Social Work Pathway - Access to Higher Education Diploma

Do you want a career that improves the lives of vulnerable people? Do you have the drive and resilience to make a stand for what is right? Do you currently fall short of the entry requirements for a degree in social work? If you answered yes to all of these questions, an Access to HE Diploma (Social Work) could be the next step for you. Social work is a challenging and fulfilling profession which is in need of meticulous, dedicated workers. If you think you could make it as a social worker, studying with Stonebridge is guaranteed way to make it happen.

The qualification we offer has been designed especially to prepare students for the demands of undergraduate study in a social work field. Stonebridge’s Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Work) provides students with a foundation of knowledge in a number of important areas. Students can expect to study modules in social work theory and practice, psychology and sociology. They will also develop their core study skills by completing units in academic writing and independent research.

Our Access to HE Diploma (Social Work) is a distance learning course. Learning in this way allows you to develop your organisational abilities and become independent thinkers. These qualities will be essential whilst studying towards your degree and even more important when you begin your career in social work. Distance learning also allows you the flexibility you need to succeed. You can study from home, online, at a time that is convenient for you. What’s more is that there are no set classes you must attend. At Stonebridge we believe that student-led learning is the key to success.

How does my Access to HE Diploma work?

Once you have enrolled on your Access to HE Diploma (Social Work), the rest of the process is pretty straightforward. We supply all of our aspiring social workers with all the relevant information and useful study tips. As well as this, you will have unlimited access to our online course materials and the constant help and support of our expert tutors. Our tutors are contactable via phone, email and our online platform, PEARL, and will be there to guide you through study methods and help you if things ever get tough.

Distance learning offers students a great deal of flexibility. This means that our social work students can study where and when they choose. While this type of learning is beneficial for most students, it does take an amount of self-discipline on the student’s behalf. All of our distance learners should make sure they are finding time to get the work done and meeting targets.

How long it takes you to complete your Access course really depends upon how much time you are able to dedicate to your studies. The programmes are designed to give you the flexibility to study at times that are suitable for you, and to fit your studies around your other commitments. The maximum time you have to complete your Diploma is outlined in your Individual Learning Plan (ILP). The minimum time you can complete your Access course is six months.

How will my Access to HE Diploma be assessed?

The Access to HE Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification, regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). For each unit you study in your course, you will be required to complete an assessment. These assessments will be marked and graded by one of our tutors, who will also provide useful feedback to help you improve next time. You will then be awarded a number of credits. In order to achieve the Access to HE Diploma you must achieve 60 credits in total. Of these 60 credits, 45 will be drawn from graded units which are concerned with academic subject content. The remaining 15 credits are ungraded units which are included to help you to refine and build on your study skills.

What happens after the Access to HE Diploma?

After successfully completing your Access to HE Diploma (Social Work), you should be feeling ready to begin studying at an undergraduate level. If you do decide however, that you don’t want to continue studying, your Level 3 qualification will certainly broaden your career prospects.

Those who do go on to complete a HCPC accredited degree course will be eligible to register as qualified social workers. Once that’s done, individuals can begin working to support a variety of people including the elderly, teenagers, young offenders, families, refugees or asylum seekers. Social workers are needed in lots of different sectors. Once you graduate you could be working for:

• An NHS Trust
• A local authority
• The voluntary sector
• Private sector

Syllabus

Unit 1: Preparing to Study

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand how study is organised and planned.
• Understand how to apply theories of learning in relation to personal approaches to learning.
• Understand a range of constraints upon study.
• Understand the importance of assessment feedback.

Unit 2: Academic Writing Skills

On completion of this unit you will:

• Be able to write with relevance in responding to an academic task.
• Know how to interpret and discuss concepts and debates in responding to a set, academic writing task.
• Be able to summarise for academic purposes, selecting key points, information or central ideas.
• Understand the role of reference, allusion and paraphrase to avoid plagiarism.

Unit 3:  Preparing a Written Assignment

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand how to use key information sources.
• Understand why sources are acknowledged and referenced.
• Understand a range of reading strategies.
• Understand note-making methods.
• Understand how to plan draft and produce a written assignment.

