Reading College Full time Prospectus 2013-14

Welcome 3

Why Reading College? 4

Learning environment 6

Make it your college experience 10

Go further 12

Support, equality and diversity 14

Professional standards 17

Parents and carers 18

Stay in education longer 19

Glossary 21

Which level? 23

Course progression 24

Plan your route 26

Apprenticeships 27

Higher education 28

International 29

How to apply 31

Tuition fees 32

Financial Support 33

How to get in touch 34

Contents

DisclaimerThe courses described in our prospectus are those expected to be on offer during the 2013–2014 academic year. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this prospectus. Reading College reserves the right, however, to introduce changes including the addition, withdrawal or restructuring of courses. It is important to note that places on courses are subject to availability, and that the courses themselves may be subject to a viable number of students enrolling. The contents of this prospectus therefore do not form a contractual obligation on Reading College to provide any courses described in it.

A-levels 36

Access 48

Apprenticeships 56

Art, Graphics and Fashion 64

Business, Finance and Professional Studies 72

Care, Childcare and Health 80

Catering and Hospitality 86

Computing and IT 92

Construction and the Built Environment 96

Engineering 102

English and Maths 108

Foundation Learning and Preparation for Work 114

Hairdressing and Therapies 120

Motor Vehicle 128

Music, Media and Performing Arts 132

Plumbing, Gas and Heating 140

Post-16 Centre at Reading Girls’ School 144

Public Services 150

Science 154

Sport 158

Travel and Tourism 162Cou

rses

Full-time Course and Apprenticeship Guide 2013–14 reading-college.ac.uk [email protected] 0800 371 434PB 1

2

When you look through this prospectus, you will see the wide range of vocational and academic courses on offer, from entry to degree level. For us, student progression is key.

Students who want to progress to university will be supported and given expert advice when applying to UCAS. Students who want to head directly into employment or into an apprenticeship have access to our Employment and Careers team and the job finding service provided by recruitment agency Reed, who are based in the College.

Our students develop learning skills, which will help them to fulfil their potential in their course, and employability skills which will give them the edge when they leave.

We’ve created a friendly and purposeful atmosphere in the College to ensure that students work hard, but also enjoy their time with us.

If you would like to know more, come along to an open evening, have a look on the website or ask to come in for a meeting. We will be very pleased to see you.

Best wishes

Lesley Donoghue Principal

WelcomeIn our fast changing and competitive world, we know that students need to do more than just gain a qualification to achieve their aspirations. At Reading College, we do our best to ensure that our students go further.

reading-college.ac.uk [email protected] 0800 371 434 3

This is the reason to choose us as the place to carry on learning and gain your qualifications. Everything you do at college is geared towards making sure your knowledge and skills are relevant for the future you want.

We will make sure that you have the support you need to achieve. We will give you the training and skills that make you as valuable as possible to a potential employer. We’ll encourage the thinking and attitude that gives you the edge.

We do this by bringing the world of work, careers and real life directly into our teaching, your learning and our facilities.

This is what makes Reading College different:Our teaching is industry relevant and based on career-specific knowledge

Your learning benefits from new innovations and an individualised approach

Our facilities are the same as you’d use in the workplace

You’ll enjoy yourself here too.

At Reading College you really can be yourself. You’ll find a course that matches your interests and aims, you’ll be treated like an adult and gain independence, which is something our students really like about this college.

Teaching at Reading CollegeWe’re fortunate to have an exceptional teaching team at Reading College – 92% of our students say that their teachers’ knowledge is excellent or good.

What makes our teachers so good at what they do?Firstly, they are passionate about teaching and their subject.

Secondly, most of them have had successful careers in the areas they now teach.

With proven industry experience, our teachers know exactly what it’s like to work in their sector. They know all about the career you want and how to get into them, because they’ve done those jobs themselves.

Professional musicians, senior designers, top-name salon stylists, construction technicians…if you want to be taught by people like this, study at Reading College. It gets the right results.

In 2012, we had a 98% pass rate for A-levels and a 92% achievement rate for our extended diplomas.

