Go higher. UNIVERSITY-LEVEL programme Guide banbury and bicester college city of oxford college reading college

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1 1 Go higher UNIVERSITY-LEVEL programme Guide 2014 banbury and bicester college city of oxford college reading college

2 2 1 transform Activate Learning is the new group name for the Oxford & Cherwell Valley College Group (OCVC). At Activate Learning, we transform lives through learning. Our colleges use a collaborative approach so that students, tutors (the experts in teaching and learning) and business leaders co-create curricula and build industry-relevant career pathways. A focus on enterprise and entrepreneurship means that our students develop real-life business skills which give them the edge in a competitive jobs market. Activate Learning brings together secondary, further and higher education, along with workforce training, management consultancy, commercial businesses and social enterprise. Activate Learning colleges include: Banbury and Bicester College City of Oxford College Reading College

3 2 Hello and welcome 3 Contents Hello and welcome Hello and welcome 3 Go higher with university-level education 4 Activate Learning colleges 6 Congratulations on taking the decision to invest in your future with a degree-level qualification. We are delighted that you are considering doing this with Activate Learning. Get going: how to apply 8 Checkpoints: a step-by-step guide to applying through UCAS 9 Money matters: fees, finances and other essentials 10 Go higher 13 Art, design and media 14 Business 21 Caring and health 22 Computing 24 Construction 26 Engineering 29 Furniture 32 Motorsports 35 Policing 37 Sport 38 Teaching 41 Notes 42 Activate Learning are specialists in vocational education and dedicated to creating inspirational, life-changing learning opportunities for people in Oxfordshire and Berkshire. We re very proud to present this range of high quality vocational degree and higher national diploma programmes at our three colleges: City of Oxford College, Reading College, and Banbury and Bicester College. As you already know, the higher education and employment landscapes have changed dramatically in recent years. University fees have risen and the economic climate is, to say the least, challenging. This means that when you choose a higher education programme, you don t do it lightly. The programme must deliver a return on your investment so you gain the academic, personal and professional skills that will help you to achieve your career goals. Our Colleges will give you this. Our foundation degree and honours degree programmes are delivered in partnership with - and accredited by - leading local universities including Oxford Brookes University and Bucks New University. Our HND/HNC programmes are accredited by Edexcel. This means that you get more than universitylevel education. You get the employability skills that are directly relevant to your career too. I am extremely proud of our increasing higher education provision. It makes best use of our specialist vocational facilities, and is delivered in a more personalised, collaborative manner which suits your individual needs better. I wish you every success with your next step and I look forward to seeing you soon. Sally Dicketts Group Chief Executive, Activate Learning

4 4 Go higher with university-level education 5 Go higher with university-level education Activate Learning colleges in Oxford, Banbury, Bicester and Reading specialise in vocational education. We work very closely with employers to deliver training that meets the real needs of the workplace. Our teaching and learning is career-focused and linked to real work opportunities. As a result of our expertise in vocational training, we deliver university-level programmes in partnership with local universities. Students train at college for a qualification that is verified and awarded by a university or other higher education body. Entering university-level education through college instead of university is an increasingly popular choice but why? Here are some of the reasons why students choose to study with us. Employability According to a UCAS survey, the subject of study is the most important factor in choosing a programme. Employability that is, the opportunity to find and sustain employment after study is the next most important. This is where we excel. Our teaching and learning has a vocational, career-focused approach. We are specialists in vocational training and all of our higher education programmes have been developed in consultation with employers, such as Thames Valley Police and the National Health Service, and HE institutions such as Oxford Brookes University and Bucks New University. We want to ensure that you graduate with the skills and attributes that employers want, and that our communities need. Individual support You will typically be in a small class with industry-experienced lecturers, which means you get individual attention and support. University degrees Our foundation degrees and honours degrees are accredited and awarded by partner universities in our region, such as Oxford Brookes University and Bucks New University. Resources Enrolling on a higher education programme which leads to a university award means you will have access to resources at the university as well as the College. You can use their facilities. Quality assured In the latest review from the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), Oxford & Cherwell Valley College was awarded the highest possible outcome for its management of higher education. Although the information in this guide is correct at the time of going to press, we may extend our partnerships to deliver more degrees. Please visit to find out more about the September 2014 programmes. To help make everything clear, here is some information on terminology and qualification levels within higher education. If you have any questions, please call our HE Admissions Co-ordinator on or HE@activatelearning.ac.uk BA (Hons) a one-year full-time/two-year part-time programme that enables students who have already achieved a foundation degree to top-up to a full honours degree. Clearing a process for finding a university place if you do not have one. If you applied for university after 30 June, did not receive (and accept) an offer or your exam results did not meet the conditions of your offer, you need to go through clearing to try and find a university place. This service is run by UCAS from July to September. Fd foundation degree. Academic study with a work-based element, equivalent to the first two years of an honours degree. Students can do an additional (third) year of study and convert Qualification Level HNC (Higher National Certificate) Level 4 HND (Higher National Diploma) Level 5 FD (Foundation Degree) Level 5 BA (Hons) Degree Level 6 PGCE Level 6 (Professional Graduate Certificate in Education) PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) Level 7 the qualification to an honours degree. HE higher education. Qualifications are accredited and awarded either by universities, e.g. the foundation degree, or by Edexcel, e.g. HND. HNC Higher National Certificate. A two-year Level 4 programme which teaches skills for specific jobs/careers, and can be put towards a full honours degree. HND Higher National Diploma. A two-year Level 5 programme which teaches skills for specific jobs/careers, and can be put towards a full honours degree. UCAS Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. QAA Quality Assurance Agency Affordability Affordability is a huge benefit. By studying at your local FE college you can live at home and save thousands of pounds on accommodation costs. The programme fees are lower too.