Unit 4: Independent Research

On completion of this unit you will:

• Be able to plan a piece of research on an approved subject area.
• Be able to collect research material from different sources.
• Be able to use data to substantiate an argument.
• Be able to record sources of information.
• Be able to present research findings.

Unit 5: Progressing to Higher Education

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand potential next steps in education.
• Understand key sources of information relevant to HE application.
• Understand personal HE opportunities.
• Understand the financial implications of further study.
• Know how to apply for a course.

Unit 6:  Introduction To Sociology

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the sociological approach and its distinction from common sense and other social sciences.
• Understand basic concepts in sociological explanation.
• Understand contrasting sociological perspectives.
• Understand concepts and perspectives relating to a specific social institution.

Unit 7:  Social Factors in Health Care

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand sociological factors influencing the relationships between patients and health professionals.
• Understand the role of social motivational factors in health and ill health.
• Understand the significance of social support networks in health care and maintenance.

Unit 8: Poverty & Health

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand definitions of and explanations for poverty and health.
• Understand approaches to poverty and health.
• Understand the approaches to the social distribution of health chances.

Unit 9: Sociology of Health

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand concepts and models of health.
• Understand the social construction of health and ill health.
• Understand alternative approaches to health.

Unit 10: Sociology of the Family

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand changes in family structure.
• Understand sociological explanations of the family to include functionalist, Marxist, feminist and interactionist views. 
• Understand the nature and extent of changes within the family, with reference to gender roles, domestic labour and power relationships. 
• Understand changing patterns of marriage, divorce, separation and child rearing. 

Unit 11:  Introduction to Social Work

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the historical development of social work.
• Understand the roles and tasks of social workers.
• Understand the legal basis of social work.
• Understand how social work services are organised in the statutory, voluntary and independent sector.
• Understand the main purposes and values of social work.

Unit 12:  Morals and Ethics in Social Work

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand ethics and ethical issues in social work practice.
• Understand moral dilemmas and social work practice.

Unit 13:  Anti-Oppressive Practice

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the legal framework which identifies rights and responsibilities in relation to equal opportunities.
• Understand how individuals can be affected by oppression.
• Understand society’s and own stereotypes.
• Understand the use of positive action incountering oppression.

Unit 14: Combating Prejudice & Discrimination

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand theoretical explanations for prejudice and discrimination.
• Understand legislative responses to discrimination and prejudice.
• Understand community initiatives in

Unit 15:  Personal Social Services

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the development of social care in Britain and the importance of legislation since 1945.
• Understand the varying nature of social work provision for children and adults.
• Understand the role of the independent sector in the provision of welfare.
• Understand the welfare requirements of various groups.

Unit 16:  Contemporary Issues in Social Policy

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand current issues in social policy. 
• Understand current legislation in relation to current issues in social policy. 
• Understand the economic context of a contemporary issue. 

Unit 17:  Foundations of Social Policy 

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the historical origins of social policy in the U.K.
•  Understand the key influences on social policy in the 18th and 19th Centuries. 
• Understand changes in the political order. 
• Understand different types of voluntary action and role of poverty surveys. 

Unit 18: The Origins of The Welfare State

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand what is meant by the term social welfare.
• Know the purpose of the 1834 Poor Law Amendment Act and its effects on society.
• Explain and discuss early twentieth century Liberal Reforms and their effect on society.
• Recognise the significance of the Beveridge Report.
• Recognise the social problems which the Welfare State attempted to address.

Unit 19: Introduction to Psychology   

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the importance of research in psychology
• Understand the main approaches in psychology.
• Understand ethical issues in psychological research.

Unit 20: The Brain & Nervous System   

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the major sub divisions of the nervous system.
• Understand the structure and function of glial cells and neurons.

Study Hours

This is only an approximate figure and is dependant upon how much time you can dedicate to your studies and how well you grasp the learning concepts in the course material. Furthermore, at the end of each lesson there is a question paper that needs to be completed and returned to your tutor. You should allow at least 1 - 2 hours of study to complete each question paper.

