Access to Higher Education Diploma (Midwifery)

If you dream of becoming a midwife, the Access to HE Diploma (Midwifery) will equip you with knowledge you need to apply for a midwifery degree programme. Whilst preparing learners for the challenges of academia, the course will also help students to build a foundation of knowledge in everything from human reproduction to the skeletal system.

Everyday midwives perform the extraordinary job of bringing new life into the world. They regularly develop meaningful relationships with expectant mothers and fathers and provide comfort and reassurance to people when they need it the most. If this sounds like something you could do, studying with Stonebridge could be the perfect option for you.

At Stonebridge, we understand that life is unpredictable and circumstances change. This is why we don’t make our students wait until September to enrol on our online courses. If you want to study with us you can start right away, or at another time that is convenient for you. Our courses have been specially designed to suit people who have been out of formal education for a while. Also, because there are no classes to attend, individuals with family and work commitments can still fit their studies around their schedule. Students are free to finish their qualification in as little as six months or spread their studies out over two years.

How does my Access to HE Diploma work?

Once you have enrolled on your Access to HE Diploma, the rest of the process is pretty self-explanatory. Every student will be provided with a comprehensive set of interactive course materials. Everything we supply is easy to access and easy to understand. As well as this, all of our learners have access to our expert tutors. The tutors we employ are hardworking, approachable and wholly dedicated to student success. If at a student finds themselves struggling or in need of support, they can contact a tutor via phone, email or through our online platform, PEARL.

As this is a distance learning course, students will have to take full responsibility for their own study timetables. This means that they will need to develop the discipline to work independently and learn how to set their own realistic targets. We will also provide you with a learning plan to follow that sets out deadlines to work towards. This may be difficult at first, but with the help of tutors and fellow students, our learners do not take that long to find their feet.

How will my Access to HE Diploma be assessed?

The Access to HE Diploma (Midwifery) will be made up of a number of units and assignments. Once you have completed your first assignment to the best of your ability, you should send it back to one of the tutors for marking. Once they have graded the work and offered feedback, you should begin your next piece, drawing on feedback from the past paper. Once all of the assignments have been handed in and marked, Stonebridge will have sufficient evidence to award you with a number of credits. The Access to HE Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification, regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). In order to achieve this Access to HE Diploma in midwifery, you must achieve 60 credits in total. You should note that 45 of these credits are taken from graded units which are concerned with academic subject content. The remaining 15 credits are earned via taking ungraded units which are included to help you to develop your study skills.

What happens after my Access to HE Diploma?

When you have finished studying your course, you will be able to apply to university. After successfully completing a university degree, you would be able to start working as a fully qualified midwife. As a practicing midwife you will have plenty of opportunities available to you. These include:

• Working for the NHS
• Working in private practice
• Working overseas
• Transferring into a different area of healthcare

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: Cell Biology  

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the cell.
• Understand cellular metabolism.
• Understand how cells grow and divide.

Unit 5:  The History of the National Health Service

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the reasons for the rise in public provision of health care between the mid19th century and 1948.
• Understand the background to and the founding principles of the National Health Service as part of the introduction of the Welfare State.
• Understand the political trends which have shaped the National Health Service since 1948.
• Understand the ethos of the contemporary National Health Service.

Unit 6: Human Reproduction, Growth & Development 

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the structure and function of the human reproductive system
• Understand how hormones regulate the reproductive tract throughout life
• Understand the sequence of events from conception to puberty

Unit 7: The Role of the Midwife in Antenatal

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the roles and responsibilities of the midwife, within the antenatal period.
• Understand the role of the Nursing and Midwifery Council in midwifery regulation, concerning the antenatal period.

Unit 8: 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 9: Human Nutrition & The Digestive System  

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the structure and functions of the organs of the digestive system.
• Understand nutrients and their sources.
• Understand how diet may influence health.

Unit 10: The Role of the Midwife in Intrapartum Care

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the role and responsibilities of the midwife concerning the intrapartum period.
• Understand the role of the Nursing and Midwifery Council in midwifery regulation, concerning the intrapartum period.

Unit 11:  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 12: The Human Musculo-skeletal System

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand anatomical terminology.
• Understand the skeletal system and locomotion.
• Understand the muscular system.

Unit 13: The Role of the Midwife in Postnatal Care

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the roles and responsibilities of the midwife, concerning the postnatal period.
• Understand the role of the Nursing and Midwifery Council in midwifery regulation, concerning the postnatal period.

Unit 14: Human Disease & Prevention   

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand the categories and causes of disease
• Understand the epidemiology of commonly occurring diseases/conditions.
• Understand preventative measures for a chosen disease or condition.

Unit 15: Approaches to Health   

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand how definitions of health and ill health are socially constructed.
• Understand different explanatory models of health and ill health.
• Understand the different ways in which people respond to illness.
• Understand contrasting sociological perspectives on health.

Unit 16: Cell Division & Heredity

On completion of this unit you will:

• Demonstrate a knowledge of cell division.
• Demonstrate an understanding of heredity and genetic variation.

Unit 17: 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.

Unit 18: Human Immunity

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand non-specific defences against disease.
• Understand specific immunity and the immune response.
• Understand the biology of vaccination.
• Understand how immune sensitivity may cause ill-health.
• Understand the formation of covalent bonds.

Unit 19: Equality and Diversity within Health Care   

On completion of this unit you will:

• Understand equality and diversity within health care.
• Understand the rights of the individual in a health care setting.
• Understand the impact of equality and diversity legislation for health care.

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: 0 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 (Midwifery)

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

Requirements for Entry

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 healthcare 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 Diploma units at Merit or 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

This course is currently only available to be studied via the traditional paper-based 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: 0 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.