5 6 Activate Learning colleges 7 Activate Learning colleges Banbury and Bicester College Banbury programmes HND in Creative Media Production HND in Graphic Design Fd (Arts) Early Years Fd (Arts) in Creative Arts and Design Practice BA (Hons) in Creative Arts and Design Practice* PGCE Banbury and Bicester College Bicester programmes Fd (Science) in Motorsports: Performance and Automotive Technology City of Oxford College Oxford programmes Fd (Arts) in Business and Enterprise Fd (Arts) in Furniture: Design and Make Fd (Science) in Health and Social Care Fd (Arts) in Policing Manchester Fd (Science) in Sports Coaching, Fitness and Rehabilitation* BA (Hons) Degree in Furniture: Design and Make PGCE Birmingham Stratford-upon-Avon Banbury Oxford Cardiff Bristol Bath Bicester Reading Winchester London Cambridge Reading College programmes HNC in Computing and Systems Development HNC in Construction HNC in Electrical and Electronic Engineering HNC in Mechanical Engineering HND in Computing and Systems Development HND in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Fd (Arts) in Business and Enterprise Fd (Arts) in Creative Arts and Design Practice Fd (Arts) in Policing* PGCE *subject to validation

6 8 Checkpoints: a step-by-step guide to applying through UCAS 9 Get going: how to apply The application method for a university-level programme depends on whether you want to study full time or part time. Full-time study For full-time higher education you need to apply through UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). UCAS manages all full-time applications to higher education institutions in the UK. UCAS codes Each institution has a code. The institution is the awarding body for the qualification for example, Oxford Brookes University (code O66). Each programme has a code. This denotes the programme itself and the location where the programme is taught. You will need these codes when you apply through UCAS. These codes are listed with each programme in this guide. UCAS application fees There is a fee for applications to university places. If you apply for one programme, the fee is 12. If you apply for 2 5 programmes, the fee is 23. Part-time study Please note: to apply for part-time higher education programmes including the HNC (Higher National Certificate), you apply directly to the College not UCAS. Step-by-step guide to applying through UCAS (full-time study) Let s say you want to apply for the Foundation Degree in Creative Arts and Design Practice delivered in Banbury in September This is what you do: 1. Go to the UCAS homepage 2. Select search for courses on the UCAS homepage 3. Enter the title of the programme under subject 4. Select I normally live in 5. Select 2014, then search 6. Select Oxford Brookes University (they are the awarding body) 7. You will see that there are 2 relevant programmes listed click to view 8. Select the one you want for example, Activate Learning (Banbury and Bicester) 9. Select How to apply 10. Select UCAS 11. Complete the application form Step-by-step guide to applying through College (part-time study) You can apply online for a HNC, a PGCE or a part-time foundation degree. Just go to: Then complete the form and submit. For further information about applying to any of our higher education programmes, please contact the HE Admissions Coordinator on or HE@activatelearning.ac.uk Checkpoints: a step-by-step guide to applying through UCAS Remember that it is important to do your research before applying for higher education programmes. Take time to visit the institution(s) to make sure you feel comfortable before accepting an offer. When Research February to July Applying September to January Deadline 1 mid October Application reminder mid December Loans mid January Offers/acceptances January to May Results July to August Clearing August to September What you need to do Make sure you research your options carefully. Try and visit university and college open days which will help you decide what and where you would really like to study. Applications are made to UCAS during this period and are submitted online. The college careers and student services team will help you with your application and with writing your personal statement, which is the most important part. This is the deadline for applications to Oxford, Cambridge and all medicine, dentistry and veterinary choices (but not nursing). By this time you should have paid your fee to UCAS and submitted your finished application. The sooner you can get your application in the better! You should apply for your student loan as soon as the process opens in January. Don t wait until you have received any offers as this could delay your loans. There are two available: one to pay your tuition fee and one to help with living expenses. This is when universities and colleges will make decisions on applications and send out offers to applicants. When you have received all of your offers, you will need to make one of them your firm offer (the one you most want) and make one an insurance offer (a back-up choice in case you don t meet the requirements for your first choice). Don t miss the date to respond otherwise your choices will be cancelled. BTEC results are sent out from mid-july and A-level results are released in mid-august. If you receive your results and they meet the conditions of your firm offer, then you don t need to do anything else, your place is secured. If you aren t going to meet the conditions of your firm or insurance offers it s still worth contacting the institution if you were close to the offer grade and asking if they will still accept you. If you weren t holding any offers, you have the option of entering clearing. This is the process where students are matched with institutions who still have places remaining, see for more information.

