September-December 2014 Bite-Sized Courses that make you... Free places available see page 4 www.uhovi.ac.uk 02 Part of the University of South Wales Part-time university courses in your community
Welcome to UHOVI Contents Welcome to UHOVI...2 Bite-Sized Learning...3 Frequently Asked Questions...4 Courses in: Blackwood...6 Crumlin...8 Cwmbran...9 Ebbw Vale...9 Merthyr Tydfil...10 New Tredegar...11 Pontypool...12 Pontypridd...12 Tredegar...14 Index...14 Coming Soon...15 Welcome to UHOVI (Universities Heads of the Valleys Institute) an exciting education initiative providing new opportunities for local people and businesses. UHOVI is all about improving skills and qualifications by making learning accessible locally. We work with partners to deliver higher education courses in local venues so everyone has the chance to learn, improve their skills or gain qualifications. Backed by the Welsh Government, UHOVI is part of the University of South Wales. We work closely with further education colleges and training providers, local authorities, businesses, schools and the voluntary sector to provide courses relevant to the Valleys region. So if you re interested in studying locally see what UHOVI has to offer, then get in touch: Call us on 0800 1223 220 / 01443 654786 e-mail uhovienquiries@southwales.ac.uk or visit www.uhovi.ac.uk Bite-Sized Learning with UHOVI Our latest bite-sized course programme offers the perfect introduction to studying with UHOVI. Bite-sized courses are ideal for those who are new to studying, anyone interested in a specific topic, or for individuals looking for a new career path. Courses are available in a variety of subjects with opportunities to move on to further study if desired. Many of the courses listed in this brochure could help you progress onto a foundation degree or undergraduate course. Please call us for more information on progression routes. All courses are awarded by the University of South Wales. They are delivered in community venues across the Valleys region by University lecturers or college tutors, so you get to benefit from university level courses on your doorstep. Our courses are delivered in community venues across the Valleys region. Courses currently available are listed in this brochure, along with their delivery details. You will also find a Coming Soon section which lists all courses we hope to timetable from January 2015. We are continually developing new short courses so if your subject of interest is not listed here please call us to register your details, or for the most up-to-date course information visit our website. See page 15 for more courses starting in September 2014 2 Call us about options for continuing your studies 0800 1223 220 / 01443 654786 www.uhovi.ac.uk uhovienquiries@southwales.ac.uk 3
Frequently Asked Questions Who can do these courses? With the exception of our Professional Development course on p.14, anyone can apply and you don t usually need any previous experience or qualifications to enrol. Many of our students haven t studied or been on a course for a long time. Are there assessments? All of our courses are accredited, this means that to successfully complete the course and be awarded the Higher Education (HE) credits you will be required to undertake and pass some type of formal assessment. This could range from a short in-class test, coursework/portfolio or a short presentation. Please don t let the assessment put you off attending, rest assured that you will be encouraged and guided by our friendly supportive staff during your studies. Where will the assessment take place? Most assessments will take place during your course, at your place of study. What opportunities are there once I ve completed a course? Bite-sized courses are available in a variety of subjects with clear progression routes for those who wish to move on to a Foundation Degree or other professional training programme. How do I join a course? To register your interest in a particular course, or to book your place call 0800 1223 220 / 01443 654786, or alternatively you can email us at uhovienquiries@southwales.ac.uk If you happen to miss the first session, please call us as it may still be possible for you to join the course. If not, don t worry courses begin at other times of the year. Is there a cost? There is a UHOVI Bursary Scheme which has been designed to help you with the cost of studying these short courses. Who is eligible? The Scheme is not means tested so it doesn t matter if you are employed or not. You must however be living or working in Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Merthyr Tydfil, Rhondda Cynon Taf or Torfaen. If you don t live in one of the counties mentioned above, you may still be able to undertake a course but you will not be eligible for the UHOVI Bursary Scheme. Additionally, you must not have claimed the UHOVI Bursary scheme previously. If you are not a British citizen, or if classed as an overseas student, to be eligible you must not hold an immigration status that prevents you from study; confirmation will be