Why Reading College?We will take you further in your career.

Full-time Course and Apprenticeship Guide 2013–144

Why Reading College?

5

Learning environment

The Salon at Reading CollegeWith four state-of-the-art hair salons and four beauty treatment rooms, The Salon is an industry standard, commercial hairdressing and beauty therapies salon, giving you the best environment to train in and provide treatments to paying customers.

Our well-equipped, industry standard teaching areas provide a realistic working environment in which to develop your skills for your specific sector and career path.

Digital Media ZoneThe latest technology is available to students on art, design, music and media courses. Media facilities include large photographic and moving image studios, Apple Mac digital manipulation computer suites, traditional darkroom facilities and professional camera and lighting equipment. Our media courses provide TV and video resources and editing facilities that support student film productions.

The Kitchen at Reading CollegeThe modern facilities and equipment in The Kitchen provides catering students with the opportunity to prepare for future employment by training in a commercial kitchen environment and providing a first-class service to paying customers.

Full-time Course and Apprenticeship Guide 2013–14 reading-college.ac.uk [email protected] 0800 371 4346 7

Music and media Alongside our live performance space, we have five band rehearsal rooms, fully equipped with PA systems, drum kits, guitar and bass amps, keyboards and DJ rigs and three digital Pro Tools recording studios. Additional facilities include Apple Mac computer labs and a fully equipped TV studio with ‘green screen’ capabilities.

Performing arts spacesWe have a fully equipped theatre space with lighting rig, full range sound system, projection facilities and a dance studio with mirrored walls and ballet bars. Both rooms have professional sprung dance floors.

Blast 1386You can learn and develop your broadcasting skills via our radio station Blast 1386. It is one of the few live stations which allows you to gain experience of running and working in a full-time radio environment as well as enabling you to showcase your presenting talents.


SportsWe have a partnership agreement with Rivermead Leisure Complex, giving students access to its excellent facilities including sports hall, astro turf, dance studios and cardio, free weight and kinesis gyms. We also work with Reading Rockets to provide basketball opportunities to students. The Basketball Academy helps bridge the gap for players wanting to balance their education with a high level of performance in the sport.

Visual arts studiosOur art and design studios provide specialist space for developing your creative skills including ceramics, wood and metal, printmaking, fashion, textiles and photography.

Technology centre and construction training The technology centre includes mechanical engineering workshops, an electrical lab and IT facilities running the latest CAB and engineering software. It also houses MOT standard motor vehicle workshops. Our construction workshops are fully equipped for you to learn the practical skills for a career in bricklaying, plastering, plumbing, gas installation, heating and ventilation, painting and decorating or wood trades. The Gas and Energy Centre in Wokingham is a purpose built site for the training and assessment of people working in the plumbing and heating sector.


IT resourcesThere are PCs available to students throughout the college. Every classroom has a dedicated PC and digital projector, and most also equipped with a smart board.

The LibraryYou will have access to electronic resources, databases, books, newspapers, CDs and DVDs. the library staff will help you locate information, understand referencing and use our electronic databases. There are study spaces with access to PCs for individual or group work. Scanning, printing and photocopying facilities are also available.

The Refectory, Cafe 50, AsprettoHot and cold food is available throughout the day from our food outlets, with hot meals available daily at lunchtimes. There are also vending machines for snacks and hot and cold drinks.


Students’ UnionThe Students’ Union (SU) is a student led organisation which aims to provide support, advice and guidance to the whole student population, alongside organising plenty of extracurricular activities. Importantly the SU provides you with a platform to have your say and help improve the college experience. Once you have enrolled, you automatically become a member of the SU.

The SU executive committee is voted for by students in annual elections, so you will have the opportunity to put yourself forward for a post such as President, Entertainment Officer or Sports, Clubs and Societies Officer.

Make it YOUR college experience

Student RepsAnother way to get involved with shaping the college is to volunteer to become a Student Rep. Each tutor group has a spokesperson who gathers their fellow students’ opinions on what is and isn’t working and supports the SU to make improvements.