7 10 Money matters: fees, finances and other essentials 11 Money matters: fees, finances and other essentials As a higher education student, you will need to pay tuition fees. However, you do NOT need to pay everything upfront. You may be able to pay in instalments. Or you can apply for a loan to help spread the costs. Student loans If you re studying full time, you can take out two student loans per academic year: a tuition fee loan to cover your annual tuition fees in full a maintenance loan to help with accommodation and other living costs (how much you get will depend on your household income) When you are assessed for your fees, you are automatically assessed for a student loan. Tuition fee loans The tuition fee loan is available to cover the tuition fees for HNDs, foundation degrees or BA (Hons) degrees. You only start to pay the loan back when you earn over 21,000 per year. You repay 9% of your income above 21,000 only. So if your salary was 25,000, you repayment for the year is 9% of 4,000 around 30 per month. If your salary falls below 21,000 for example if you take a career break or are unemployed your repayments stop. Repayments only start again when you are earning over 21,000 again. If you have not repaid your loan after 30 years, it is written off. Part-time students can apply for a tuition fee loan too. Payment without loans You might get financial help from your university or college with a bursary. Bursaries do not have to be paid back. If you are paying your own tuition fees, an instalment plan can be arranged. Just contact our HE Admissions Coordinator on or HE@activatelearning.ac.uk Financial information If you are a new student, or you need any further advice, visit the government s student finance web site: It is the best source of information for all student finance enquiries. If you have any other questions, contact us for our up-to-date tuition fee information. Call or HE@activatelearning.ac.uk

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9 14 Art, design and media 15 Art, design and media HND in Creative Media Production Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) Location: Banbury and Bicester college, Banbury campus UCAS code: 013P Institution code: O25 (Activate Learning) This programme will provide you with the opportunity to combine the process of media production with the professional working environment. Skills will focus predominantly on you as a creator and producer, as well as ensuring you have the opportunity to experience an experimental approach to your work. Through various encounters, a broad perspective of the industry in the community will be achieved. We will provide an educational foundation for a range of creative, technical and management careers in media, and ensure our delivery is geared towards current practice using industry-standard equipment. We will include a broad range of activities that encourage synergy with different media products. We will also provide excellent academic underpinning skills for creative thinking and enable students to be employment-ready by working on key projects that seek to make an immediate contribution to employment. THE COURSE HAS BEEN EDUCATIONAL, INSPIRING AND STIMULATING Learning activities include lectures, workshops and practical sessions, located in the TV studio and Creative Arts Centre. It is envisaged that you will work on location and with industry professionals in order to fully appreciate work related experience A strong emphasis is placed on working and learning with others and you are regularly set tasks to complete in partnership with other students. There is also a significant emphasis on you being able to work independently and take responsibility for your own learning during your time on the HND. Tuition fees are online at To apply, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page.

