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Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Nursing and Midwifery) Course in Newport

CostFREE
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAscentis awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Access to HE Diploma (Nursing and Midwifery) Course in Newport. Classes run at Isle of Wight College, full-time during the day.

This Level 3 Access to HE Diploma qualification is recognised by UK universities as an entry route to nursing and midwifery degrees. You study over 36 weeks, covering science, health, and academic skills that universities expect. Entry requires GCSE English Language and GCSE Maths at grade 4 or above. Some subject options ask for higher grades in Maths or Science.

You'll finish with an Ascentis Access to HE Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery.

Who this course is for

Access to HE is a full level 3 Diploma course, which is specifically designed to enable mature (19+) learners to prepare to take, and to progress to university degree level programmes. Thousands of mature learners in the UK progress from Access courses to Higher Education programmes each year. The standard entry requirements for the Access to Higher Education course are GCSE English Language and GCSE Mathematics at Grade C/4 or above plus a commitment to learn.

Entry requirements

GCSE Maths at grade 4 (C) or above AND GCSE English / GCSE English Language at grade 4 (C) or above OR GCSE grade C equivalents in English and Maths (E.g. Appropriate Scottish Standard grade qualifications) ORIELTS at band 6.5 or above (For non-native speakers of English) GCSE Science at grade B or above, if you wish to study the Access chemistry subject option GCSE Maths at grade 6 (B) or above, if you wish to study the Access maths subject option

What you will learn

  • You'll develop scientific knowledge relevant to nursing and midwifery practice.
  • You'll study human biology, including anatomy and physiology.
  • You'll build academic writing and research skills needed at university level.
  • You'll explore health, care, and the principles behind professional nursing.
  • You'll practise critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning.
  • You'll develop study skills to support independent learning at degree level.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Isle of Wight College. Assessment is through assignments, essays, and coursework rather than final exams. Each unit is assessed separately, and you'll build a portfolio of work across the year. Tutors give feedback throughout to help you meet university entry standards.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Isle of Wight College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Registered Nurse, working in NHS hospitals, community settings, or private care.
  • Midwife, supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and postnatal care.
  • Nursing associate, a stepping-stone role while studying toward full registration.
  • Healthcare assistant, supporting registered nurses in clinical settings.

What you could study next

  • BSc Nursing (Adult, Child, Mental Health, or Learning Disabilities), the degree most learners on this course are aiming for.
  • BSc Midwifery, for those focused on maternity care.
  • BSc Health and Social Care, a broader option if your interests develop during the course.
  • Nursing degree apprenticeship, combining university study with paid employment in a clinical setting.
Apply on iwcollege.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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