Higher Education Course Guide2012/13 - The College of West Anglia

Higher Education 

CourseGuide 2012/13 

University Centre West Anglia 

Ajoint venture between theCollege of West Anglia 

andAngliaRuskin University

Introduction 

Welcome 4 

Thehighereducation experience 5 

Finance 6 

Howtoapply 7 

Disability Support 7 

Animal Behaviour and Veterinary Nursing 

Foundation Degree(FdSc) AppliedAnimal Behaviour 8 

Foundation Degree(FdSc) VeterinaryNursingand Applied 

Animal Behaviour 9 

Business 

BA (Hons) Business Management 10 

Diploma in Higher EducationinBusiness Management 

(DipHE) 11 

Contents 

Engineering 

BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) Electrical / 

Electronic EngineeringorMechanicalEngineering 18 

Foundation Degree(FdSc) Motorsport Engineering 19 

Equine Studies 

BSc(Hons)EquineStudies 20 

Foundation Degree(FdSc) EquineStudies 21 

Humanities 

BA (Hons) Historyand English Literature 22 

BA (Hons) Sociology andEnglish Literature 23 

BA (Hons) Historyand Sociology 24 

Psychology&Sociology 

BA (Hons) Psychosocial Studies 25 

Childcare 

BA (Hons) EarlyChildhoodStudies 12 

BA (Hons) EarlyChildhoodStudies -3rd year 12 

Foundation Degree(FdA) EarlyYears,Playwork& 

Education 13 

Computing 

BSc(Hons)ComputerScience 14 

Foundation Degree(FdSc) Computer Science 15 

Teacher Training&Education 

BA (Hons) Post-CompulsoryEducation&Training-Part-time 26 

Diploma in Teachinginthe LifelongLearningSector(DTLLS) 27 

Access/Pre-Degree 

Access to Higher Education 28 

BTEC Foundation Diploma in Artand Design 29 

PreparingtoTeach in theLifelongLearningSector(PTLLS) 30 

Certificate in Teachinginthe LifelongLearningSector(CTLLS) 31 

Construction and Civil Engineering 

HNCDiploma in Construction 16 

Level4Diploma in Civil Engineering(HNC) 17 

Level5Diploma in Civil Engineering(HND) 17 

3

Welcome 

In this guide youwill findabroad rangeof 

higher educationcourses available at the 

College of West Angliathrough our 

partnership with AngliaRuskin University. 

Thecompact nature of thecollege 

ensuresthatour students receive 

unprecedentedsupportfromtutorsand 

have theopportunity to form firm friendships 

with otherlearners, somethingthatisnot always 

easy in alargeruniversity.The college higher education environment 

is awarm learningcommunity whereeverybody counts andsuccess 

is attainable.You don’thavetotakemywordfor this:see what our 

studentssay throughout this courseguide. 

As well as thehighlevels of personal support, flexible study is akey 

feature of what we offer.Manycourses offer afull or part-timeoption 

to enable youtoplanyourstudies around jobs,families andother 

commitments.And if youdonot feel readytolaunchstraightinto 

higher levelstudy,thenweoffer aone-yearAccess to Higher Education 

option to prepare youfor thechallengeahead. 

It is nevertoo late to change career,gain additional qualificationsor 

simply study asubject that youhavealways wantedto, butnever had 

thechance. We look forwardtohelping youachieve your educational 

andcareer goals andfeelsure youwill enjoyyourtimewithus. 

DavidPomfret 

Principal 

College of West Anglia 

AngliaRuskin University is pleased to 

work in partnership with the 

College of West Angliatoprovide 

youwithachoice of higher 

educationprogrammes locally. 

Auniversity education is an 

investment in your future andwe 

are dedicatedtodiscoveringand 

helpingyou realiseyourpotential. 

AngliaRuskin University currently provides educationfor over 

28000 studentsatvariouscampusesaroundthe region and 

we are committed to developing courses to suit your needs. 

By studyingwithusatthe College of West Angliayou are 

joiningasuccess storywhich will only improve as we work 

towards aUniversity centre forWestNorfolk andthe Fenland 

area. We are workingveryclosely with local, national and 

internationalbusinesses,resulting in,atthe time of writing, 

90%ofour studentsbeing in work or further study six months 

aftergraduating. 

Iwish youwellwithyourstudiesand look forwardto 

welcomingyou as anew student. 

Professor Michael Thorne 

ViceChancellor 

AngliaRuskin University 

4 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

Thehigher education experience 

There is arange of practical, professional and personal supporttohelp make your studiestrouble free. 

Why study an HE course at college? 

Majordifferencesbetween theway UK collegesand universities 

deliver higher education (HE) courses mean thatcollege students 

are graduating with an averageofaround£17,500 less debt than 

theiruniversity counterparts,accordingtoresearch released by 

theAssociation of Colleges(AoC,Nov 2010). 

TheAoC’s findings highlighthow acombination of greater 

opportunities to work part-timewhilestudying, theability to live 

at home andreducedtravelcosts are all keyfactors in minimising 

theoverall debt levels of HE college students. 

Adviceand guidance 

We have adedicated higher education supportteamtohelpyou 

throughout your time with us.This mayinclude help with finance 

andgeneral advice to supportyourstudies. We alsohavea 

student advisor service forhelpand advice with issues thatmay 

be affectingyourpersonaloracademiclife. To contactthe HE 

supportteampleasecall 01553815439. 

StudentUnion 

As an undergraduatestudentyou will be affiliated to both the 

College of West Anglia(CWA) andAngliaRuskin University (ARU) 

Student Unions. TheStudent Unionisanintegralpartofthe higher 

education experience andisrun by studentsfor students, 

offeringawidevarietyofservices, facilities andsocialactivities. 

An additional benefit of beingamemberofthe StudentUnion is 

theNUS Extracard, which gives youdiscounts at many high 

street stores. 

Childcare 

Thechildren’scentreatthe King’sLynn campus hasthe 

distinction of beingamongst thetop 2% of nurseriesinthe 

country(as ratedbyOfsted). With experienced, fully-trained staff 

andexcellent facilities,the nurserycan catertomorethan50 

childrenaged from 2monthsto5years andisavailableduring 

term time to all students. Costs varyand are dependentonthe 

child’sage,care period andeatingarrangements. 

Forfurther information, please contactthe childcare manager 

on 01553777382. 

Please be advised thatnurseryspacescan getfilled very quickly. 

Accommodation 

Student servicescan providedetails on arange of 

accommodationoptions forstudentsstudyingatall campuses, 

includingprivaterentedhousing andhomestay. Thetypeof 

accommodationavailablevaries at each campus. More details 

canbefound on thecollege website(www.cwa.ac.uk) or by 

contacting thestudent servicesdepartment, telephone 

01553761144. 

Tuition fees 

From September2012AngliaRuskin's proposed tuitionfeesfor 

courses runbythe College of West Angliaare as follows: 

• Full-time foundation degree or HND/HNC-£7,500 peryear 

• Full-time course leadingtoadegree - £8,300 peryear 

Fees will be confirmed in August 2011 andpublished on the 

ARUwebsite. 

Forup-to-date part-timeand overseasstudent fees pleasevisit 

www.anglia.ac.uk. 

Youcan paythe fees in advanceorininstalments;arepayable 

loancan be taken outfor both full-timeand part-timecourses. 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

5

Finance 

Finance 

To obtain themostrecentinformationon 

fundingarrangements, youshouldvisit 

http://www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance 

Youwill need to contactStudent Finance 

Englandatthe above websiteassoonasyou 

know that youare planningtoenrol on afulltime 

undergraduatecourseevenifyou are 

unsure of theinstitution whereyou wish to 

study at that stage. 

Financial supportfromthe university 

AngliaRuskin have introduced a£3.4million 

packageofscholarshipsand bursaries to 

help with tuitionfeesand livingcosts for 

students from lowerincomegroups. 

Formoreinformationpleasevisit 

www.anglia.ac.uk. 