10 16 Art, design and media 17 HND in Graphic Design Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) Location: Banbury and Bicester college, Banbury campus UCAS code: W210 Institution code: 025 (Activate Learning) This programme is for individuals who are ready to challenge themselves and become an employment-ready independent creative practitioner. It will provide an opportunity to develop the skills to compete in the workplace in the graphic design industry. It has a multidisciplinary approach to ensure you have the appropriate expertise to thrive in the competitive world of work. The programme includes the study of illustration, typography, advertising, studio photography, web design, packaging, editorial design and printmaking, with an emphasis on digital media and industry standard software. We will encourage imagination, innovation and experimentation through a wide range of assignments that have been developed using our established relationships with graphic design companies. We believe that students need as much real working experience as possible to survive and be successful in this competitive market. Our programme has been specifically designed to enable our students to develop their creativity in a number of key projects. Students work involves submissions both for national competitions and live client projects on an ongoing basis. This is supported by visits to acclaimed exhibitions, and visits from practising designers who actively assist students with their work in our state of the art graphic design studios. The programme will also include input from a number of guest speakers, industry professionals and dedicated higher education staff, working collaboratively to ensure that talent is recognised, utilised and developed appropriately. A key part of the programme will be to ensure you have a work-based experience within the second year of the programme. Successful completion will enable students to work professionally in the design industry from initial concept to final presentation, leading to possible careers in graphic design, illustration, advertising, print, web design and new media, publishing, marketing and editorial design. Tuition fees are online at To apply, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. GREAT GETTING EXPERIENCE OF DOING LIVE CLIENT BRIEFS, WHICH WILL PROVIDE GOOD EXPERIENCE FOR FUTURE JOBS

11 18 Art, design and media 19 Foundation Degree (Arts) in Creative Arts and Design Practice BA (Hons) Creative Arts and Design Practice* Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) 3 years (part time) Location: Banbury and Bicester college, Banbury campus UCAS code: WW12 Location: Reading College UCAS code: WW1F Institution code: O66 (Oxford Brookes University) The foundation degree is a direct response to the recognition that creativity is an increasingly valued skill actively sought by employers in the modern workplace. The programme in Creative Arts and Design Practice is flexible, allowing students to explore a broad range of creative disciplines whilst supporting individual creative pathways. The aim is to create a professional working environment to boost student confidence in their abilities and ensure our graduates are industry ready and prepared for the real world. Typically, the full-time programme will be delivered over three days a week and the part-time programme over one and a half days a week. Upon successful completion you will be awarded a Foundation Degree in Creative Arts and Design Practice from Oxford Brookes University. Upon successful completion of the programme, you will have a number of opportunities for progression into employment within the creative industry. The College is also developing a BA (Hons) Creative Arts and Design Practice programme for September 2014 (subject to validation), which will enable successful graduates of the foundation degree to top up to an honours degree though one more year of study. Tuition fees are online at and To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. For part-time study, please apply online. THE TEACHING STAFF ARE VERY HELPFUL AND CLEARLY ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT WHAT THEY TEACH Level: 6 Duration: 1 year (full time) 2 years (part time) Location: Banbury and Bicester college, Banbury campus reading College UCAS code: TBC Institution code: O66 (Oxford Brookes University) This programme provides a progression route for students who successfully complete the Foundation Degree in Creative Arts and Design Practice awarded by Oxford Brookes University. It is equally suitable for students that have completed specialist HNDs such as Graphic Design, Photography, Textiles, Fine Art and Media This programme allows students to extend and consolidate their studies and to further develop individual interests and specialisms supported by our broad range of specialist staff. The programme allows students to develop their own practice whilst working collaboratively with other disciplines in college. Students will develop skills that will equip them to respond to changing economic conditions, to develop an ability to work in different environments and to seek out diverse opportunities within the creative industries. Students are encouraged to be adaptable, flexible and able to work with a broad range of people in different contexts. We also promote entrepreneurial activities supporting students in seeking out opportunities for themselves and others. Learning is supported through close contact with a range of creative specialists with access to specialist workshops and studios. This allows us to promote individuality and tailor the programme to suit individual needs. Students will be encouraged to develop an awareness of current research and practice through lectures, seminars and tutorials, and access to international research in the field of Creative Arts through library resources at the College and Oxford Brookes University. Case study examples and lecturers own research will also be used, as appropriate, throughout the programme. Students will become part of a community of creative people studying at Oxford Brookes University, Banbury and Reading Colleges. In Banbury we also have Associate Artists and an Artist in Residence scheme. Expected career destinations for graduates includes being employed/self employed as graphic designers, textile designers, makers, illustrators or photographers, gallery and museum-related employment, and communitybased project work. In addition, it is expected that some graduates will wish to pursue further study at postgraduate level either in a specific discipline or to pursue a career in teaching. Tuition fees are online at and To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. For part-time study, please apply online. *subject to validation