The approximate amount of time required to complete the course is: 360 hrs.

The Access to Higher Education (A2HE) Consortium is a group of organisations who work together to promote and deliver excellence within the A2HE experience. By working in partnership the A2HE Education Consortium is able to call upon the significant expertise of each partner organisation to deliver the best possible learning journey and experience for our A2HE learners.

Access to Higher Education courses are ideal for learners wanting to start a university course but that have no formal qualifications. By working in partnership the A2HE Consortium is able to:

• Recruit, signpost and navigate learners through their decision to register on an A2HE programme of study.
• Provide learners with the most comprehensive Information, Advice and Guidance prior to registration.
• Provide learners with a range of funding options including; payment in full, payment using consumer credit and payment using a government backed Advanced Learning Loan.
• Give learners access to cutting edge technology to support the delivery of their A2HE programme.
• Allow learners to customise their A2HE programme so that it is bespoke to their own learning needs, challenges them throughout and delivers additional learning in areas such as Maths, English and Soft Skills (Confidence, Resilience, Team working etc.).
• Learners access high quality learning materials that are rich and engaging supported by a team of committed and talented tutors and assessors.
• Course accreditation and certification from Open College Network West Midlands, a QAA (Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education) licenced Access Validating Agency (AVA).

Who are the partners?

The Stonebridge Group (SAC) The Stonebridge Group of Training Companies is a conglomerate of 6 separate independent training providers established in 1997 and continually growing. Currently the group trains more than 70,000 learners per annum in a wide range of subjects areas from A-Levels to Web Design and IT with everything in-between. The Group currently employs almost 200 staff who work in all areas including learner recruitment, course development, course delivery, admin, finance and tutorial support Stonebridge Associated Colleges are currently a Gold Trusted Merchant with an average Service Rating of over 98% from 854 Independent Feefo Reviews. The Group specialises in training, digital marketing and learner recruitment including advice and guidance to ensure the right learners are placed on the right programme of study. Please click here for more information
Pearltech UK Ltd (PEARL) PEARL (Personalised e-Assisted Responsive Learning) is uniquely innovative Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) that delivers customised and responsive learning based on individual learner’s needs. The system is available entirely online which means that learners can access all aspects of their learning, assessment and eportfolio 24/7 and from any location in the World using a variety of devices. Pearl encourages learner development beyond academic skills and includes proprietary responsive algorithms which present different learning exercises or challenges unique to each learner. This means that every learner has the ability to customise their course and to enrich their learning experience.
Enabling Development Opportunities Ltd (EDO) EDO has been working with businesses and learners since 2007. The team of directors and staff have decades of experience in skills training. All learners are supported throughout their studies by a talented group of tutors and assessors who are responsible for ensuring that all learners on the A2HE programmes are supported in a way that makes them feel “special” and gives them the best possible chance of succeeding. As part of the A2HE Consortium, EDO are responsible for delivering the training and accessing Advanced Learning Loan (if required) funding for learners. EDO also quality assure the programmes and claim the final certificate for learners from Open College Network West Midlands on successful completion of the A2HE programme. Please click here for more information

The Advanced Learning Loan (ALL) Consortium is a group of organisations who work together to promote and deliver excellence within the ALL experience. By working in partnership the ALL Education Consortium is able to call upon the significant expertise of each partner organisation to deliver the best possible learning journey and experience for our Advanced Learning Loan learners.

Advanced Learner Loan funding is ideal for learners who are not able to fund their own learning and are seeking a government backed loan in order to do so. By working in partnership the ALL Consortium is able to:

• Recruit, signpost and navigate learners through their decision to register on a programme of study using an Advanced Learning Loan.
• Provide learners with the most comprehensive Information, Advice and Guidance prior to registration.
• Provide learners with a range of funding options including; payment in full, payment using consumer credit and payment using a government backed Advanced Learning Loan.
• Give learners access to cutting edge technology to support the delivery of their Advanced Learning Loan funded programme.
• Allow learners to customise their Advanced Learning Loan funded programme so that it is bespoke to their own learning needs, challenges them throughout and delivers additional learning in areas such as Maths, English and Soft Skills (Confidence, Resilience, Team working etc.).
• Learners access high quality learning materials that are rich and engaging supported by a team of committed and talented tutors and assessors.
• Course accreditation and certification from various Ofqual regulated Awarding Bodies.