Financial supportfromthe government 

Full-time students 

If youare afull-timestudentyou canapply 

for: 

ATuition Loan to covertuition charges, 

which is paid directly to theuniversity each 

year of study,onceyou'veregisteredon 

your course. 

ALivingCostLoanorMaintenanceLoan, 

available to help with livingcosts each year 

of your course. This is paid into your bank 

accountatthe startofeachterm, once 

you'veregisteredonyourcourse. 

6 

LivingCostGrants to help youwithyour 

livingcosts each year.You don’thavetopay 

grants back.The LivingCostGrant is paid into 

your bank accountatthe beginningofeach 

term once you'veregisteredonyourcourse. 

Scholarships, bursariesand awards 

As part of thenew student financesystem, 

AngliaRuskin University will offer students 

from lowerincomefamilies(under£25,000 

peryear) anew National Scholarship 

Programme. This newschemeistargeted 

towards studentswho most need financial 

help.Full-timestudentswho do notreceive 

an AngliaNationalScholarshipwill continue 

to be offered some financialsupport based 

on levelofhouseholdincome. Formore 

informationpleasevisitwww.anglia.ac.uk. 

Childcare Grantand Parents’Learning 

Allowance 

If you're afull-timestudent with children, 

youmay be able to getextra help through 

theChildcare Grant, Parents' Learning 

Allowanceortax credits. Full-timestudents 

with adultdependantsmay be entitled to 

extrahelpfromthe AdultDependants' Grant. 

Part-time students 

If youare apart-time student youcan apply 

for: 

ATuition Loan.FromSeptember 2012 new 

part-timestudentscan apply foratuition 

loan, subjecttothe approval of Parliament. 

Formore information and to apply forloans 

and grants please visit 

www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

Repayments of studentloans 

When repayments start 

Full-timestudents begin repayingstudent 

loansinthe April afterfinishingtheir course, 

if they earn over£21,000. Part-timestudents 

studyingfor more than threeyears start 

repayments in theApril afterthey’vefinished 

threeyears of study,ifthey earn over 

£21,000. 

What you’ll pay back 

Once youearnover£21,000 youpay nine 

percentofyourincomeabove £21,000. 

Repayments are normallytaken 

automaticallyfromyoursalarywithtax and 

National Insurance. 

Loaninterest rates 

Interest is charged on your loanwhileyou’re 

studying. Untilyou startrepayingthe loan, 

interest is charged at therateofinflation 

plus threepercent. 

Council taxexemption 

Full-timestudents, if livingalone,are exempt 

from payingcouncil tax. If youliveina 

householdwithanother non-studentaged 

over18, then thehousehold qualifies fora 

25%discountonthe council taxbill.

Howtoapply 

Please be aware of thedifferent 

applicationproceduresfor full andparttime 

study as stated below. 

1. Full-time study 

Forany full-timeBSc,BA, HND or 

foundation degreecourse, both home and 

internationalstudentsmustapply 

throughthe University andCollege 

AdmissionsService (UCAS)usingthe 

followingmethod: 

UCAS ‘apply’web based application 

system 

Forfurther details on theapplication 

process pleasecontact UCAS on 

0871 4680468orviewtheir extensive 

webpageat www.ucas.com.Information, 

applicationadvice andcoursedetailsare 

alsoavailablefromschools,collegesand 

advisors. 

Thenormalclosingdatefor receiving 

applications is the2nd week in January. 

If youmissthe deadline, UCAS will still 

accept applications afterthis date andthe 

college receives many applications 

throughout theremainderofthe 

application year,sometimes as lateas 

oneweekbeforethe coursebegins, or 

through‘Clearing’. TheUCAStariffis 

designed to allow higher education 

institutions theopportunity to make 

offersinthe form of points dependingon 

theexaminations thatapplicantsare due 

to sit. An example of atypical offer that 

youmay receivecould be 240points– 

which is equivalentto3C’s or B, Cand D 

at Alevel. After we have considered your 

applicationwewill write to youand notify 

UCAS of ourdecision.Insomecases you 

maybeinvited to attendaninterview 

before we decide whethertooffer youa 

place. Most mature studentsare 

interviewedand forcertain courses an 

interviewisnecessary. 

If we offer youaplace,itmay be: 

•Unconditional –you have satisfied all 

theimmediate requirementsfor 

admission andhavebeenaccepted. 

•Conditional –you must meet certain 

conditions–normally obtainingcertain 

qualificationsorcertain grades in 

examinations. 

UCAS will send youanoffer letter,which 

clearlystatesthe conditions youmust 

meet. 

Institutioncode–The college’s UCAS code 

is W35,the shortinstitution name is 

WESTA. 

2. Part-time study, Access/Pre-degree 

If youwish to study adegree, foundation 

degreeorHNC programmeonapart-time 

basis or an Access/Pre-degreecourseyou 

will need to apply direct to thecollege. 

Please visit www.cwa.ac.uk/apply. 

Disability support 

If you require this guide in adifferent 

format please contactour studentservices 

departmenton01553 761144. 

Thecollege caters forawiderange of 

disabilities andlearningdifficulties andwe 

welcome applications from studentswith 

disabilities or otheradditionalneeds. 

All applications from such students are 

considered fairlyand against thesame 

academic criteria as otherapplicants. If you 

consider your needstobesignificant andwill 

require substantial additional supportplease 

contactour additional supportco-ordinator on 

01553 815483 at your earliestconvenience. 

Youmay alsohaveanindividual supportplan. 

This details therecommendedsupportfor your 

difficulties and/ordisability,but canalso 

include special arrangementsfor medication 

andexaminations. If youpassacopytothe 

college we will look to respond. 

Will Iget any help with funding? 

Both full-timeand part-timehighereducation 

studentswithdisabilities maybeeligible for 

extrafinancialsupport.This includesDisabled 

Students'Allowances (DSA), Access to Learning 

Fund,Disability LivingAllowanceand 

Employmentand SupportAllowance. 

Formoreinformationpleasevisit 

www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance. 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

7

Animal Behaviour and 

Veterinary Nursing 

Foundation Degree (FdSc) Applied Animal Behaviour 

D390 -FdSc/AAB 

Course description 

In this two year programmestudents will benefit from the 

practicaltrainingand work experience thatformanimportant 

part of all foundation degrees,alongside athoroughtrainingin 

scientifictheoryand principles, with aparticularemphasis on the 

study of animal behaviourand welfare.Moduledeliverywill be 

complementedbyeducationalvisits to appropriateanimal care 

andhousing facilities such as zoologicalgardens andwildlife 

parks,veterinaryhospitals andanimal rehabilitation centres. 

Applicants must have agenuineinterestinanimal behaviour, 

health andwelfare.They must be keen to learnhow to understand 

andinterpret thebehaviourofawiderange of domestic and 

captiveanimals as well as provideeducation andsupportfor 

animal handlers and/orowners. They should be good 

communicators andenjoy teamwork. 

Course length: 2years full-timeor4years part-time 

Location: Cambridgecampus(Milton) 

Entryrequirements: 

•Interview required 

•All applicants must have aminimum of fiveGCSEsatgrade Cor 

above(to include English language,maths andone science 

subject; equivalentlevel twoqualificationsinmathematics and 

English are alsoacceptable) 

•Aminimum of 120UCAS tariffpoints to ideallyinclude at least 

oneAlevel in abiologicalscience,aBTECorC&G qualification in 

ascience subject, an appropriateadvanced GNVQ or equivalent 

qualifications(considered on theirown merit) 

•Students whohavethe appropriateGCSEsbut maynot have 120 

UCAS points maybeeligible forentry.This will be assessed at 

interview, usingportfolioevidenceand employerreferences 

We plan to offerthe BSc(Hons) in 

Veterinary Nursingand Applied Animal 

Behaviour for2012/13but are awaiting 

validation forthiscourse.Pleasevisit 

www.cwa.ac.uk forfurther details. 