12 20 Business 21 Business Foundation Degree (Arts) in Business and Enterprise Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) 3 years (part time) Location: City of Oxford College UCAS code: N102 Location: Reading College UCAS code: N190 Institution code: O66 (Oxford Brookes University) This work-based programme will develop the knowledge and skills you need for a career in business or enterprise development. With input from regional and local employers and expert staff, and drawing on your previous and current work experience, the programme has been designed to develop your understanding of business and innovation principles. Taught at Oxford and Reading campuses, this foundation degree has been designed to prepare you to operate in the world of business, while developing an understanding of the nature of enterprise and its fit within a range of business environments. The Business strand of the programme seeks to equip you with an understanding of the scope and functions of business, as well as an appreciation of the internal and external environments in which businesses operate. The Enterprise strand explores the concepts and theories of enterprise and entrepreneurship, while examining organisational behaviour, the nature of creativity and the concepts of management and decision making. Alongside these practice-based strands, the programme also develops your professional, academic and research skills. In your first year, you will be introduced to areas such as critical thinking and academic writing. In the second year, you will focus on research skills and developing skills of enquiry in preparation for your business project (which will be focused on your workplace). This will also help prepare you for your honours component (e.g. dissertation) should you decide to progress on to the final year of the BA (Hons) Business and Management programme, delivered at Oxford Brookes University. Upon successful completion you will be awarded a Foundation Degree in Business and Enterprise from Oxford Brookes University. Tuition fees are online at and To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. For part-time study, please apply online.

13 22 Caring and health 23 Caring and health Foundation Degree (Arts) in Early Years Foundation Degree (Science) in Health and Social Care Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) Location: Banbury and Bicester college, Banbury campus UCAS code: X320 Institution code: O66 (Oxford Brookes University) Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) Location: City of Oxford College UCAS code: L512 FdSc/HESC Institution code: O66 (Oxford Brookes University) The programme has been designed in conjunction with employers and will therefore build on your current experience in an Early Years setting. It reflects a growing interest in the importance of education of very young children, bringing together clear links between theory and practice through underpinning knowledge and practical skills, in a broader environmental context. The programme is designed for practitioners who are working in early years settings, for example in pre-schools, nurseries, children s centres, with families or in schools, who would like to build on their practical experience in the workplace. It will examine theories of child development, play and learning, psychology, sociology and health care with a cultural, national and international perspective. You will be provided with a suitably equipped place to work when attending college, which will include access to specialist staff, IT facilities and other learning resources which will be appropriate for the nature of work you will be required to undertake. Additionally, the College offers a wide range of other resources and facilities including additional learning support, which will be available to you, further details of which can found in the Higher Education Student Handbook. As well as being enrolled at Banbury and Bicester College you will also be registered and enrolled with Oxford Brookes University and so will benefit from the same facilities and services as the on campus students. These include: use of Brookes libraries, Centre for Sport and Students Union, study support and mentoring and professional advice and information from Brookes Career and Employment Centre. Tuition fees are online at To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. For part-time study, please apply online. This highly flexible foundation degree is ideal for all employees or volunteers in a health and social care setting, including the NHS. The programme combines both classroom study and work-based learning (in your current place of work), and is delivered in partnership with local health and social care employers. Our aim is to develop your knowledge and skills, which will enhance your role within care and enable you to document the evidence of the learning experience for your own career development. The programme is primarily aimed at care workers who are taking on new roles such as assistant practitioners, associate practitioners or team leaders who have already achieved a level of responsibility, but who want to consolidate that with evidence of new knowledge and skills to enhance their practice. It is, however, open to all who are interested in exploring new aspects of health and social care and who are in employment in a relevant place of work. Upon successful completion you will be awarded a Foundation Degree (Science) in Health and Social Care from Oxford Brookes University. Tuition fees are online at To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. For part-time study, please apply online. Knowledgeable staff with good teaching practice lessons have been interesting and informative

