeals to you, a higher apprenticeship could be a good choice. These combine on-the-job training with academic study, allowing you to earn while you learn and gain practical experience in your chosen field.
Higher apprenticeships offer the potential for speedy career progression within the company you work for, providing a valuable qualification and workplace skills. For more information about this option, contact the college’s helpful Apprenticeships Team on [email protected] or 01925 494 271.
Additional pathways
For those who haven’t achieved the necessary qualifications for entry on to the above higher level qualifications, Warrington & Vale Royal College provide the following additional pathways.
Access to Higher Education
Access to Higher Education (HE) courses are perfect for students who have not yet achieved the relevant level 3 qualifications needed to apply for university or a higher level course. They focus on specific subjects and provide students with the knowledge, skills and qualifications needed. To enrol on an Access to HE course, you will need a grade 4 or above at GCSE maths and English. If you lack one of these qualifications, you can resit this alongside your studies.
Successfully completing an Access to HE course will allow you to progress on to one of the college’s higher level courses, or to university to study an undergraduate degree in your subject.
Pre Access to Higher Education
If you do not have your maths and English GCSE, you can complete the college’s Pre Access to HE course, which allows you to achieve these qualifications and progress on to an Access course.
For more information about the opportunities available to you at Warrington & Vale Royal College, please contact its friendly Learner Services team. You will likely have questions about course content, if and how you need to pay for your course, how to apply, and more – the team will be happy to help you answer any queries you may have. Email: [email protected] or phone: 01925 494 400. Alternatively, you can visit the team in person. To view the college’s opening hours, please visit: wvr.ac.uk
The sooner you contact the college the better – applications remain open but places will fill up fast. Find out more at: wvr.ac.uk/higher-education