8 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

Foundation Degree (FdSc) Veterinary Nursingand 

Applied Animal Behaviour 

D990 -FdSc/VNAAB 

Animal Behaviour and 

Veterinary Nursing 

Course length: 3years full time or 6years part-time 




•All applicants must have aminimum of fiveGCSEsatgrade 

Corabove (toinclude English language,maths andone 

sciencesubject;equivalentleveltwo qualificationsin 

mathematicsand English are alsoacceptable) 

•Aminimum of 120UCAS tariffpointstoinclude at leastone 

Alevelinabiologicalscience,aBTECorC&G qualification in 

ascience subject, an appropriateadvanced GNVQ or 

equivalentqualifications(considered on theirown merit) 

•Students whohavethe appropriateGCSEsbut maynot have 

120UCAS points maybeeligible forentry.Typicallythis 

would include thosewho are in possessionofrecognised 

RCVS qualifications. This will be assessed at interview, 

usingportfolioevidenceand employerreferences 

•Students should alsobeawarethatthe RCVS requiresnewly 

qualified nurses to discloseinformationrelatingtoany 

conviction,includingdrugs offences to be disclosed when 

registering. Thereforestudents with theseconvictions may 

notbeacceptedontothe course 


This programmecombinesthe practicaltrainingand work 

experience requiredtobecomeanRCVS registered veterinary 

nurse, alongsideabroader programmeofstudyfor foundation 

degree. Studentswillreceive thorough traininginscientific 

theoryand principleswithaparticularemphasis on thestudy of 

animal behaviour, welfare andanimal nursing. In addition, 

studentswillberequired to developextensivework-basedskills 

duringanextendedperiodofplacement within RCVS approved 

veterinarytrainingpractices. 

Applicants must have agenuineinterestinanimal health and 

welfare.They must be keen to learnhow to provideexpert 

nursingcare fordomesticanimals as well as educationand 

supportfor theirowners. They should have aclear 

understandingofthe rangeofpractical work requiredina 

veterinarysurgery (preferablyvia work experience), be agood 

communicatorand enjoyteamwork. 

This course is offered subjecttovalidation. 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

9

Business 

BA (Hons) Business Management 

N200 -BA/BusMgt 


Theaim of this courseistoequip youwithasolid foundation 

in business andmanagementtheory. Youwill alsohavethe 

opportunity to developarange of practicalskills andanalytical 

techniquescurrently used within anumber of business areas. 

Thewiderange of courseoptions enable you to focus on areas 

of particular interest,ortoprepare forspecificprofessional 

requirements. Closetieswithinternational industry andbusiness 

ensure thatcoursecontent is aligned with contemporary 

business practice. 

This courseisaboutpreparingyou forthe worldofbusiness, 

which meansnot just givingyou theskills thatare in usetoday, 

butdevelopingyou intellectuallysothatyou cancontinuetolearn 

andgrowafter yougraduate, andkeepupwiththe fast-changing 

commercial environment. 


Location: King’s Lynn campus 



•Atleast tworelevantAlevels at gradeDorabove (i.e.120 

points or National Certificate/Diploma in Business double 

meritorabove or Access qualification at meritlevel) 

•Mature students withoutthe aboveare considered 

dependingonrelevantexperienceand aptitude 


Lesley Wilson, BA (Hons) Business Management 

“I worked full-time in an administrationrole for20years but 

wasrecently made redundant. Itried to look at this 

positively as it gave me theopportunity to study fora 

degree,anambition I've hadfor alongtime but 

not beeninthe position to do.” 

“I’mreallyenjoyingthe coursesofar;our tutors are very 

approachable andextremely knowledgeableand as theclassis 

quitemixed in termsofagesand previous experience we have 

foundthatwecan all learnfromeachother.” 

“The fact thatIcan study foradegreeonmydoorstepmeans thatgoing back to college is arealistic 

option forme. Iwould neverhavebeenabletomanageitwithmyfamilyifIhadhad to travel.” 

,, 

ThefactthatIcan 

study foradegreeon 

my doorstep means 

that goingbackto 

college is arealistic 

option forme.,, 

10 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

DiplomaHigher Education in Business Management(DipHE) 

N203 -DipHE/BusMgt 

Business 




•For thefull-timecourseapplicants will need at leasttwo 

relevantAlevelsatgrade Eorabove (i.e.80pointsor 

National AwardinBusiness,minimum gradedoubleE) 

or apassatAccess level 

•For part-timeentry students will be expectedtoholdthe 

aboveorarelevantHNC levelorequivalent 

•Mature students withoutthese qualificationswill be 

considered basedonrelevantexperienceand aptitude 


Theaim of this courseistoequip youwithasolid foundation in 

business andmanagementtheory. Youwill alsohavethe 

opportunity to developarange of practicalskills andanalytical 

techniquescurrently used within anumber of business areas. 

Thewiderange of courseoptions enable youtofocus on areas of 

particular interest,ortoprepare forspecificprofessional 

requirements. Closetieswithinternational industry andbusiness 

ensure thatcoursecontent is aligned with contemporary business 

practice. 

This courseisaboutpreparingyou forthe worldofbusiness,which 

meansnot just givingyou theskills that are in usetoday,but 

developing youintellectuallysothatyou cancontinuetolearn and 

grow afteryou graduate,and keep up with thefast-changing 

commercial environment. 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

11

Childcare 

BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies 

X310 -BA/ECS 


Ourdegreewill provideyou with theknowledge andskills to 

enable youtotakeuparange of roleswithin an early-years 

environment,and actasapositiveinfluence in thelives of young 

children. Created in response to developments in research and 

government policy,our coursedraws on anumber of disciplines 

to producegraduates whocan facilitate andsupport thewellbeingofyoung 

children. 

This degreeisrun overathreeyearperiod, with awiderange of 

modulesstudied. 

Course length: 3years,full-time 




•Applicants must be aged 18 or over 

•Alevels in suitable subjects equivalentto200 UCAS points 

(pleasenoteASlevel points are notcounted towards thetariff 

requiredfor this programme) 

•FiveGCSEsatgrade Corabove includingEnglish,mathematics 

andscience 

•Our published entryrequirements are aguide only andour 

decision will be basedonyouroverall suitability forthe course 

as well as whetheryou meet theminimum entryrequirements 


BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies–3rd year 


This courseisdesignedfor thosestudentswho have successfully 

gained aFoundationDegree(FdA) in EarlyYears,Playwork& 

Educationand whowish to achievethe full BA (Hons) in Early 

ChildhoodStudies. 

This degreewill enable you to take up arange of roleswithin an 

early-years environment andact as apositiveinfluence in the 

lives of youngchildren. Created in response to developments in 

research andgovernment policy,this coursedraws on anumber 

of disciplines to producegraduates whocan facilitate andsupport 

thewell-being of youngchildren. 

Course length: 1yearfull-timeor2years part-time 




•Successful completionofthe Foundation Degree(FdA) 

EarlyYears,Playwork&Education 

•CRB check 

•Note: if youwish to progress to qualified teacherstatusor 

earlyyears professionalstatus pleasecheck thecurrent 

entryrequirements forEnglish,maths andscience 

12 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

Foundation Degree (FdA) Early Years, Playwork &Education 

LX5H -Fda/EYCEd 

Childcare 

Course length: 2years full-timeorupto4years part-time 




•Applicants must be aged 18 or over 

•Applicantsshouldhaveaminimum of twoyears’proven 

relevantworkexperienceand be able to arrange to spendtwo 

days aweekinanearlyyears setting, if notalreadydoing so 

•Applicants must have relevantlevel3qualifications 

•Level2Englishqualification (GCSE,GCE gradeCorabove, 

CSE grade1orlevel2adult literacy) 

•Pleasenote: if youwish to progress to Qualified Teacher 

Status or EarlyYears ProfessionalStatus, pleaseensure that 

youcheck thecurrent requirements forEnglish,maths and 

sciencequalifications 

•CRB check 


This courseisdesignedfor peoplewithsuitablelevel3 

qualifications, preferably in childcare,who have experience working 

in an early-years environment.The degreewill appeal to youifyou 

have an interest in youngchildren’slearningand development. 

