Access to Teacher Training

Course Overview
These courses allow mature students to take a modular package of subjects which may be chosen from the wide range available across the whole College. Many students progress to a career in education by taking, for example, the BA in Education with QTS (QualifiedTeacher Status) at Canterbury Christ Church University. It also provides a thorough preparation for other degree courses in humanities or social sciences at The University of Kent or other Higher Education institutions.

Course Structure
The one-year access programme requires attendance for between 12-15 hours per week.

Students take subject units which earn them OCN credits at either level two or level three. A minimum of 60 credits is required, with at least 45 at level three (the equivalent of Advanced level). Study Skills also form a compulsory part of the programme, and provide 12 extra credits at level three. Guidance is given on Higher Education applications as part of the Study Skills/Tutorial programme.

• History includes an introductory element which considers the nature of the subject as an academic discipline; the Industrialisation of Britain; Political Reform movements in nineteenth century Britain; the decline of the Weimar Republic in Germany after WWI, and the rise of Nazi Germany.
• English involves the development of skills such as close textual analysis, understanding narrative techniques etc. Students study the main genres of drama (e.g. Shakespeare, Hare); the novel/prose (e.g. Shelley) and modern poetry. Key periods and topics such as romanticism are also examined.
• Teacher-training involves studying and developing practical skills required in the classroom: teaching methods and the management of learning; design and use of learning resources; types of assessment; communication techniques and self-evaluation.
• GCSE English, Science & Mathematics can also be taken, and are vital for students who wish to enter Teacher Training.

Qualification Aims
OCN Access Certificate

Assessments/Examinations
Assessment methods are varied, including extended essays, critical analysis, timed essays and seminar presentations. The course leads to the award of a certificate validated by the Kent and Medway Open College Network, which is administered from the University of Kent.

Cost / Equipment
Tuition/Registration fees: approx£500 tbc.

Stationery, including a ring binder and pens, will be required. Some text books may also have to be purchased.

Start Date
September 2009