Who are the partners?

The Stonebridge Group (SAC) The Stonebridge Group of Training Companies is a conglomerate of 6 separate independent training providers established in 1997 and continually growing. Currently the group trains more than 70,000 learners per annum in a wide range of subjects areas from A-Levels to Web Design and IT with everything in-between. The Group currently employs almost 200 staff who work in all areas including learner recruitment, course development, course delivery, admin, finance and tutorial support Stonebridge Associated Colleges are currently a Gold Trusted Merchant with an average Service Rating of over 98% from 854 Independent Feefo Reviews. The Group specialises in training, digital marketing and learner recruitment including advice and guidance to ensure the right learners are placed on the right programme of study. Please click here for more information
Pearltech UK Ltd (PEARL) PEARL (Personalised e-Assisted Responsive Learning) is uniquely innovative Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) that delivers customised and responsive learning based on individual learner’s needs. The system is available entirely online which means that learners can access all aspects of their learning, assessment and eportfolio 24/7 and from any location in the World using a variety of devices. Pearl encourages learner development beyond academic skills and includes proprietary responsive algorithms which present different learning exercises or challenges unique to each learner. This means that every learner has the ability to customise their course and to enrich their learning experience.
Dimensions Training Solutions (DTS) DTS was originally formed in 1973 and has been responsible for training thousands of apprentices and adult learners since then. DTS aim to help learners broaden their skills, gain knowledge; build on experience, to make a positive change to their career and life with dozens of apprenticeships and distance learning QCF courses that can really kick start a new career. Judged Good by OFSTED in October 2015: Just some of the reasons why DTS are a GOOD Training provider, very close to OUTSTANDING, but we don’t like to brag... Learners really enjoy their learning Effective employer involvement helps learners to link work-related activities well with their qualification Good quality workplaces, with a diverse range of clients Highly effective development of Apprentices’ English & Maths skills Employers provide a high quality working environment Consistent, high level of achievement for learners As part of the ALL Consortium, DTS are responsible for delivering the training and accessing the Advanced Learning Loan (if required) funding for learners. DTS also quality assure the programmes and claim the final certificate for learners from the relevant awarding body on successful completion of the programme. Please click here for more information

What's included

What's Included

• All study materials
• Study Guide
• Full Tutor and Admin support
• The course fee includes the awarding body registration and certification fee (valued at up to £96.00).

Qualifications

Qualification: Open College Network West Midlands Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Work)

Requirements for Entry

Learners must have a GCSE in Maths and English (or an equivalent), a relevant nvq at level 2 or above and aspire to study a Social Work related degree at university.

Access to Higher Education Diplomas are widely accepted as an alternative to 'A Levels' for University admission. The programmes have a track record of success in helping students to gain admission to University.

Learners should, however, be aware that Universities each apply their own admissions criteria, and these vary broadly depending on the reputation and popularity of the university and of the degree programme that relates to your area of interest.

These ‘variable’ admission criteria may include but are not limited to:

1. Achievement of a certain amount of Access to HE units at Merit of above.
2. Successful completion of a face-to-face interview at the University
3. Successful completion of literacy and numeracy assessments by the University.
4. Completion of specific unpaid  ‘work experience’ or a previous ‘job role’.
5. Prior attainment of GCSE English and/or Maths Science – Or equivalents, such as Functional/Key Skills at Level 2, NVQ Certificate in a related subject at Level 2 etc.

It is vitally important that each student investigates the entry requirements of a range of universities that they could practically attend to determine if the diploma and unit choices within meet each set of entry requirements. 

Students should complete this exercise as early as possible so that they can plan for which establishment they will be applying to, and start to work towards it.

Whilst we have the fullest confidence that the Access to Higher Education Diplomas are compliant and perfectly sufficient to form part of a University application, DTS will not be able to accept any liability for the inability of any Access to Higher Education learner to secure an offer from a Higher Education establishment due to the ‘variables’ involved.