Youwill explore youngchildren’sphysical, social,emotional, 

language andcognitive developmentand current policies and 

practices, usingexamplesdrawn from theUKand elsewhere. 

Thefocus is on gainingthe vocational skills requiredtosucceed 

within an early-years,playworkand educationalsetting andon 

givingyou theskills requiredtocontinuetodevelop in orderto 

meet thedemands of an ever-changingenvironment. 

Thefoundationdegreeisrun overatwo year period,withawide 

rangeofmodules to study.Aworkplacement of 700hours will be 

an essential part of theprogramme. 

PaulaReed, Foundation Degree (FdA) Eary Years, Childcare &Education 

Paulacompletedthe Foundation DegreeEarlyYears,Childcare andEducation 

(now called Foundation Degree(FdA) EarlyYears,Playwork&Education) andis 

currently toppingituptoafull BA (Hons) whileworkingatSt. Michaels Family 

Centre,King’sLynn.She appliedtothe college to complete ahighereducation 

levelcourseasshe wantedtoextendher learningand knowledge. Thelocation 

wasalsoconvenienttobothhomeand work. 

“The thingIenjoy mostabout comingtocollege is theopportunity to meet new 

people and extend my knowledge.Asamaturestudentitreally boostedmy 

confidencebothpersonally and professionally. Thethings Ihavelearntand theskills 

Ihavedeveloped at college have supportedmeatwork and enabled me to supportmycolleagues” said Paula. 

Paulawould saytoanyonethinkingaboutstudyingahighereducation courseatCWA “Do it!Itprovidesyou with a 

valuable learningexperience, which will last alifetime.You shouldnot underestimatethe dedication and 

commitmentneeded to undertake aHEcourse but thesense of pride and achievementwhen yousucceed makes 

it all worthwhile.” 

,, 

Do it!It 

provides you 

with avaluable 

learning 

experience, 

which will last 

alifetime. 

,, 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

13

Computing 

BSc(Hons) Computer Science 

G401-BSc/CS 


This courseisfor anyone wishingtoworkincomputing, 

networkinginformationtechnology or business information 

systems, or anyone wishingtoprogress to aPGCEand work either 

as ateacherorlecturer. 

Likeall higher levelcomputing courses at thecollege theBSc 

(Hons) is module basedand covers thebasic areas of computing 

andinformationtechnology.Modules are primarilypractical based 

whereverpossible,usingawiderange of relevantsoftware on a 

varietyofcomputerplatforms. 





•Alevels in suitable subjects equivalentto200 UCAS points or 

National Diploma/Awardequivalentto200 UCAS points (merit, 

merit,merit)or 

•Successful completionofanAccess to computingcourseas 

an alternativetoAlevels 

•Applicantswithsuitableexperiencewill alsobeconsidered 

•All studentsmusthaveGCSE mathematicsatgrade Corabove 

or equivalent 


Mathew Frost, BSc(Hons) Computer Science 

“I've always been interested in technologyand how things 

worked so Istudied aBTEC National Diplomafor IT Practitioners 

course at thecollege straightfromschool. By theend of my 

BTEC course Iknew Iwantedtotake my studyingfurther at 

CWA; Ihad made agreat group of friends and found the 

lecturersvery knowledgeable and always willingtohelp. 

Istayed at CWAtocomplete theBSc (Hons) Computer Science. 

Thecourseisstructuredwell, with agreat mix of interestingand 

challengingmodules.The fact thatmyclasswas relatively small 

comparedtothe classsizes of auniversity meantthatthe lecturers 

reallydid have time foryou if youwerestrugglingand wouldget involved in 

personal projectsand wouldoffer theiropinionsand advice. 

TheBSc (Hons) Computer Scienceisagreat waytostepintothe worldofcomputing.Ihavesincetaken 

on full-timeemploymentatCWA in thestatistical investigationdepartmentwhere Iutilisethe skills 

thatIacquired in my degreeonaday-to-day basis.” 

,, 

By theend of my 

BTEC courseIknewI 

wantedtotakemy 

studyingfurther at CWA; 

Ihad made agreat group 

of friends.,, 

14 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

Foundation Degree (FdSc) Computer Science 

L100 FdSc/CS 

Computing 





•Alevels in suitable subjects equivalentto160 UCAS points or 

National Diploma/Awardequivalentto160 UCAS points 

(merit,merit,pass) or 

•Successful completionofanAccess to computingcourseas 

an alternativetoAlevels 

•Applicants with suitable experience will alsobeconsidered 

•All students must have GCSE mathematicsatgrade Cor 

aboveorequivalent 


This courseisfor anyone wishingtoworkincomputing,networking 

informationtechnology or business informationsystems,who do 

notnecessarilyhavethe academicqualificationsfor thefull BSc 

(Hons) course. As with all foundation degrees thereisastrong 

elementofworkbased learning. 

Likeall higher levelcomputing courses at thecollege,the FdSc 

is module basedand coversthe basicareas of computingand 

informationtechnology.Modules are primarilypractical based 

whereverpossible,usingawiderange of relevantsoftware on a 

varietyofcomputerplatforms. 

Thecourse offers thefollowingmodules: 

Year 1 

•Fundamentals of design –softwaredesignmethodologies 

•Introduction to programming–usingC# 

•Computersystems –how computerswork, theCPU, 

computer logic 

•Understanding theworksector 

•Workbased learning–industrialplacement basedlearning 

Year 2 

•Objectorientedprogramming –further programmingusingC++ 

•Databasedesignand implementation–UsingMySQL 

•Computernetwork principles-follows theCISCO CCNA 

semesters1and 2syllabus 

•Interaction andusability 

•Systems modellingand software design patterns 

•Workbased learning–industrialplacement basedlearning 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

15

Construction and 

Civil Engineering 

HNCDiplomainConstruction 


This courseisfor thosewho wish to developaprofessional 

approach to construction –bothonand off-site.Studentswho 

have beenonthe coursepreviouslyhavecomefromemployment 

areas such as design,sitemanagement, quantity surveying, 

surveyingand craftareas. 

Theconstructiondepartmenthas over30years of experience in 

deliveringHEprogrammes andhas always given ahighprofileto 

this part of itsprovision. Thecourseoffersaflexible,modular 

driven programme, which provides students with high quality 

learningexperiences.Our programmedirectly servicesthe needs 

of localand national contractors, thus enablingthe department to 

maintain itslinks with theroots of theindustry. 

Course length: 2years part-timeand will involveday release 

comprisingof34weeks peryear 




•Applicantsmustpossessone (ormore) of thefollowing: 

•AGNVQ Advanced BuiltEnvironment 

•BTECNationalinConstruction 

•Craft qualification plus work experience/bridgingunits 

•Workexperienceinaconstructionarea 

•Mature applicants considered 


16 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

Level 4DiplomainCivil Engineering(HNC) 

Level 5DiplomainCivil Engineering(HND) 

Construction and 

Civil Engineering 

Course length: 

HNC -2years consistingofday release 

HND -2years consistingofblock release(15 weeks peryear). 

Therewill be 2blocksofstudy each year,one of 7weeks the 

otherof8 




•BTECNationalCertificate in Civil Engineeringorin 

Construction (with further mathematicsand structural 

mechanics units) 

•GNVQ (Advanced)BuiltEnvironment 

•Any otherqualification deemed to be theequivalentofthe 

above 

•Mature candidates will be considered 


This courseissuitablefor all thosewithakeeninterestin 

progressingtowards acivil engineeringqualification. 

Intellectual, technicaland managerial skills are developed 

throughout this course, makingcivil engineers highlysoughtafter 

in many fields–not just in thecivil engineeringindustry. 

Coveringawiderange of subjects,throughoutthis course 

emphasis is placed on aproblem-solvingapproachand the 

appropriateness of teamwork in theconstructionindustry. 

Useismadeofinformationtechnology andcomputersystems. 

Will Smart, Level 5DiplomainCivil Engineering(HND) 

Will appliedtocomplete ahighereducation levelcourseat 

CWAas“it wasthe only waytostudyanHND in block 

releaseformat. Ihavealsopreviouslystudiedatthe 

college,soknewthe tutors were good.” 