required that you are eligible for UK Home Fee Status, as per the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) guidelines. For further information visit www.ukcisa.org.uk/international-students Enhance your employability skills! Which courses does this apply to? This Scheme applies to bite-sized or short courses at levels 4, 5 or 6 studied at less than 50% intensity. This is typically a bite-sized or short course of less than 60 credits. The Scheme does NOT apply to courses where you are studying 50% or more of an equivalent full-time course, such as a Foundation Degree. Financial assistance for HNDs, Foundation Degrees and other formal qualifications is available through Student Finance Wales. Visit www.studentfinancewales.co.uk The UHOVI Bursary Scheme does not apply to postgraduate level courses. How does the UHOVI Bursary Scheme work? Each course is worth a certain amount of Higher Education credits, e.g. Introduction to Social Media is worth 10 credits. If you are eligible, the first 20 credits of study could be fully funded by the UHOVI Bursary Scheme. This means you can take your first step into higher education, or a new subject area, without worrying about the cost. If you are not sure if you qualify, please contact us: uhovienquiries@southwales.ac.uk or call 0800 1223 220. What if I don t complete the course? If you don t complete the course* or if you withdraw, it is likely that you will need to cover the cost of the course yourself. *All course assignments need to be attempted and submitted. What if I want to study more than one course? The UHOVI Bursary Scheme applies to the first 20 credits so you could take two 10 credit courses. If you wish to continue studying after you have used your 20 credit Bursary, you will be liable for the full cost of any courses. How much does a course normally cost? UHOVI bite-sized courses at Levels 4, 5 and 6 cost 12.25 per credit for the academic year 2014/15. This means a bite-sized 10 credit course will cost 122.50 and a 20 credit course costs 245. 4 Call us about options for continuing your studies 0800 1223 220 / 01443 654786 www.uhovi.ac.uk uhovienquiries@southwales.ac.uk 5
Blackwood Blackwood Astrobiology Science of Life in the Universe 24 weeks 6.30-8.30pm Blackwood Community College Astrobiology is the study of life in the cosmos. So far Earth is the only planet that we know of that has life but recent developments in astronomy, biology and technology gives us a greater understanding of the potential for finding life elsewhere. This course will reflect the current developments in this exciting field of research. Within the course, we shall examine such topics as: the building blocks of life, the origin of life on Earth, evolution and intelligence, habitable zones around other stars, extra solar planetary systems and their potential for life, the Drake equation, habitats for life in the solar system and many more. This exciting and engaging course will examine the concept of alien life and place it in familiar scientific and social contexts that will enable the student to evaluate the chances of humanity finding life elsewhere in the near future. Essential English Teaching 12 weeks Thursday 18th September 2014 ( teaching, 1 week revision and 1 week exam) Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni This course is aimed at those who wish to undertake a teacher training course. Did you miss out on a B grade at GCSE English? And did you know that if you re interested in Primary or Secondary teacher training, the criteria has changed. From September 2014, the Welsh Government has raised the entry requirements for GCSE English and Mathematics for applicants to Initial Teacher Training (ITT) courses. You now need a minimum of B grades in GCSE English language and Mathematics before commencing ITT in Primary and Secondary (this applies to courses studied at both undergraduate and postgraduate level). If you don t currently meet these entry requirements then don t panic this course is aimed at those who currently possess a grade C GCSE English language* but need the equivalent accreditation of a grade B for training purposes. *Evidence of grades must be produced prior to enrolment. Essential Mathematics Teaching 12 weeks 16th September 2014 ( teaching, 1 week revision and 1 week exam) Ysgol Gyfun Cwm Rhymni This course is aimed at those who wish to undertake a teacher training course. Did you miss out on a B grade at GCSE Mathematics? And did you know that if you re interested in Primary or Secondary teacher training, the criteria has changed. From September 2014, the Welsh Government has raised the entry requirements for GCSE English and Mathematics for applicants to Initial Teacher Training (ITT) courses. You now need a minimum of B grades in GCSE English language and Mathematics before commencing ITT in Primary and Secondary (this applies to courses studied at both undergraduate and postgraduate level). If you don t currently meet these entry requirements then don t panic this course is aimed at those who currently possess a grade C GCSE