Get competitiveStudents from across the College have the opportunity to take part in events, both locally and nationally. Our students have demonstrated their trade expertise at WorldSkills and gone on to successfully represent Team GB in the final.

Volunteering and fundraising Our students have always been keen fundraisers, planning and holding events such as hair and beauty fashion shows, cake sales and taking part in RAG Week to raise money for local charities. We also work with a number of volunteering organisations to enable students who wish to contribute to the local community. Many find voluntary work worthwhile in their personal development as well as helping build a strong CV.

Studying is just part of the story at college. We want all of our students to feel at home and part of our College community.

The Students’ Union is here to get students involved in college life and make sure their opinions are heard. We will be organising lots of great events, activities, clubs and societies that you can all be a part of. I hope you all enjoy your time here at Reading College!

Jade Bacon, RCSU President

“ “


Make it YOUR college experience

11

Go furtherBy the time you leave Reading College, we want you to not only successfully pass your course, but also have the employability skills, confidence and motivation to get ahead in the workplace or higher education.

Alongside a thriving enrichment programme, we have expert employment and careers services, which can help you find the right course, work experience and ultimately the right job in your chosen career.

The Employment and Careers Team We offer all Reading College students impartial advice and guidance on further study and employment. Our team of qualified career advisers will talk through the options available and help you with your career planning.

Throughout the year, the Employment and Careers team provides careers workshops, one-to-one appointments with an adviser and a drop-in service to answer your questions about the future, whether this is going to university, taking a gap year, finding a job or applying for an apprenticeship.

The College’s Employment Shop advertises vacancies from the local area for students that want a part-time or full-time job while they study. Advisers are also on hand to help with all aspects of job hunting, including CVs, application forms, covering letters and interview tips.

During your studies, you can also move your career forward by joining our work experience scheme. We work closely with hundreds of local businesses to equip students with employability skills and give them the edge in the job market. As a part of the scheme, the team will help you to find a placement and provide you with support to get the most out of your time on placement.

Reed Jobfinder ServiceBased at Reading College, recruitment professionals from Reed source suitable jobs with local employers that are ring-fenced for our full-time students to apply for. This bespoke service also includes individual coaching to help our students showcase their talents and shine in the application and interview process.

Where our students went in 2011

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Continued to study at Reading College

39% Further education at another college

4%

Higher education20%

Employment or apprenticeship20%

Other e.g. gap year or voluntary work3%

Unknown11%

Unemployed 4%


The Edge enrichment and tutorial programme is based around three themes that our students have told us are important to them:

building up vital skills, aptitudes and gaining key business experience to help get ahead in the competitive jobs market

keeping healthy, active and safe, both in person and online

focusing on equality and diversity, by exploring different cultures and beliefs that make up our diverse world.

Throughout the year, The Edge runs a series of exciting tutorials, workshops, activities, programmes and themed awareness weeks.

Functional SkillsEnglish, Maths and IT are functional skills which are essential to your studies, work and life. They form the foundations of all levels of study and are looked for by employers when recruiting or promoting staff. With these functional skills you will increase your earnings potential and job progression.

At Reading College, no matter what level you are working at in English, Maths and IT, we will support you. Functional skills are embedded into every course and are relevant to your area of study and the industry you want to work in.

If you need extra support, we will provide it by helping you study for a functional skills qualification or GCSE alongside your course. We will look at your individual learning needs during your induction to the College.


Support, equality and diversity

Be safe, feel secureReading College is committed to safeguarding. This means we provide you with an environment where you feel healthy, safe and protected from bullying and harassment. This is a big priority at the College and we have a dedicated Safeguarding team who you can speak to at any time. You can view our Safeguarding policy on our website.

CounsellingWe are a diverse college with students from many different backgrounds. We understand that life sometimes brings different pressures and stresses. Counselling is available if you want to talk to someone in confidence about your situation.