,, 

Iwould definitely 

recommendgoing on this 

course. 

,, 

“The thingIenjoy most aboutcomingtocollege is the 

challengeofwork, butitisalsoanice change of scenery.” 

Once Will hasfinished this courseheplans to work as acivil 

engineerand possibly go on to study adegreelevelcourse. 

Will wouldsay to anyone thinkingaboutstudyinghighereducation at theCollege of West Anglia 

“I couldn’t commentonother courses,but forcivil engineeringIwould definitely recommend 

goingonthis course.” 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

17

Engineering 

BTEC Higher National Certificate(HNC) in Electrical / 

Electronic EngineeringorMechanical Engineering 

(The college is proposingtorun theBTEC Higher National Diploma(HND) in Electrical /Electronic EngineeringfromSeptember 2012.Please see www.cwa.ac.uk forlatestinformation) 


TheHNC dayrelease courseisdesignedtocater forexperienced 

technicianswho are in full-timeemploymentand wish to progress 

to technician engineerstatus. 

This courseisdesignedtohelpstudents whowishtoenter the 

industry as technician engineers with design,managerialor 

developmentresponsibilities.The HNCisa2year, level4,parttime 

course. Academic standardsare high,and thecommitment 

of staffand studentsensureshighlymotivatedand competent 

graduates, well equipped to succeed in theengineeringindustry. 

BTEC courses are practicallybased. TheCollege of West Anglia’s 

technology department facilities include:PLC,PIC,robotics, 

hydraulic, pneumatic, tensiletesting,60W laser cutter,3Dprinter, 

XYZCNC lathe, HASS CNCmillingmachineand strain gauge 

equipment plus Solidworks,Autocad,Multisim,GXdeveloper and 

PCB software. 

Course length: 2years dayrelease comprising34–36weeks 

peryear(part-time) 




•NationalCertificate in Engineering(minimum of gradeofmerit) 

•NationalDiploma or Alevelsinmaths or science 

This courseisopentoapplicantsofall ages provided they meet 

theentry requirements, or canprovethattheyhaveasimilar 

levelofinterest/experienceinthe engineeringfield.Applications 

with equivalentqualificationsorrelevantexperiencewill be 

considered andtheir suitability assessed duringinterview. 

Otherentry requirementsand/orexperiencewill be considered 

duringacollege interview. 


Glen Roberts,BTEC Higher National Certificate(HNC) in 

Electrical /Electronic Engineering. 

Glen is in theRoyal Air Force, whohavesupportedhim 

financially to be able to do thecourse. Glen said: “I am a 

fullyqualified mechanicalengineerinthe RAF butasIam 

comingout soon andonthe resettlement programme 

Iwantedtoretrain as an electrical engineer.” 

“The courseisgood; it includespractical andtheorywhich 

allowsyou to putintopractice what we’re beingtaught. Ihavealso 

noticedthatthe practicalworkcertainlybuilds up your confidenceinthe 

subject. Thegroup is very mixed in termsofexperienceand agewhich hasworkedtoour 

advantage; it meanswecan all learnfromeachother as well.” 

,, 

Thegroup is very 

mixed in termsof 

experience andage which 

hasworkedtoour 

advantage; it meanswe 

canall learnfromeach 

otheraswell.,, 

18 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

Foundation Degree (FdSc) in MotorsportEngineering 

H330 -FdSc/MotE 

Engineering 


Location: Isle campus 



•NationalDiploma in MotorsportorEngineering, or 

•NationalCertificate in Motorsport or Engineering, or 

•Two Alevels in mathsand science 

•Applicants with industrial experience mayalsobe 

considered 


Thefoundationdegreeisdesignedfor individuals workinginthe 

motorsportindustryorthose wishingtomove into this area. 

In either case youwill need to be actively involved in motorsport 

in some capacity. 

Youwill coverabroad rangeoftopicsincluding: engineering 

science, aerodynamics,computerapplicationsinmotorsport, 

vehiclesystems,materials andmanufacturing, competitioncar 

preparation, enginetechnology andorganisingcompetition events. 

Thesewill be delivered throughalargely hands-on approach;for 

exampleyou will be expectedtoattendraceeventsand support 

competingracecars.Inthe workshop youwill be able to practise 

andshowyourskills in thepreparation of race cars forcompetition 

events. This,withthe race events,will enable youtogain 

experience of industry practicesand standards. 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

19


BSc(Hons) Equine Studies 

D42F -BSc/ES 


This threeyearprogrammehas beendevised forjoint delivery 

between AngliaRuskin University andthe College of West Anglia. 

It hasbeendesignedtomeetthe academic andpractical needsof 

abroad rangeofindividuals seekingcareer pathways within the 

growingequineindustry. 

Thecoursewill impart afundamental understandingofhorse 

anatomy, physiology,healthand traditionaltrainingmethods. 

Students will also be given theopportunity to explore both the 

scienceand practicalapplication of thelatesttechniquesinthe 

equineworld such as:reproduction throughartificial insemination, 

trainingtechniquesand equinerehabilitation,includingequine 

hydrotherapy. 

Classtuition will be complemented by arange of visits to equine 

establishments. 

Work-based learningisafundamental aspectofthe degreeand a 

percentage of this will be gained throughpractical work within the 

College of West Anglia’sequinefacilities.Inaddition, aminimum 

period of asix weeksworkplacement in asuitableequestrian 

business duringthe summer of thefirstyearisarequirement of 

thecourse. Studentsare expectedtotakeresponsibility for 

arranginginterviewswithsuitablelocal businesses fortheir 

work-based placement. 





•All applicants must have aminimum of fiveGCSEsatgrade Cor 

above(to include English language,mathematics andone 

sciencesubject) 

•Aminimum of 220UCAS (BSc) tariffpointstoinclude at leastone 

Alevelinabiologicalscience,aBTECorC&G qualification in a 

sciencesubject,anappropriate advanced GNVQ or equivalent 


•Students whohavethe appropriateGCSEsbut maynot have 220 

UCAS points maybeeligible forentry.This will be assessed at 

interview, usingportfolioevidenceand employerreferences 

•Evidenceofpractical experience in an equinebusiness priorto 

commencing thecourseisrequired 


20 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

Foundation Degree (FdSc) Equine Studies 

D422 -FdSc/EqS 


Course length: 2years full time or 4years part-time 




•All applicants must have aminimum of fiveGCSEs 

at gradeCorabove (toinclude English language 

andtwo sciencesubjects) 

•Aminimum of 120UCAS tariffpoints to include at 

leastone Alevelinabiologicalscience,aBTECor 

C&G qualification in ascience subject, an 

appropriateAdvancedGNVQ or equivalent 


•Students whohavethe appropriateGCSEsbut may 

nothave120 UCAS points maybeeligible forentry. 

This will be assessed at interview, usingportfolio 

evidence andemployerreferences. Evidence of 

practicalexperienceinanequinebusiness priorto 

commencing thecourseisrequired 


This two year programmehas beendevised forjoint deliverybetween 

AngliaRuskin University andthe College of West Anglia. It hasbeen 

designed to meet theacademicand practicalneedsofabroad rangeof 

individuals seekingcareer pathways within thegrowingequineindustry. 

Thecoursewill impart afundamental understandingofhorse anatomy, 

physiology,healthand traditionaltrainingmethods.Studentswill alsobe 

given theopportunity to explore both thescience andpractical 

applicationofthe latest techniquesinthe equineworld such as: 

reproduction throughartificial insemination; trainingtechniquesand 

equinerehabilitation,includingequinehydrotherapy. 

Classtuition will be complemented by arange of visits to equineevents 

andestablishments. 

Work-based learningisafundamental aspectofthe degreeand a 

percentage of this will be gained throughpractical work within the 

College of West Anglia’sequinefacilities.Inaddition, aminimum period 

of six weeksworkplacement in asuitableequestrian business during 

thesummer of thefirstyearisarequirement of thecourse. Studentsare 

expectedtotakeresponsibility forarranginginterviewswithsuitable 

localbusinesses fortheir work-based placement. 