14 24 Computing 25 Computing HNC in Computing and Systems Development HND in Computing and Systems Development Level: 4 Duration: 2 years (part time) Location: Reading College The BTEC HNC in Computing and Systems Development will give you the opportunity to study topics which are relevant to you and which will provide opportunities for you to develop a range of skills and techniques to enhance your professional acumen and develop attributes essential for successful performance in the workplace. It is a suitable qualification for those wishing to change career, develop programming and new technologies skills or move into a particular area of employment following a career break. There is the opportunity to gain a Cisco qualification in addition to the HNC. You will be provided with a suitably equipped place to work when attending College, which will include access to specialist staff, IT facilities and other learning resources which will be appropriate for the nature of work you will be required to undertake. Additionally, the College offers a wide range of other resources and facilities including additional learning support, which will be available to you, further details of which can found in the Higher Education Student Handbook. Tuition fees are online at Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) Location: Reading College UCAS code: 13II Institution code: O25 (Activate Learning) This qualification prepares you for employment in the IT and computing industry. It offers a progression route into a number of roles, generalists can enter system management, while ICT system support specialists can install or manage IT networks. If you decide to focus on software development you will be prepared for entry into employment in that area. You can also progress on to a Professional Development Qualification or vendor qualifications offered by Cisco, Microsoft, IBM, CompTIA, Oracle and VM Ware. The units are delivered through a variety of techniques to suit different learning styles. The class work includes group work, pair activities, investigations, discussions, experiments and note taking. You will be provided with a suitably equipped place to work when attending College, which will include access to specialist staff, IT facilities and other learning resources which will be appropriate for the nature of work you will be required to undertake. Additionally, the College offers a wide range of other resources and facilities including additional learning support, which will be available to you, further details of which can found in the higher education student handbook. How to apply Tuition fees are online at To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. For part-time study, please apply online.

15 26 Construction 27 Construction HNC in Construction Level: 4 Duration: Location: 2 years (part time) Reading College This part-time programme will help you to build your technical construction skills and gain an industry-recognised qualification. On successful completion you will have the transferrable skills you need to progress into employment in construction and the built environment. The programme will include modules such as: Design Principles and Application the planning, design and production phases of the construction process, and the coordination and management of each stage. Science and Materials understanding the scientific principles, properties and use of material needed to successfully complete the core and specialist content. Health, Safety and Welfare gaining knowledge on the main legislation and approved codes of practice applicable to the construction and built environment sector. Group Project evaluating and resolving realistic, practical problems by working as part of a team for a major piece of work that reflects the performance expected of technologists in a construction discipline. Please note that as programmes are reviewed regularly, the module list may vary. HNC in Construction prepares you for employment in careers such as surveying, architecture, civil engineering and structural engineering. You can also progress onto other higher education programmes or professional qualifications offered by membership bodies. Tuition fees and the application form are online at

16 University level programme guide Engineering 29 Engineering HNC in Mechanical Engineering Level: 4 Duration: Location: 2 years (part time) Reading College The programme is for those who want to build up their engineering skills and work towards becoming a professional engineer. The programme will develop skills and knowledge that will allow you to bring together engineering elements in project based assignments related to the needs of the engineering sector. The engineering department focuses heavily on using e-learning tools to support teaching and learning. You will also be provided with a suitably equipped place to work when attending college, which will include access to specialist staff, IT facilities and other learning resources which will be appropriate for the nature of work you will be required to undertake. The College offers a wide range of other resources and facilities including additional learning support, which will be available to you. Tuition fees and the application form are online at

17 30 Engineering 31 HNC in Electrical and Electronic Enginnering HND in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Level: 4 Duration: 2 years (part time) Location: Reading College Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) Location: Reading College UCAS code: 006H Institution code: O25 (Activate Learning) This programme is for those who want to build up their engineering skills and work towards becoming a professional engineer. The programme will develop skills and knowledge that will allow you to bring together engineering elements in project based assignments related to the needs of the engineering sector. The engineering department focuses heavily on using e-learning tools to support teaching and learning. You will be provided with a suitably equipped place to work when attending college, which will also include access to specialist staff, IT facilities and other learning resources which will be appropriate for the nature of work you will be required to undertake. The College offers a wide range of other resources and facilities, including additional learning support, which will be available to you. Tuition fees and the application form are at Tutors incorporate real life experiences in explaining principles to make it easier to understand This programme is designed for those who want to build up their engineering skills and work towards becoming a professional engineer. The programme will develop skills and knowledge that will allow you to bring together engineering elements in project based assignments related to the needs of the engineering sector. The engineering department focuses heavily on using e-learning tools to support teaching and learning. You will also be provided with a suitably equipped place to work when attending college, which will include access to specialist staff, IT facilities and other learning resources which will be appropriate for the nature of work you will be required to undertake. The College offers a wide range of other resources and facilities, including additional learning support, which will be available to you. Further details are in the higher education student handbook. The teaching and support from all the tutors has been great Tuition fees are online at To apply, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page.