Employment and career adviceFor all the advice you need about your career choices and study options before, during and after your course, speak to our friendly Employment and Careers Team. Call 0800 371 434 or email [email protected]

English and maths You may want to brush up your English or maths skills to give you more confidence for learning or work. We offer the widest range of courses in Berkshire. For more information, see page 110.

Faith support The Faith Support Team exists for all staff and students in the College and of all faiths. You can explore different faiths, find information about local places of worship, faith communities and religious events and use the multi-faith quiet room.

Progress reportsYou will get an individual learning plan to track and review your progress. Parents and carers are also always welcome to speak to tutors or curriculum managers about your progress. More information for parents can be found on page 18.

It’s essential that everyone is fully supported and respected while studying at Reading College. We celebrate equality and diversity and have created a college community where everyone can feel like they belong.


Study supportAll full-time students undertake an initial and diagnostic assessment in literacy and numeracy. This ensures you study at the right level, and it identifies possible support areas too. Extra help may be available for:

• spelling, punctuation, effective reading, essay writing and vocabulary building

• basic maths, arithmetic, decimals, percentages, graphs, data handling, geometry, trigonometry and algebra

• organising work, planning assignments, note-taking and examination techniques

Cross College Progression Workers may be available to support you in class or on a one-to-one basis.

Students with additional support needsReading College offers excellent support to all students, but we also provide a range of support for learners with learning difficulties, disabilities, medical support or language support needs.

This includes support for deaf students/those with hearing impairment, students with mobility difficulties, mental health difficulties and medical conditions such as epilepsy and specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia.

We are always available so please contact us by email, [email protected] if you would like to discuss any support needs.

Tutorial supportAs a full-time student, you will be assigned a personal tutor who will help you with any issues you may have, and help you to focus on your academic progress.

Equality and diversityAt Reading College, we belong to - and serve - an incredibly varied, diverse community.

This diversity is reflected in the people who come to our College which is why we are committed to providing a safe learning environment for all of our students.

Here is our equality and diversity statement:

To read more on equality and diversity at Reading College, please see the Equality and Diversity Policy on our website, reading-college.ac.uk

“We aim to create and maintain an inclusive working and learning environment that respects and celebrates difference, where everyone can participate fully, give their best and achieve their full potential. We actively promote equality of opportunity and freedom from discrimination on all grounds including race, disability, gender, gender reassignment, age, nationality, sexual orientation, religion or belief, or socio-economic status or background.”


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Living and learning from the Reading College valuesAt Reading College you will prepare to progress successfully into employment. We require you to demonstrate the same high professional habits, behaviours and attitudes that will be expected of you in the workplace so you leave college employable and work ready.

The Reading College Professional Standards are based on the College values of RESPECT, INNOVATE and INSPIRE that we ask students and staff to commit to on joining the College.

Reading College professional standards in action behaviour• attending all lessons and meetings on time

• listening to the views of fellow students and teachers

• accepting and valuing different beliefs, backgrounds and lifestyle choices

• ensuring that everyone in the community feels safe and welcome by - observing the Student Code of Conduct

- conducting yourself calmly, speaking quietly and using appropriate language- challenging those who do not show respect to others or the college environment

Behaviour that encourages• working collaboratively to achieve results and generate new ideas

• questioning assumptions and challenging the status quo, learning from mistakes

• embracing new technologies and being receptive to new ideas

behaviour• motivating others to achieve their goals

• striving for excellence in everything you do through effort, commitment and persistence

• courage to overcome personal difficulties

• being a good ambassador for the College

Professional standards

RESPECTFUL

INNOVATION

INSPIRATIONAL


Parents’ and carers’Our priority is to support them to achieve the right qualification and career path of their choice. We run regular events to help inform you about the options open to your son or daughter:

• Regular parent and carer consultations – to discuss any aspect of college life with us and other parents

• Termly open evenings – to look at course options and meet subject tutors

• UCAS information evenings – to discuss higher education options, university application processes and other matters such as tuition fees

• Regular parent and carer evenings – to discuss your son or daughter’s progress

We know that you’ll have questions about the College and we’re very happy to talk to you at any time – please feel free to contact us on 0800 371 434.