Stefanie Spielhaupter, Foundation Degree (FdSc) Equine Studies 

Stefanieapplied to thecollege to complete thefoundation 

degreeinequinestudiesasthey didnot offer asuitable 

courseinGermany.“When Ifound this courseIknewit 

wouldbeagoodopportunity to gain practicaland 

theoretical knowledge” said Stefanie. 

Thethingshe most enjoys aboutcomingtocollege is “the 

fact Icould choose which courseIwanttostudyaccording 

to my interests.” 

Once Stefaniefinishes thecourseshe plans to getajob within 

theequineindustryeitherinGermany or theUKspecialisingin 

breeding, trainingortherapy. 

“I wouldsay to anyone thinkingaboutcomingtoCWA to study ahighereducation levelcoursethat 

it is agreat experience.Itgives youachancetostudyasubject youare interested in andwill 

hopefullyhelpyou to findworkinthe same area.” 

,, 

Iknewitwould 

be agoodopportunity 

to gain practicaland 

theoretical knowledge.,, 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

21

Humanities 

BA (Hons) History and English Literature 

QV31-BA/EH 


Studyinghistory andEnglish gives youthe opportunity to 

examinehistoricaleventsand literacy textssidebyside. 

Applicants need nothavestudied thesesubjectsrecentlyoreven 

at all to be accepted on to thecourse. 

This fascinatingdegreeencouragesyou to engage with newideas 

andnew ways of reading, as youdevelopyourabilities to think 

critically, communicate effectivelyand articulate your ideas 

clearlyand succinctly. 

In year 1examplesofmodules on offer at presentinclude 

‘Introduction to English Literature’and ‘Introduction to Western 

Civilisation’ (History); in otherwords,these are generalmodules 

to givestudentsbackgroundmaterialfor more specialised study 

in years 2and 3. Examplesfor year 2and 3inEnglish at present 

are ‘Shakespeare andhis Contemporaries’ and‘Women’sWriting,’ 

andfor History‘HistoryToday’and ‘the United States in the 

Twentieth Century.’ 

Thereare up to 12 hours of classesaweekspreadacrosspartof2 

to 3daysper week.Dependingonmodulecombinations, this may 

occasionallystretch to part of 4days. 




•Interview sometimesrequired 

•Two D’satAlevelorapassfor theAccess to Higher Education 

Diploma with some units at meritorabove 


IlonaSmith,BA(Hons) History and English Literature 

Ilonaiscurrently studyingthe BA (Hons) 

History and English Literature and says 

“the two subjects complement each other 

brilliantlyand topics from each subject 

will oftencrossover. Historyissimilar 

to beingadetective,gatheringhistorical 

evidence hasopenedmyeyesto 

differinginterpretations. Studying 

English literature hasmademethink of 

critical perspectivesand ideasthatIhad 

neverconsideredbeforestartingmydegree.” 

“Now thatmychildrenare of school ageIfeltthatIhad thetimeto 

further my education andpursue acareer path thathas interested me 

foralongtime. Initiallybeing astudentagain wasadaunting idea so 

Idecidedtocomplete an Access coursetoget me into theswingof 

learningagain” said Ilona. 

“Being amum meantthatIwas restricted by travellinglongdistances 

so it wasarelieftodiscover thatIcould study adegreecourselocally. 

Beingamature student is abonus as Ifeelthatlifeexperiencehas 

enabledmetocontributeand apply differentperspectivesto 

assignments andseminar discussions. Ihavebeenout of education for 

asubstantial amount of time butthe supportand guidancefromthe 

teachingstaff hasgiven me ahugeamountofconfidencetoaccomplish 

my ambition.” 

ThethingIlona most enjoys aboutcomingtocollege is “learningand 

discoveringnew concepts andwaysofthinking. Beingatcollege has 

given me adifferentperspective on lifeand above all confidence.”Once 

shehas completedher degreeIlona is contemplatingteachingbut would 

liketoextendher education further by possibly studyingfor an MA. 

“I foundthe college wasextremely childfriendlyinthatlectureswould 

oftenstart afterthe morningschoolrun andend before school finished. 

Theconfidencethatstudyingadegreecoursegives youispriceless so 

thereforeIwould sayhurryupand enrol! Youwill have an amazing 

experience;discover newthings aboutyourselfyou neverknew, gain 

skills andahugeamountofpride.You will meet some amazingpeople 

andmakegreat lifelongfriends.Itisawonderful opportunity!” 

22 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

BA (Hons) Sociologyand English Literature 

QL33-BA/ES 

Humanities 


Thefieldsofsociology andEnglish form apowerful combination, 

allowingyou to apply insights from each areatoenhance your 

understandingand enjoymentofthe other. Applicants need not 

have studiedthese subjects at all or even recently to be accepted 

on to thecourse. 

In this fascinatingcourseyou will examinethe structures, 

institutions,powers, relationsand desiresthatmotivate and 

controlhuman beings andtheir activities,encouragingyou to look 

Course length: 3years full-timeorupto6years part-time. 




•Two D’satAlevelorapassfor theAccess to Higher 

EducationDiploma with some units at meritorabove 

beneaththe surfaceofwhatwemosttakegranted aboutlife. 

TheseInsightscan giveusnew ways of interpretingand 

understandinghuman existence. 

Study skills classesand tutorials are alsoavailabletoassist 

learning. 

In year 1examplesofmodules on offer at presentinclude 

‘Introduction to English Literature’and ‘SocialScience andSociety’; 

in otherwords,general moduleswhich prepare youfor more 

specialised modulesinyears 2and 3. Examples foryears 2and 3 

at presentinclude,for English,‘Shakespeare andhis 

Contemporaries’ and‘Women’sWriting,’ andfor Sociology, 

‘Knowledgeand Belief’and ‘SocialResearch Methods’. 





www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

23

Humanities 

BA (Hons) History and Sociology 

LV31 -BA/SH 


Thefieldsofhistory andsociology form apowerful combination, 

allowingyou to apply insights from each areatoenhance your 

understandingand enjoymentofthe other. Applicants need not 

have studiedthese subjects recently or evenatall to be accepted 

on to thecourse. 

In this fascinatingcourseyou will examinethe structures, 

institutions,powers,relations anddesiresthatmotivate and 

controlhuman beings andtheir activities,encouragingyou to look 

beneaththe surfaceofwhatwemosttakegranted aboutlife. These 

insights cangiveusnew ways of interpretingand understanding 

humanexistence. 

Examples of year 1modules at presentinclude ‘Introduction to 

WesternCivilisation,’(History) and‘SocialScience andSociety’ 

(Sociology); in otherwords,general moduleswhich introduceyou 

to background knowledge, in preparationfor more specialized 

modulesinyears 2and 3. Examples of year 2and 3modules at 

presentare ‘History Today’ and‘theUnitedStatesinthe Twentieth 

Century’ (History)and ‘Knowledgeand Belief’and ‘SocialResearch 

Methods’ (Sociology). 








•Two D’satAlevel or apassfor theAccess to Higher Education 

Diploma with some units at meritorabove 


SamBradley, BA (Hons) History and Sociology 

Sam appliedtoCWA to complete adegreeas“Ifound the 

college to offer an interestingrange of degreecourses that 

allowedmetokeepmylocal commitments butalsofurther 

my education.” 

Once Sam hascompletedhis degreeheplans to complete a 

Postgraduate Certificate in Education(PGCE) andmove into 

teaching. 

“I particularlyenjoy thefriendlyclassroomatmosphere andthe staff 

are very approachable andhelpful.Iwould saytoanyonethinkingaboutapplyingtoCWA thatif 

youenjoy afriendlyand helpful studyingenvironment then thecollege is agreat choice.” 

