Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Primary Teaching) Course in Newport

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

About this course

Free Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Primary Teaching) Course in Newport. Classes run at Isle of Wight College, full-time during the day over 36 weeks.

The course is designed for adults aged 19 or over who want to move into higher education. You'll study subjects that prepare you for a primary teaching degree, covering education theory, child development, and academic writing skills. GCSE Maths and GCSE English at grade 4 or above are required to enrol.

You'll finish with an Ascentis Access to HE Diploma, recognised by UK universities as a route into degree-level study.

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 6 (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 academic writing and research skills needed for university study.
  • You'll explore child development and how children learn at primary school age.
  • You'll study education theory and the principles behind effective teaching.
  • You'll build knowledge of the primary curriculum and how it is structured.
  • You'll practise critical thinking and how to construct evidence-based arguments.
  • You'll gain an understanding of inclusive education and supporting diverse learners.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Isle of Wight College, with a mix of taught lessons, group discussion, and independent study. Assessment is through written assignments and coursework rather than formal exams. Each unit is assessed separately, and your work is marked against national standards set by Ascentis.

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

  • Primary school teacher, qualified after completing a teaching degree and QTS.
  • Teaching assistant, supports classroom learning in primary schools.
  • Early years practitioner, works with children aged 0 to 5 in nursery or reception settings.
  • Learning mentor, provides pastoral and academic support to pupils.
  • Special educational needs support assistant, assists children with additional learning needs.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS, the main degree route to becoming a qualified primary school teacher.
  • BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies, for those interested in working with younger children in education or care settings.
  • PGCE Primary, a postgraduate teaching qualification for graduates who already hold a relevant degree.
  • BA (Hons) Education Studies, a broader degree exploring education policy, theory, and practice.

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