As a parent or carer, you want your son, daughter or dependant to make the right choice for their future.


With many different pathways to choose from, it can be a confusing time to know what is right for you.

As this prospectus and our website will show you, Reading College offers a wide range of courses and ways to learn.

We also provide free and impartial advice to help you make the decision that is right for you.

Staying in education for longer

This government decision was made because staying in learning greatly improves your future prospects, success and earnings potential in your chosen career.

After GCSEs, students will have the following options available to choose from:

• stay in full-time education at school or college

• begin an apprenticeship

• study part-time if they are employed, self-employed or volunteer for more than 20 hours a week

From September 2013, every young person in the country will have to stay in education until the end of the academic year in which they turn 17.


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GlossaryTo help you choose the right course, here is some terminology which you might come across in the prospectus or online.

We hope it makes everything clear, but if you have any questions please call our Customer Services team on 0800 371 434. You can also email [email protected] or just drop into the College.

A-level – ‘advanced level’ qualification, two years long and made of two parts: AS-level (year 1) and A2 (year 2). A-levels use traditional study skills, i.e. classroom study with coursework and exams.

AS-level – a fully recognised qualification, worth 50% of an A-Level.

access course – for students over 19 who want to go to university but have been out of full-time education for at least two years.

apprenticeship – a programme of work and study. Apprentices work for (and get paid by) an employer and go to college, typically on day release, to train for a qualification.

BTEC – vocational qualifications awarded by the Business and Technology Education Council at Level 2 or 3 teaching the skills that employers value.

ESOL – English for Speakers of Other Languages. These courses are for people who do not speak English as their first language but need to learn it.

FE – further education, this is for people aged 16+.

foundation learning – a programme which delivers introductory learning in a chosen field so students can move from awards and diplomas to higher-level qualifications.

foundation degree – academic study with a work-based element, equivalent to the first two years of an honours degree. Students can do an additional year of study and convert it to an honours degree.

full-time study – this around 15 hours a week, plus homework/extra study.

functional skills – the core maths, English and ICT skills that people need to be able to learn and do their job.

GCSE – General Certificate of Secondary Education. Students take these at the end of secondary education (14-16 years). Grades A*- C are Level 2, grades D - G are Level 1. Some students aged over 16 take GCSE English and maths alongside other qualifications.

HE – higher education. These qualifications are accredited and awarded by either a university, e.g. foundation degree, or by Edexcel, e.g. HNC or HND.

HNC – Higher National Certificate. A two-year, part-time course which teaches skills for specific jobs/careers, and can provide progression towards an honours degree.

HND – Higher National Diploma. A two-year course which teaches skills for specific jobs/careers, and can provide progression towards an honours degree.

ICT – Information and Communications Technology (computer software, information systems, programming, telecoms etc).

NVQ – National Vocational Qualification. You learn skills for work through practical tasks and training that’s specific to a particular job.

vocational training – work-related study and training which prepares you for a career, occupation or trade.


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Which level?

Qualification title This qualification is equivalent to

Entry Level Certificates Not applicable

Entry Level Awards

Entry Level Diplomas (vocational component of Foundation Learning)

Level 1 Certificates, Awards and Diplomas (vocational component of Foundation Learning)

GCSE (D – G)

Level 2 Certificate 1 GCSE (A*–C)

Level 2 Extended Certificate 4 GCSEs (A*–C)

Level 2 Diploma 4 GCSEs (A*–C)

A and AS-levels

Level 3 Certificate 1 GCE AS-level

Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma 1 GCE A-level

Level 3 Diploma 2 GCE A-levels

Level 3 Extended Diploma 3 GCE A-levels

Higher National Certificate (HNC) Intermediate level qualifications

Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) Intermediate level qualifications

Higher National Diploma (HND) Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE)

Foundation Degree (FdSC/FdA) Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE)

Level

3

Level

2

Level

1

EntryLevel

Level

5

Level

4

For course entry requirements, please see our course descriptions in this prospectus or visit our website reading-college.ac.uk

Our courses are available across different levels – Entry Level, Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Level 4 and Level 5.Use the descriptions and table below to learn about levels and see which one is right for you.