Professional Membership

On completion of this course you will be eligible to join the following Professional Associations(s):

Open College Network West Midlands

Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.

 

Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.

 

Professional Membership

On completion of this course you will be eligible to join the following Professional Associations(s):

Open College Network West Midlands

Open College Network West Midlands are a national Awarding Organisation, regulated by Ofqual, the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and Qualifications Wales, to develop and award nationally recognised qualifications.

 

Open College Network West Midlands work in partnership with employers, training providers, colleges, universities, schools and voluntary and community organisations to offer vocational credit-based qualifications, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and quality assured Customised Accreditation that enables learners gain employment or to progress into further learning and Higher Education. They also Quality Endorse organisations internal training and skills delivery.

 

Career Transition Partnership (CTP)

We are proud to be working with Career Transition Partnetship (CTP) as a CTP Preferred Suplier. We are able to offer ex-service personnel access to funding for our whole range of military resettlement courses.

As a CTP Preferred Supplier we are able to accept your IRTC (Individual Resettlement Training Costs) grant or ELC (Enhanced Learning Credits) for any of the following courses:

• Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA)
• Beauty Therapy (Massage Route) Dual Course
• Business Administration
• Certificate in Education and Training
• Counselling Skills
• Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator)
• Foot Health Care Practitioner
• Health and Social Care (Adults)
• Hospitality Supervision and Leadership
• Playwork (NVQ)
• Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
• Principles of Customer Service course
• Principles of End of Life Care Course
• Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools
• Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Certificate

If you are ex-service personnel and would like more information on how to claim this funding, please contact the college or speak to your Service Resettlement Advisor.

For more information on CTP, please visit www.ctp.org.uk

Study Options

In order to offer our students the most convenient and flexible distance learning courses, Stonebridge Associated College offers you the option to study for your course via two methods:

• 1. Via the traditional paper-based method.
• 2. Through the online method.

Study Hours

This is only an approximate figure and is dependant upon how much time you can dedicate to your studies and how well you grasp the learning concepts in the course material. Furthermore, at the end of each lesson there is a question paper that needs to be completed and returned to your tutor. You should allow at least 1 - 2 hours of study to complete each question paper.

The approximate amount of time required to complete the course is: 360 hrs.

Further Information

If you would like any further information regarding this course, please call an advisor today on 0121 392 8288 ( or email enquiries@stonebridge.uk.com

Tutor Support

With this course you will have unlimited access to your own personal tutor who specialises in their field of study. It is your personal tutor's role to ensure that you receive constructive feedback and to deal with any queries you may have. You are more than welcome to telephone, fax or email your personal tutor.

You will also have access to a dedicated and friendly team of administrators and course advisors who offer sound and professional guidance and advice when you need it. This ensures that you will never feel neglected and that you will always succeed!

Assessment Method

After each lesson there will be a question paper, which needs to be completed and submitted to your personal tutor for marking. This method of continual assessment ensures that your personal tutor can consistently monitor your progress and provide you with assistance throughout the duration of the course.

Student Zone

We understand that studying from home may be a new experience for you. You may even be feeling a bit apprehensive because you will not be studying in a traditional "classroom environment".

To help you overcome these concerns we have developed the Student Zone. The Student Zone, to which all of our students receive access, encourages a high level of interaction with your tutor and other like-minded students. Within this area you can:

• Access the Student Learning Community which allows you to connect with fellow students and gain the help and support you need.
• View your tutor's feedback on your marked assignments.
• View optional reading lists for your course (where available).
• Access free online games, for when you need a break from studying.
• View the study guide with plenty of useful hints and tips on how to get the most out of your course.
• Access free courses such as: Improving Learning Skills; Job Interview Skills; The Effective Learner; Goal Setting and Time Management; and Ten Tips to Complete a Good Test Paper.
• Find details on our generous Referral Programme.
And don’t forget our Facebook page where you will find tips, resources, games, competitions, and plenty of engagement and interaction from fellow students.