Access to HE Diploma in Social Work and Education (subject to validation) gives you the opportunity to apply for a degrees in Social Work, Education, Law and other related pathways. This could lead to a career working in various sectors including Education, Youth and Community Work, NHS, private practice, and voluntary sector, specifically working with families, children and young people, the elderly, vulnerable people, and those in crisis.
This course is for you if you don’t have A-levels or the Level 3 qualification that you need to progress to higher education. It is particularly suitable if you have been out of education for a while and need to build your skills and confidence before doing a degree.
You will learn topics such as:
Start Date
September 2026
Entry Requirements & Interview Process
GCSE English Language at Grade C/4 or above or a Functional Skills Level 2 equivalent.
You are also recommended to have GCSE Math’s Grade C/4 or Functional Skills Level 2, however you may undertake GCSE Maths/Functional Skills Maths alongside the Access to HE Diploma.
Progression
It is important to note that successfully completing your Access to HE Diploma does not guarantee you a place at university. It is your responsibility to check that your UCAS application meets the current entry requirements for your university course choices.
Many of our learners progress to undergraduate degrees at local and national universities in social work, education and or dual award honours degrees that include social work as a core element within the curriculum.
Students may also progress onto professional courses offered in our University Centre.
Career Opportunities:
Social Work, Primary Teaching, Secondary Teaching, Care in the Community
Assessment Methods
You will be assessed in a variety of ways including essays, presentations, timed assignments and workbooks. Although there is no formal examination, you are expected to work on assignments in your own time as part of directed study.
This course is highly demanding, both academically and in terms of demands on your time. You will have four taught sessions per week, equating to approximately 12 hours of contact time in College.
In addition, you’ll be expected to participate in independent study to prepare for future lessons and assignments, and it’s advisable that you also have in place suitable vocationally-specific workplace experience, as this will enhance your university application.
Course Fees
Tuition Fee: £3380
Registration Fee: £200
An Advanced Learner Loan is available to cover the cost of the Tuition Fee on this course.
The Registration Fee is a separate fee, which you may not need to pay depending on your circumstances. Advice will be given about this during enrolment.
When you complete a HE qualification the Advanced Learner Loan is written off and you will not need to repay it.
Awarding Body
This course is subject to validation by Open Awards.
Calderdale College has a set of standard entry requirements. Apply for the course you want to study and we will help you get there.
There are a lot of courses available – work focused, practical and academic so it is important to think about the future and whether you want to proceed to university, move onto another course or get a job. We offer BTECs, Apprenticeships, T Levels, NVQs, VRQs, Degree Level Courses and more.
If you’re still not sure, don’t worry, just speak to a member of our advice and guidance team who will advise you.