Course progressionOur courses are designed to give you the opportunity to progress from your starting point through to higher levels of learning.

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Course Entry Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 Level 5

A-levels

Access

Administration

Apprenticeships

Art, Design and Fashion

Bricklaying

Business and Finance

Care/Health and Social Care

Carpentry and Joinery

Catering and Hospitality

Childcare

Computing and IT

Construction and the Built Environment

EFL and ESOL

Engineering

English and Maths

Hair and Therapies

Motor Vehicle

Music, Media and Performing Arts

Painting and Decorating

Plastering

Plumbing, Gas and Heating

Public Services

Science

Sport

Teacher Training

Travel and Tourism


Plan your route

Qualification Level

AdvancedApprenticeship

HigherApprenticeship

Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship route

A-levels and Access to

Higher Education

GCSEs

GCSEs atschool

GCSEsat school

General route

1

2

3

4

Entry

Emp

loyment

Employment

Higher National Certificate/

Level 4 Diploma

Level 3 Diploma/NVQ

Level 2 Diploma/NVQ

Level 1 Diploma/NVQ

Entry Level courses

Vocational route

Foundation Degree/Higher National

Diploma

Honours Degree Honours Degree

Foundation Degree/Higher National

Diploma5

6

Higher National Certificate

Routes to higher education and employment.

There are a variety of full-time and part-time routes to progress to a degree and other professional qualifications. As well as the traditional academic route of A-levels, there are also practical vocational courses, Access to Higher Education courses and apprenticeships that will take you to higher levels of skills and knowledge. No matter how you prefer to learn, we can help you find the best way to develop your talents.

There are also a number of ways to head into employment, including working and studying at the same time through an apprenticeship.

Full-time Course and Apprenticeship Guide 2013–14 reading-college.ac.uk [email protected] 0800 371 43426 27Full-time Course and Apprenticeship Guide 2013–1426

ApprenticeshipsBeing an apprentice allows you to learn on the job, build up knowledge and skills, gain a nationally recognised qualification and earn money – all at the same time.

We are one of the leading providers of apprenticeships in the region, currently training over 300 apprentices with 150 local employers. We are looking to double this number over the next two years.

An apprenticeship is a nationally recognised programme and is ideal for people who want to get straight into the world of work.

Apprentices are employed by their company and receive an average wage of £170 a week for the duration of the programme. Apprentices spend one or two days a week learning at College, including extra functional skills in English, Maths and ICT.

More details on our apprenticeships can be found on page 56.

Full-time Course and Apprenticeship Guide 2013–14 reading-college.ac.uk [email protected] 0800 371 43426 27reading-college.ac.uk [email protected] 0800 371 434 27

Higher education

One of the biggest benefits of choosing college over university is affordability: you can live at home and save thousands of pounds on course fees and accommodation costs.

Whether you decide to progress on from one of our courses or want to gain a new qualification as part of your professional development, by studying with us, you will benefit from small class sizes, excellent resources, tutors with industry experience and all the support you need to succeed.

Once you have completed your foundation degree, HND, or HNC, you will also have the option to progress to the final year of a full honours degree.

The following courses we offer are validated by Oxford Brookes or Edexcel:

With Reading College, you can now study for a degree without having to go to university.

Foundation Degree (Arts) Business and Enterprise

Foundation Degree (Arts) Creative Arts and Design Practice

Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

Higher National Diploma Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Higher National Diploma Computer and Systems Development

Higher National Diploma Music (Electronic Music)

Higher National Certificate Construction

Higher National Certificate Electrical and Electronic Engineering

HNC Mechanical Engineering


International

A-levelsIf you are aged 16 and over, you can apply for a place to study A-levels in our Sixth Form Centre. A-levels are the most popular entry route to university study in the UK. In the last year, we had a 100% pass rate from our A-level students in 11 subjects.

