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

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyAscentis awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Nursing and Midwifery) Course in Widnes. Classes run at Riverside College Kingsway Campus, full-time during the day.

The course is designed for adults aged 21 or over who want to move into higher education. You study two Level 3 subjects: Biology and Social Issues in Health Care. The course also covers study skills, academic writing, and research to prepare you for degree-level study. It runs over one year. Support with university applications is included.

You'll finish with an Ascentis Access to HE Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery, recognised by UK universities as a route into nursing and midwifery degrees.

Who this course is for

The course is modular and designed for progression to university. It is designed for adult students aged 21+, who may have been out of education for some time in preparation for higher education. You will study two Level 3 subjects; Biology and Social Issues in Health Care. The diploma also includes modules in study skills, academic writing and academic research to prepare you for your degree. Preparation for university: students are offered support and guidance on university applications. There are excellent links with local universities, who value the quality of the Access provision at Riverside College. Students receive in-depth guidance from subject tutors on essay writing and research skills, together with additional support if required. A successful personal tutor programme is in place to offer support to all students and monitor progress to help students succeed on the course. Degree Progression and Career Opportunities include: Midwifery, Adult Nursing, Mental Health Nursing.

Entry requirements

Please enquire at the college website

What you will learn

  • You'll study the biological sciences relevant to nursing and midwifery practice.
  • You'll explore social issues in health care, including inequalities and health policy.
  • You'll develop academic writing skills for university-level study.
  • You'll build research skills to support your degree studies.
  • You'll practise study skills to help you manage independent learning.
  • You'll receive guidance on applying to university through UCAS.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Riverside College Kingsway Campus. The Diploma is assessed through a portfolio of assignments and written work completed across the year. Each module is assessed separately, and you build your portfolio as you progress. There are no formal exams; assessment is coursework-based throughout.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Riverside College Kingsway Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Registered Nurse, following completion of a nursing degree and NMC registration.
  • Midwife, following a midwifery degree and NMC registration.
  • Nursing associate, a stepping stone role while studying toward full registration.
  • Healthcare assistant, entry-level hospital or community care role available now.

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Nursing, the degree you need to register as a nurse with the NMC.
  • BSc (Hons) Midwifery, the degree required to practise as a registered midwife.
  • BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care, a broader degree for those exploring health careers.
  • Foundation Year in Health Sciences, an extra year of support before a full degree if needed.
Apply on riversidecollege.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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