Mathematics* but need the equivalent accreditation of a grade B for training purposes. Preparing to Teach 30th September 2014 6-8.30pm Blackwood Community College Have you thought about using your skills to teach others? This course is a basic introduction to teaching learners who are post-16. It introduces you to the main principles and methods of learning and the practical skills for teaching at this level. It looks at planning and delivering sessions, theories of learning, working with different groups and the role of the tutor. It is designed as a stand-alone introductory module but you can also progress to the full programme which leads to the Professional Certificate in Post-Compulsory Education. *Evidence of grades must be produced prior to enrolment. Have you thought about using your skills to teach others? 6 Call us about options for continuing your studies 0800 1223 220 / 01443 654786 www.uhovi.ac.uk uhovienquiries@southwales.ac.uk 7
Blackwood Crumlin Cwmbran Ebbw Vale Personal Financial Planning 30th September 2014 6.30-8.30pm Blackwood Community College This course aims to develop an awareness of the financial environment in relation to personal finance, and to provide an understanding of the techniques, products and principles of personal financial planning. We will look at budgeting, income and expenditure, debt and financing, as well as savings and other investments. By the end of this course you will have the skills to be able to devise a Personal Development Plan (PDP), and will be able to confidently demonstrate the ability to apply techniques of personal financial planning. Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Monday 29th September 2014 1-4pm Crumlin Institute This course will provide knowledge and understanding of the key anatomical and physiological factors that influence our health. You will study each of the body systems in terms of structure, function and interaction with other systems, and an emphasis will be placed on the application of this knowledge to the healthcare industry. This is an important introductory course that will develop your base-line knowledge, providing a thorough foundation for higher level studies. How to Run an Event Croesyceiliog Community Education Centre 5 weeks If you have ever wanted to plan an event but didn t know where to begin, then this course is for you. You will learn the principles of designing, planning and running a multi-disciplinary event, as well as understanding how events have developed and grown, and now play a major role in today s society. To assist you with your own idea development and planning, you will be introduced to examples of existing events, helping you to apply these principles of success in relation to your own community, organisation or interest area. Practical examples as well as existing theory will help you to explore event staging, logistics and how to shut down and evaluate an event. We can help you get on track to a university qualification. Introduction to the Criminal Justice System Monday 29th September 2014 6.30-8.30pm Ebbw Vale Learning Action Centre If you re considering employment within the criminal justice arena, or are simply interested in understanding more about crime and justice, then this is the course for you. We will look at how society does (or should) respond to criminal behaviour, focussing on government systems and practices that are designed to maintain social control, deter crime and authorise punishments, as well as rehabilitation programmes for offenders. Academic Research and Professional Skills 1-4pm Blaenau Gwent Learning Zone The aim of this course is to help you gain the fundamental interpersonal and academic building blocks required to embark on a successful university experience, equipping you with an academic underpinning, essential to success at level 4 Higher Education studies, whilst also giving you transferable skills to function in a professional environment. This course will aid development in a critical and analytical approach to work and supports the identification and planning of projects related to the workplace or potential working environments. 8 Call us about options for continuing your studies 0800 1223 220 / 01443 654786 www.uhovi.ac.uk uhovienquiries@southwales.ac.uk 9
Merthyr Tydfil Merthyr Tydfil New Tredegar Introduction to Mathematics 7 weeks 6-9pm Crownford House, Swan Street This course will demonstrate the relevance of mathematics in certain areas of life, and aims to provide you with confidence in numeracy and mathematics, enabling you to apply mathematical solutions to everyday situations. Not only will this course cover basic numeracy including negative numbers, fractions, percentages and ratio, it will also give you an introduction to algebra and trigonometry. We will also look at statistics, display of data, histograms, bar charts, and pie charts. Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology 5.30-7pm The College Merthyr Tydfil 15 weeks This course aims to provide you with an overview of human anatomy and physiology as a means to preparing you for further, more in-depth study, e.g. Tai Chi Teaching. Each week of this course will cover a specific topic, including Anatomical/Medical terminology, the skeletal system and the structure of the joints, as well as examining the muscles, how they relate to the skeletal system and the biomechanics of movement. You will also study the nervous system, as well as an exploration of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, their relationship to one another and the rest of the body. By the end of this course you will have begun to understand the relationship between human anatomy and physiology and health. If you wish to qualify for the Tai Chi Teaching certificate you also need to undertake this Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology course. Tai Chi Teaching 7-9pm The College Merthyr Tydfil 10 months Tai Chi Chuan, or supreme, ultimate fist is a Chinese internal or soft martial art, known for its effectiveness in improving a variety of health conditions. Practised in a soft, slow, gentle and meditative manner, Tai Chi can help develop a deep sense of relaxation, reducing stress and enhancing energy levels. Training for this course is based around a series of solo forms ; during this course you will learn the 54 move Tai Chi Chuan form. You will also be given a basic introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the human body; the methods of teaching Tai Chi, as well as looking at small business management for anyone hoping to start teaching Tai Chi. *As part of this course and in order to qualify for the teaching certificate you will be required to undertake a further 20 credit module: Anatomy and Physiology (see page 10). Without successful completion of this course you will not be able to gain accreditation for the teaching certificate. * Human Nutrition 1 7th October 2014 White Rose Resource Centre 24 weeks This brand new course will introduce you to the importance of diet as part of a healthy lifestyle by applying the basic concepts of human nutrition, e.g. food groups, energy, weight control and sources of nutrients, their functions within the body and their relationships to health, including deficiency disorders. You will be introduced to the properties and roles of carbohydrates, proteins, fat; vitamins, minerals and water, and will look in detail at the GI tract, including the stages of digestion and absorption. The achievement of optimum body weight will be discussed, as well as dietary analysis. We will also discuss alcohol metabolism and abuse, including binge drinking, highlighting alcohol s impact on a range of health issues. Tai Chi can help develop a deep sense of relaxation, reducing stress and enhancing energy levels. 10 Call us about options for continuing your studies 0800 1223 220 / 01443 654786 www.uhovi.ac.uk uhovienquiries@southwales.ac.uk 11
Pontypool Pontypridd Pontypridd The Three Roots of Counselling 26 weeks 16th September 2014 6-8.30pm St Alban s Roman Catholic High School This course will familiarise you with the main theories and practices of the three approaches to counselling namely, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Humanism and Psychodynamic. Humanistic theories focusing on the work of Carl Rogers will be explored and the notion of growth and actualisation will be examined. As well as this, core conditions and self-awareness will be investigated. Psychodynamic theorists such as Freud and Jung will be explored together with their relevance for counselling practice; the work of Beck and Ellis will also be examined. Skills associated with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy such as diary keeping will be evaluated. Introduction to Social Media 6 weeks 30th September 2014 6.30-8.30pm Gartholwg Lifelong Learning Centre, Church Village What is Social Media? How has it evolved and how important is it today? This course aims to understand the evolution and principles of Social Media, looking at its current forms both on-line and mobile. You will look at current Social Media Networks and technologies, as well as how these are exploited through advertising, design and marketing strategies. The course will also highlight individuals, artists, entrepreneurs and businesses that have all been successful through the application of Social Media. A Healthy Heart for You and Your Community 7 weeks Thursday 18th September 2014 9.30-12.30pm Gartholwg Lifelong Learning Centre, Church Village This course aims to introduce you to the key issues affecting heart health, and has been designed for those who wish to improve their own and their family s health, as well as for those who wish to share this information with their community. In conjunction with the British Heart Foundation s Healthy Hearts Campaign, you will explore topics including Cardiac anatomy & physiology; symptoms of coronary heart disease and heart attack; basic life support; blood pressure and hypertension, and physical activity. At the end of this course you will also have the opportunity to complete the BHF training to deliver