Vocational QualificationsMany international students choose to study a vocational course and benefit from preparing for employment in a particular industry. With a BTEC Level 3 Diploma, you can progress onto university in the UK or into a professional career.

English as a Foreign LanguageStudying English at Reading College is one of the best investments you can make for your future. Our courses will help you prepare for Cambridge ESOL exams, academic study and for working and socialising in an English speaking environment.

Progression on to university Many of our international students have successfully entered UK universities to study a wide range of degrees including Accounting, Psychology, Business and Midwifery. We provide expert advice and guidance to support students with their university applications.

SupportYou will have a full induction on arrival to help you adjust to life as a student in Reading. As well as the varied social calendar on offer, we run special events to bring our international students together. Throughout your studies you will have regular tutorials with your tutors. We have good links with top universities and will be able to advise you on the best pathway for you.

Our International team are there to help should you have any questions, need help finding accommodation or have issues relating to your welfare or visa.

Living in Reading Reading is one of the most culturally diverse towns in south east England. The town centre offers excellent shopping and leisure facilities. There is also plenty of arts and entertainment to enjoy including bars, restaurants, libraries, theatres, cinema and parks. For sports fans there is the Madejski Stadium, home to Reading Football Club and the London Irish Rugby Club.

Reading is easy to travel to and is ideally located to explore the rest of the country. You can reach London Paddington by train in just 25 minutes and London Heathrow in 50 minutes.

We look forward to receiving your application form. Apply as soon as you can as our courses fill up fast and we don’t want you to miss out on your first choice.

We have a long tradition of teaching students from all over the world. There are approximately 600 students from a number of different countries studying with on a wide range of courses. You will be part of a diverse community in a friendly and supportive college.



How to applyInformation, advice and guidance If you are not sure which course to apply for, or have not gained the grades you need, we offer impartial advice and guidance. Please call 0800 371 434 and ask to speak to a member of our Employment and Careers Team.

OnlineYou can apply online – please visit reading-college.ac.uk

PostDetach and complete the application form at the back of this prospectus and return it to us.

For full-time foundation degree programmes, please apply direct to UCAS (www.ucas.com).

Your interviewWe interview all our full-time applications, as we want to get to know you and hear why you want to start the course. It also gives you the chance to ask any further questions about the course and make sure it is the right one for you.

It is important that you try and attend the interview date you are given. However, if you are unable to attend, please contact the Admissions Team on 0800 371 434 or email [email protected]


Tuition feesThe tuition fees for a full-time course depend on your age and situation. If you have any questions you can speak to an Admissions Adviser on 0800 371 434.

16 – 18If you are a UK or EU citizen and under 19 at the start of the academic year (1st September 2013), you do not pay tuition or exams fees. On some courses there may be additional costs for materials, uniforms or trips, which must be paid when you enrol. You will be given full details about these costs when you apply for your course.

19+If you are over 19 and not in receipt of benefits, you will need to pay the full course tuition fees, as well as course materials, uniforms, trips and exam fees. If you are over 24, you can apply for a 24+ loan, see page 33 for details.

19 – 23 Level 1 entitlement If you are studying on a course at Entry level or Level 1, you may not need to pay tuition fees if you have committed to progress on to a Level 2 course.

19 – 23 Level 2 entitlement If you have not yet gained a full Level 2 qualification (e.g. five GCSEs at A*- C, NVQ Level 2 or Level 2 diploma), you could study without paying tuition fees. Other course costs and exam fees are still applicable. Please contact us for more details.

19 – 24 Level 3 entitlement If you have not yet gained a full Level 3 qualification (e.g. two A-levels or a Level 3 qualification), you could study without paying tuition fees. Other course costs and exam fees are still applicable. Please contact us for more details.

Higher education coursesFoundation degrees, HNDs, HNCs and other degree courses carry the statutory higher education tuition fees.

Unemployed and seeking workYou may be able to study for free on a range of courses if you receive income based benefits and are actively looking for work.