18 32 Furniture 33 Furniture Foundation Degree (Arts) in Furniture: Design and Make Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) 3 years (part time) Location: City of Oxford College UCAS code: W261 Institution code: B94/O (Bucks New University) BA (Hons) Furniture: Design and Make Level: 6 Duration: 1 year (full time) 2 years (part time) Location: City of Oxford College UCAS code: W261 Institution code: B94/O (Bucks New University) The Foundation Degree in Furniture: Design and Make concentrates on the craft aspect of the subject, helping students to develop their making skills and realise their own designs. This is a direct response to the needs of the craft furniture industry and employers looking for furniture designer makers of excellent ability. You will also be encouraged to engage in College life and to become a mentor/ ambassador in our marketing and other functions. The programme will culminate in a professional public exhibition for the industry and networking opportunities. Upon successful completion you will be awarded a Foundation Degree in Furniture: Design and Make from Bucks New University. Most students will aspire to become independent designer-makers, but many find it useful first to gain experience working in established workshops. Other graduates are employed as designers for firms in furniture and associated industries, or become freelance designers. The quality of facilities and practical tuition is excellent Graduates normally progress into either the craft furniture industry working for top designer makers, or start their own workshop. Upon successful completion of the Foundation Degree in Furniture: Design and Make, graduates will also be able to upgrade their qualification to an honours degree through one more year of study on the BA (Hons) Furniture: Design and Make which is also delivered at City of Oxford College. Alternatively, foundation degree graduates can also progress to either the BA (Hons) Furniture: Design and Craft, or BA (Hons) Furniture: Contemporary Design at Bucks New University. Tuition fees are online at To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. For part-time study, please apply online. The programme provides a work-related Honours top-up progression route from the current Foundation Degree in Furniture: Design and Make. It develops highly competent, proficient graduates for a career in furniture designing and making. The programme will consist of two key elements, which focus on independent and industry-linked projects. Independent (personal) Establishing a self-initiated brief through a significant written research project, and directly linking this with a major design and make project. Modules will include Personal project: Written, and Personal project: Design and Make. Industry Linked (professional) Developing links with industry and supporting them to build business and enterprise skills relevant to furniture designer makers. Modules will include Professional Development and Professional Design and Make (an industrylinked live project). Upon successful completion you will be awarded a BA (Hons) Furniture: Design and Make from Buckinghamshire New University. Following successful completion there are opportunities for progression to postgraduate study within the National School of Furniture at Bucks New University. Several students have progressed to the MA Art and Design Practice (leading to an award in MA Furniture). There is also the possibility of progression to other postgraduate programmes, such as the MA RCA. Tuition fees are online at To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. For part-time study, please apply online.

19 34 Motorsports 35 Motorsports Foundation Degree (Science) in Motorsports Performance and Automotive Technology Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) 3 years (part time) Location: Banbury and Bicester college, Bicester campus UCAS code: H338 Institution code: O66 (Oxford Brookes University) This Foundation Degree (Science) in Motorsports Performance and Automotive Technology has been developed by our Bicester Campus and Oxford Brookes University as preparation for a range of careers in the motorsport industry. The UK motor industry employs thousands of graduates each year and has a highly successful motorsport sector. You will be working, or expecting to work, in a motorsport environment. You will want to gain a higher level qualification in relation to your skills and knowledge and to build on any experience you have of the motorsport or related industries. This programme has been developed in consultation with local motorsport employers in order to meet regional priorities for higher level skills shortages. The qualification is validated by Oxford Brookes University. Upon successful completion you will be awarded a Foundation Degree in Motorsports Performance and Automotive Technology from Oxford Brookes University. This foundation degree will equip you with the knowledge, understanding and skills required for success in current and future employment, or for progression to an honours degree. Students who successfully complete the FdSc in Motorsports Performance and Automotive Technology are able to progress to the final year of the BSc (Hons) Motorsport Technology programme at Oxford Brookes University. Tuition fees are online at To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. For part-time study, please apply online. The placement with Torro Rosso F1 was excellent for the work-based learning module