the Healthy Hearts message in the community. Introduction to Therapeutic Massage Prospect House, Treforest 12 weeks Through a series of lectures as well as hands-on classes, this course aims to provide you with basic therapeutic massage skills at a clinical level. The course will also give you an introduction to basic anatomy and body structure, giving you the opportunity to develop the basic skills of therapeutic massage. And should you wish, this course will provide you with the basis to continue your study at a higher level or go on to consider a health care profession as a future career. Topics covered include anatomy and physiology; history of massage, definition of massage and effects of massage; the treatment environment; emergency aid and recognition of injuries; and client assessment. Understand the evolution and principles of Social Media A Healthy Heart for You and Your Community is ideal for those who wish to improve their own and their family s health. 12 Call us about options for continuing your studies 0800 1223 220 / 01443 654786 www.uhovi.ac.uk uhovienquiries@southwales.ac.uk 13
Tredegar Index Coming Soon An Introduction to the Principles and Practice of Palliative Care * + **PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT** 10 credits, level 5 or 6 (depending on qualifications held) 2½ days Runs: Thursdays 2nd October (1/2 day Induction, 1.30-4pm); 16th October and 23rd October 2014 9-4.30pm Hospice of the Valleys, Park Gate Business Centre This course is for registered healthcare professionals, delivered by the Hospice of the Valleys Specialist Palliative Care Team, and will provide you with an introduction to palliative and end of life care. A Healthy Heart for You and Your Community...13 Academic Research and Professional Skills...9 An Introduction to the Principles and Practice of Palliative Care...14 Astrobiology Science of Life in the Universe...6 Essential English Teaching...6 Essential Mathematics Teaching...7 How to Run an Event...9 Human Nutrition 1...11 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology...8 & 10 Introduction to Mathematics...10 Introduction to Social Media...12 Introduction to the Criminal Justice System...9 Introduction to Therapeutic Massage...13 Personal Financial Planning...8 Preparing to Teach...7 Tai Chi Teaching...11 The Three Roots of Counselling...12 Additional courses starting September 2014 At the time of print, a number of courses are awaiting confirmation. We hope to offer courses in the following subject areas from September please call 0800 1223 220 or visit www.uhovi.ac.uk for full details including times, dates and venues: Archaeology Community Development Community Heritage Computer Animation Counselling Creative Writing Effective Communication Exploring Heritage in the Field Heritage Storytelling Managing Performance Office Applications Psychology Reading and Interpreting Historical Documents Study Skills Web Design The principles and practice of the palliative care approach are explored, along with developments in end of life care and its utilisation into everyday practice. The course will help you to develop knowledge and skills necessary to effectively care for clients and families receiving palliative care, as well as focussing on the important role of the multidisciplinary team and interagency collaboration. The patient and family journey will be explored from diagnosis to end of life care recognising that death is an inevitable part of the palliative care process and issues pertinent to this will be explored. The student will be introduced to the principles and practice of caring for individuals faced with life threatening, life limiting illnesses irrespective of their diagnosis. The importance of using evidence based practice whilst acknowledging the wide diversity of patients will be examined. For further information and/or application form contact the Hospice of the Valleys on 01495 717 277 or email enquiries@hospiceofthevalleys.com Even more Bite-Sized courses planned for 2015 Animal Nutrition Applying Teaching Skills Digital Photography Discovering Local History: A Digital Approach History of Astronomy Introduction to Criminological Theory Introduction to Digital Branding Introduction to Food Science and Technology Introduction to Social Work Introduction to Working with Young People We are continually developing new short courses so if your subject of interest is not listed here please call us to register your details, or for the most up-to-date course information visit our website. *Pre-requisite: students must be registered healthcare professionals to attend this course. +Charges apply. 14 15 www.uhovi.ac.uk
Part-time university courses in your community Crownford House, Swan Street, Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8EU Enquiries: 0800 1223 220 / 01443 654786 E-mail: uhovienquiries@southwales.ac.uk www.uhovi.ac.uk Part of the University of South Wales All information correct at time of print. UHOVI reserves the right to amend or discontinue courses as necessary. Venues are subject to change.