,, 

Iparticularlyenjoy 

the friendly classroom 

atmosphere andthe staff 

are very approachable 

andhelpful.,, 

24 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

BA (Hons) Psychosocial Studies 

C880 -BA/PS 

Psychology&Sociology 




•Interview mayberequired 

•Atleast tworelevantAlevels at gradeDorabove 

•Orpassorabove at Access level, with threeunits at merit 

or above 

•Mature studentswithequivalentqualificationsor 

appropriateemploymentexperiencemay alsobe 

considered foranentry onto theprogramme 


Thecourseisaimed at individuals whoare interested in 

psychology, sociology andcriminology,and enjoyworkingwithin 

avarietyofacademicsubjects. 

Full-timeand part-timestudentstakeavarietyofbothcoreand 

choice modulesinorder to buildupaprogrammeofstudywhich 

suitstheir ownsubject interest or future career plans. All students 

have apersonaltutor whothey canmeetatleast twice asemester 

to review progress andassistwithany personal or academic 

problems.Duringthe firstyearofthe programmestudy skills 

classesprovide an opportunity to hone skills relevanttohigher 

education. 

JoanneJones,BA(Hons) Psychosocial Studies 

“Beforejoiningthe college Ihad fewprospects forthe future and 

chosethe College of West Angliabecause Ilivelocally.” 

“Supportive tutors were always available fortutorials,guidance 

andreassurance when needed. They made me realiseIcould 

study,run abusyhouseholdand bringuptwo youngchildren.” 

“I wasverynervous at first, although thenervessoonsubsided 

once thefirstfew lessonswerecompleted. In theclassroom, 

debatessoonbecamemoreforthcoming, which aidedour learning.” 

“I have nowstarted teachingpsychology to Access studentsand am due to 

begin my Diploma in Teachinginthe LifelongLearningSector(DTLLS). Ialsohope to do amasters 

degreeinpsychology at some pointinthe future.” 

“StartingmystudiesatCWA wasdefinitely thebeginningofajourneytowards my final goal of teaching.” 

,, 

Starting my 

studiesatCWA was 

definitely thebeginning 

of ajourney towards my 

final goal of teaching.,, 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

25

Teacher Training & 

Education 

BA (Hons) Post-Compulsory Education &Training 

(PCET) –Part-time 


This programmehas beendesignedtoprovide continuing 

developmentfor professionals whoare supporting learningin 

further,adult andcommunity education andwho alreadyholda 

Certificate of Educationorsimilar teachingqualification. 

Themodules which make up theprogrammehavebeendesigned 

to buildonand broadenthe experience gained as part of your 

teachingqualification in ordertohelpyou gain aclear insightinto 

asystemwhich hasbeendescribed as “diverse with complexand 

varied patterns of provision”(Foster report,2005: 91). 

Theprogrammewill go some waytomeeting theneed for 

continuingprofessional developmentofstaff workinginthe PCET 

sector which wasoutlined in theWhite PaperFurther Education: 

RaisingSkills,ImprovingLifeChances (DfES,March 2005). 

Thecourseisdelivered throughtaughtmodules,one nightper 

week,withstudentsundertaking60credits of study peryear. 

Thereare two semesterseachyear(SeptembertoJanuary and 

February to May). Each 30 credit module has300 associated 

learninghours,madeupofacombination of teacher-led(classbased) 

andself-directed study. 

Course length: Part-time 

2years (BAPost-CompulsoryEducation &Training) 

3years (BA(Hons)Post-CompulsoryEducation &Training) 




•The standard entryrequirements forthis programmeare 120 

creditsatlevel1and 2. Typicallythese creditswill have been 

gained as part of arecognised teachingprogrammesuchasthe 

Certificate in Education, theCityand Guilds 7407 stages 1, 2 

and3,orthe Diploma in Teachinginthe Lifelong LearningSector 

(DTLLS). Qualificationsshouldbenomorethanfiveyears old 

•The programmedeliversmodules at level2and 3only. 

Thereforeapplicantsare requiredtocomplete a60credit(level 

1) APEL portfoliobeforeregistration 

•Applicantswill normallybeexpectedtobeworkinginan 

appropriaterole in thePCET sector,and to have hadatleast two 

years relevantexperienceinsupportinglearninginthe PCET 

sector 

•All candidates are expectedtoprovideindications of theirability 

to:meetthe demandsofthe programme, benefitfromthe 

programmeand contributetothe programme 


26 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

DiplomainTeachinginthe LifelongLearningSector 

(DTLLS)[Level 5] 

Teacher Training & 

Education 

Course length: 1yearfull-timeor2years part-time 




•For thein-service(part-time) route: aminimum level3 

subject-qualification,orsubstantial experience.Registration 

with theInstitute forLearning(IfL) is mandatory. Level2 

literacy or employer’sexplicitsupport to enable an individual 

to achieve level2literacyinthe first year of thepart-time 

route 

•For thepre-service (full-time) route: aminimum level3 

subject-qualification. Level2literacyand numeracy. 

Successful applicants will be offeredplacessubject to 

satisfactory CRB-check andplacement risk assessment,and 

will be expectedtojointhe Institutefor Learning(IfL) upon 

acceptingaplace on theprogramme. Places on thepreservice 

routeare subjecttocompetitive interview 


This courseisthe teachingqualification associated with the 

‘fullteacher’ role.Itisoffered in two formats: 1) in-service and 

2) pre-service. 

Thein-serviceroute is forpractitioners employedwithin thepostcompulsorysector, 

teachingacrossaminimum of two levels,with 

access to at least150 teachinghours.Practitioners in this role are 

expectedtohaveresponsibility forcurriculum developmentand 

evaluation; work with larger cohortsand with candidates working 

acrossarangeoflevels. 

Thepre-serviceroute is forapplicantswishingtoqualify before 

applyingfor teachingposts in thesector. In thepre-service route, 

thecollege provides teachingplacementswhich satisfy the 

requirementsofthe full-teacher role.The coursecomprises level 

4and level5mandatory andoptionalunits,but will be awardedat 

level5oncompletion. It hasatotal valueof120 credits. 

Maggie Cousins, BA (Hons) Post-Compulsory Education &Training(PCET) 

Maggieapplied to thecollege to complete adegreelevelcourseas“it was 

progressionfrompreviouscourses completedovermanyyears.CWA is 

alsoconvenientlylocated,makingstudyingaffordable.” 

ThethingMaggiemostenjoysaboutcomingtocollege is “learning, 

thinkingand sharingknowledge with like-mindedpeople,inasafe, 

encouraging, honest andfriendlyenvironment.” 

Once Maggiehas finished this courseshe plans to continueteachingand 

learning. Shesays“Iamajourney, notagoalperson. Ienjoy the‘gettingand 

sharing’ of knowledgeand skills andseeingthatwhenwemakeapositive 

difference in ourown lifeitmakes apositivedifference in thelives of others.” 

Maggiewould saytoanyonethinkingaboutstudyingadegreelevelcourseatCWA “Talk to people at the 

college,especiallyHEstaff andcareersadvisorssothatyou canmakeaninformed choice.HEisalways a 

big commitmentsobesure to make this commitmentwithopeneyes. Adegreeisnot meanttobeawalk 

in thepark –but it canbelifechangingand exciting.” 

,, 

Attendevery 

lecture,utiliseevery 

facility andsupport 

network andaim to 

have some fun on the 

way. Andmostofall 

it’s nevertoo late – 

Iam57!,, 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

27

Access/Pre-degree 

Access to Higher Education 


TheCollege of West Angliaisalongstandingand successful 

provider of Access courses.These providesound preparationfor 

higher educationand are an excellentway to take thefirststeps 

towards adegreeorhighernationaldiploma.Our Access courses 

are validatedbythe CambridgeAccess Validating Agency (CAVA) 

andleadtoanationallyrecognised qualification forentry to 

university levelstudy. Thepurpose of theAccess programmeisto 

help studentsregain confidenceand study skills thatmay have 

beenlostthrough previous badexperiences,orthrough time. 

Study time at home should matchthe time youspend in the 

classroom. 