20 36 Policing 37 Policing Foundation Degree (Arts) in Policing Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) Location: City of Oxford College UCAS code: N225/POL Location: Reading College UCAS code: TBC Institution code: O66 (Oxford Brookes University) The special constabulary is the UK s parttime police force and is made up of members of the public who volunteer to spend some of their time helping to police their local community. Special constables volunteer to undertake 18 hours per month and carry out mainstream policing working alongside regular police officers. This full-time, two-year programme has been developed in conjunction with Thames Valley Police. It provides training to become a special constable alongside the foundation degree award, as well as an introduction to the requirements of becoming a police officer. Particular emphasis is given to community policing, relationship building and crime reduction. The programme will be of interest to anyone who is looking to embark on a career in policing, although the content is relevant to working within the wider community. On successful completion of this programme you will be awarded a Foundation Degree (Arts) in Policing from Oxford Brookes University. If you wish to become a police officer you will need to apply to Thames Valley Police to undertake the national policing qualification. Tuition fees are online at and To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. the placement with Thames Valley Police was the best part so far, I have learnt so much and have put my skills into practice

21 38 Sport 39 Sport Foundation Degree (Science) in Sports Coaching, Fitness and Rehabilitation * Level: 5 Duration: 2 years (full time) 3 years (part time) Location: City of Oxford College UCAS code: TBC Institution code: O66 (Oxford Brookes University) The Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching, Fitness and Rehabilitation is designed to prepare students for a career in Sports Coaching, Fitness and Rehabilitation and recognises the need for an inter-disciplinary approach to help maximise future employment potential. The programme provides an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and understanding of what it means to work within sports related organisations and encourages students to develop interest specific learning opportunities. The programme provides an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and understanding of 3 key aspects within the field of Sport: Sports Coaching, Fitness and Rehabilitation. The FdSc will help students identify their work interests and give an introduction to business skills for the sports practitioner, perfect for students who are thinking of working for themselves at some time in the future. As such the programme aims to maintain a wide skills set. Work experience is a key factor in this programme and students are encouraged to organise a placement that meets their interests and skills. The experience, including the personal and professional development you acquire during the voluntary work, will be captured and awarded academic credit through the assessment of the Work Related Learning module. Learning is supported through close contact with a range of sport and fitness specialists with access to dedicated facilities and provides an opportunity for personally-focused learning. Students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as professional and research skills. Alongside the academic study in the programme students will develop the communication skills that will equip them to respond to changing economic conditions, to develop an ability to work in different environments and to seek out diverse opportunities within the sports industries. Having successfully completed the FdA Sports Coaching, Fitness and Rehabilitation students will be eligible to apply for the top-up year and achieve a BSc in Sports Coaching, Fitness and Rehabilitation. Tuition fees are online at To apply for full-time study, please go through UCAS using the codes at the top of this page. For part-time study, please apply online. *Subject to validation

22 40 Teaching 41 Teaching Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (Post-Compulsory Education) Level: 6 Duration: 2 years (part time) Location: City of Oxford College Location: Banbury and Bicester college, Banbury Campus Location: Reading College This is a two-year part-time programme for those teaching in the post-compulsory sector, e.g. further education, higher education, the health service, adult and community education, the prison service, the armed forces or private training providers. The programme incorporates the outcomes for Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS) and the Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS), and enables students to apply for Professional Formation (following graduation). This leads to Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status via the Institute for Learning (IfL). QTLS now has parity of esteem with QTS in Schools. Upon successful completion, those with a Level 3 professional or vocational qualification will be awarded the Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (post-compulsory education). Students who perform well after year 1 have the opportunity to upgrade to Level 7 (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) for year 2. Anyone who would like to continue has the opportunity to progress to a BA (Hons) Degree in Educational Studies offered at Oxford Brookes University. Tuition fees and the application form are online. Please visit: The feedback from observations was very helpful and advice from tutors helped to resolve issues in my practice

23 42 Notes 43 Notes

24 EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS Notes 1

25 All information in this guide is correct at the time of going to print in October 2013 but may be subject to change. Our programmes are delivered in partnership with the following organisations: Banbury and Bicester College Banbury campus Broughton Road, Banbury OX16 9QA Bicester campus Telford House, Telford Road, Bicester OX26 4LA City of Oxford College Oxford City Centre campus Oxpens Road, Oxford OX1 1SA Reading College Kings Road, Reading, Berkshire RG1 4HJ CC_0009/