Many adults can study this course for free. Check the 'Can I study for free?' section below to see if you're eligible.
This course is for students who are 19 or above. This course is a preparation for entry to a degree or Higher Diploma course in health care including Nursing, Midwifery, Paramedics, Operations Dept Practitioner, Occupational Therapy and other related health care professions.
Credits are awarded for the Access course modules. To achieve the Access Diploma, you must gain all 60 credits, including a minimum of 45 credits from 13 graded modules at Level 3, which includes two biology modules worth 6 credits each. 15 credits are gained from 5 ungraded developmental modules to improve your academic and personal skills. The Access to HE Diploma is awarded by openawards.org.
You must be 19 or over on or before 31st August to study on this course.
To study a Level 3 qualification, you will need:
Level 2 Functional Skills English and Maths or GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above
Satisfactory interview and/or assessment, where other requirements for progression to higher education courses will be discussed
If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.
Degree or Higher Diploma courses in health related subjects, such as Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedics etc. Obtaining the Access to HE Diploma in Nursing and Allied Health Professions does not guarantee entry into any HE course.
Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.
I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.
I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.
Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.
I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.