GemmaBarbieri,AccesstoHumanities – 

English, Sociologyand History 

“Iapplied to CWAtostudy fora 

degree as it’s conveniently located 

forme. Ihavetwo children 

attendingschool in King’s Lynn and 

theideaofcommutingwasn’t very 

attractive. Ihavefound thestandard 

of teachingtobeveryhigh, Ilove the 

intimacy of such asmall campus and, as it 

is an AngliaRuskin degreeIdon’t think future 

employers will questionthe standard”saidGemma. 

ThethingGemma most enjoys aboutcomingtocollege is “the small, 

friendly atmosphere andclose relationshipsIhaveformedwiththe 

staff, which will be strengthened overthe next fewyears. The 

mature student lounge is alovely atmosphere to hang outinwitha 

friendly environment andafeelingofcamaraderie.” 

Once Gemmahas completedher degreeshe is contemplating 

teachinginfurther education or movingintojournalism.“Iknowthat 

overthe next 3years I’ll be able to think more in depthand getlotsof 

supportfrommypeers at college andthe staffwhilereachinga 

decision”saidGemma. 

Gemmawould saytoanyonethinkingaboutstudyingadegreeat 

CWA“definitely enrol, come andmeeteveryoneand reallythink 

aboutthe kindoflearningenvironment youwanttolearn in.Abig 

university campus with thewhole‘student lifestyle’may have been 

appealingat18but if,likeme, youare amoremature student a 

small,intimate atmosphere with friendly,knowledgeable and 

approachable staff may make thedifference between whetherornot 

youstick outthe full 3years.” 

Course length: 1year, full-time 

Location: King’s Lynn campus;Islecampus 


•There are no formalentry requirements. Applicants would 

normallybeexpectedtohaveagrade C(or above) in English 

language (andmaths,for scienceand nursingpathway)at 

GCSE or Olevel.However,all applicants will be interviewed and 

if youdonot have this levelofqualification,you maybeasked 

to demonstrateyourability by producing, forexample,apiece 

of writing.You must be aged 19 or over to jointhis course. 

Thereare anumber of different pathways available within the 

combined Access programmeasfollows: 

Humanities and social sciences (King’sLynn &Islecampuses) 

–modules offeredmay include English literature,history, 

psychology,sociology andlaw. 

Scienceand nursing (King’sLynn campus only)–modules can 

be chosen from:human biology;forensicscience;healthand 

community studies; physics; chemistry; psychology; geography 

andlevel 3mathematics.(forprofessions allied to medicine,but 

notmedicineordentistry, forwhich we runaseparateAccess 

course). 

Medicine and dentistry (King’sLynn campus only)–for full 

details of this coursepleasevisitwww.cwa.ac.uk 

28 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

BTEC Foundation DiplomainArt and Design 






•Students are usually18years of ageand should normally 

have at leastone GCEALevelsupported by threeGCSE 

grades A* to C 

•Equivalentqualificationsmay be accepted,i.e.Access, 

National Diploma etc 

•You will be invitedtoattendaninterview at which youwill 

be expectedtoshowaportfolioofworkwhich 

demonstrates evidence of ability andcommitment, while 

suggesting youwill benefitfromdoing thecourse 


Foundation Diploma in Artand Design is ahighprofile, nationally 

recognised qualification.Its primaryaim is to educatestudentsto 

make informed decisionswhich will facilitate theirprogression 

(primarily, butnot exclusively) to appropriatehighereducationin 

artand design.The courseaimstobuildonthe students’ prior 

experience whileintroducingthemtoamuchbroader rangeofart 

anddesignpossibilities thanthey mayhavepreviously 

experienced. Challenges are made andideas are introduced which 

are intended to extend thestudents critical knowledge, 

understandingand independence in readiness to exploit relevant 

progressionopportunities in higher education andcareer choices. 

Theprogrammeischaracterised by experiential,experimentaland 

integrated learning, relyinguponthe developmentofmanualskills, 

whilstvaluingthe accidental anddisruptive resultsthatcan occur. 

Theprogrammeofstudy utilises afull rangeofteachingexpertise 

andlearningopportunities are provided which are necessaryfor 

increasingstudentawareness of thedemands of artand design, 

andthe recognition of thecommonprinciplesand distinctive 

characteristics of subjectdisciplines. 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

29


PreparingtoTeach in theLifelongLearningSector(PTLLS) 


This is an introductory qualification which all newteachersinthe 

learningand skills sector must complete.The PTLLS qualification 

is embeddedintwo otherteachingqualifications: CTLLSand 

DTLLS. This courseisaPTTLS-onlyqualification. 

TheAwardcomprises oneunit, entitled ‘Preparingtoteach in the 

LifelongLearningSector’. This qualification is on theQualification 

CreditFramework (QCF). 

Theassessment is basedonthe teaching/trainingcycle andis 

assessed by two assignments,one theory andone practical, 

both of which are broken down into smaller,prescriptive 

assignmenttasks. 

Course length: 48 hours studiesover9weeks 



•Interview is required 

•Level 3subject qualification,orsubstantial experience 

•You should consider joiningthe Institutefor Learning(IFL) 


30 

www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144

CertificateinTeachinginthe LifelongLearningSector(CTTLS) 






•Level3subject qualification or substantial experience 

•Candidatesare expectedtohaveawork-based(subject 

specialist) mentor 

•Confirmation of at least30hours of teachingpractice 

•Membership of theInstitute forLearning(IFL) 

Formoreinformationvisitwww.ifl.ac.uk 

Michelle Deyna-Hayward 

CertificateinTeachinginthe Lifelong 

LearningSector(CTTLS) 

Aftersuccessfully completingthe 

CTTLScourse Michelle is now 

employed by theCollege of West 

Angliaasalearningsupportofficer 

(LSO)and hopestocontinue her 

studiesatthe King’s Lynn campus. 

“For alongtimeIhavehad adream to teach 

butwentstraightintoworkasaschoolleaver(forfinancialsecurity). 

Ihad averysuccessful career in London butIwas trapped,Iwas time 

poor andunabletogiveupworkcompletely.Ihad to letmyuniversity 

placegoand thoughtIwould neverrealisemyambitionatall. 

Iattendedmyinterview forthe CTLLScourse, with some trepidation 

as Ihad written no more thanashoppinglistfor some time and 

thought‘assignments’ were undertaken by spies” said Michelle. 

Michelle wouldsay to anyone thinkingaboutapplyingtoCWA to 

complete an HE levelcourse“don’teventhink aboutit. Go forit! 

Younot only gain qualificationsand expertiseinyourchosenfield, 

butexperiences,friendshipsand contacts thatcan be taken with you 

throughout your career.” 


This qualification will be taken by practitionersinthe Associate 

TeacherRole.You are deemed to be in an AssociateTeacher Role 

if your responsibilities are to teachpredominantlyinatleast one 

of thefollowingways: 

•frompacks/ pre-preparedmaterials,therefore havingfewer 

responsibilities in design of curriculum andmaterials generally 

•onaone-to-one basis 

•aprogrammeconfined to aparticularlevel/ subject/ type of 

learner(i.e. does notdevelop or deliver afull rangeacrossa 

curriculum area) 

•short courses 

Thequalification is available from City&Guilds at level3and level 

4. It comprises of two andone optional unit. This qualification is on 

theQualification CreditFramework (QCF) 

TheCertificate requiresatleast 30 hours of teachingpractice. 

Observationofpractice is completedthrough aclass-based 

micro-teach andaminimum of threehours of observed practice. 

Elements of theMinimum Core of Literacy,Languageand 

Numeracy will be embeddedinthis qualification. 

Thecourseusuallyrunsone eveningper week. 


www.cwa.ac.uk T: 01553 761144 

31

King’s Lynn Campus: Tennyson Avenue,King’sLynn, Norfolk PE302QW.Tel: 01553 761144 

Cambridge Campus (Milton): Landbeach Road, Milton, Cambridgeshire CB246DB.Tel: 01223860701 

Isle Campus: RamnothRoad, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE132JE.Tel: 01945 582561 

Web: www.cwa.ac.uk 

Email: admissions@col-westanglia.ac.uk 

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Higher Education Course Guide2012/13 - The College of West Anglia

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