If you are unemployed or facing redundancy, you also have the opportunity to join our Get that Job programme. It has helped many people gain new skills to get them back into the workplace. Please contact us for more details.

InternationalIf you are not a UK or EU citizen you will be required to pay international student fees for all funded courses. Please call +44 (0) 118 955 4300 or email [email protected] for more details.

How to payAll tuition, exam fees (where applicable) and course costs must be paid when you enrol. Payment can be made by cash, cheque, debit or credit card. We offer a Direct Debit instalment plan if your course costs more than £150. Please contact us for more details.

Add5In addition to paying your course fees, you can make a big difference to the overall student experience at College by participating in the Add5 programme; Add5 adds an optional £5 to your course fees at enrolment.

A panel of students and staff will decide how best to use the Add5 fund. This could include improvements to the Students’ Union facilities, student trips or participation in external events or the purchase of specialist equipment. There is no obligation to participate in Add5, you simply need to ask the Admissions Adviser to remove the donation at enrolment.


24+ loans – New for 2013If you are over 24 and studying on a Level 3 course or apprenticeship, you are eligible to apply for a loan to cover your tuition fees. The loan is not means tested or subject to credit checks and you start repaying it when you earn over £21,000. Loans are administered by the Student Loans Company and you can start applying from April 2013.

24+ loans for Access to Higher Education courses are automatically cleared if you go on to complete a higher education course with support of a student loan.

TravelAll students aged 16-18 can get subsidised travel on Reading Buses, no matter what your household income is. If your household income is less than £30,000 and your travel is not funded from an alternative source, you can apply for up to £720 towards your travel costs (based on where you live).

Course cost grantGet 50% towards your essential course costs if your household income is less than £20,817.

Accommodation grant You can apply for this grant if Reading College is your closest learning provider offering your chosen course but travel costs make it too expensive to attend. This is for students with a household income of less than £20,817.

Care to Learn This fund supports parents aged 16-19 who need assistance with childcare costs. The scheme currently pays £160 a week while you study. For more details and to apply, visit www.direct.gov.uk/caretolearn or call 0800 121 8989.

19+We have a financial support scheme to assist adult students with the cost of learning at college. If your household income is less than £20,817 we can help with travel, accommodation, childcare and course costs.

To find out more about the financial support available, please call 0800 371 434.

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How to get in touchThere are a number of ways to contact us:Phone: 0800 371 434 (available 08.30am-4.30pm)

+44 (0) 118 955 4300 from outside the UK

Email: [email protected]

Visit: Drop in to speak to one of our advisers about our courses, fees, financial support and help with your application.

Monday, Wednesday or Friday: 8.30am - 4.30pm

Tuesday or Thursday: 8.30am - 6.30pm (4.30pm during holidays)

Kings Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 4HJ

You can also come to one of our open events to find out what we have to offer, tour the campus and talk to staff about your options:

Open EveningsWednesday 7 November 2012 6-8.30pm

Wednesday 6 February 2013 6-8.30pm

Wednesday 15 May 2013 6-8.30pm

Summer advice days Thursday 15 August 2013 11am-7pm

Thursday 22 August 2013 11am-7pm


A B C D E F G

Reading College Campus, Kings Road

A B C D E F G


At Reading College, there is extensive support to help you with decision-making at this important time. All students benefit from having a personal tutor who can offer advice on applying to university or entering employment.

Many of our subject lecturers are external examiners or moderators in their A-level subjects and are well-placed to prepare you for coursework and exams. All students have access to a range of resources, activities, workshops, website links and videos through our college virtual learning environment, Moodle. This resource is valuable in your independent learning.

To help with your studies and later with finding employment, you will also work towards additional qualifications. NCFE Learn to Work and Job Search qualifications will help you develop study skills to apply to your learning and gain a competitive advantage when searching for jobs and in interviews.

To enhance your learning experience, an extensive enrichment programme is available. Students are given plenty of opportunities to take part in a wide range of activities and curriculum visits to increase their subject knowledge and personal development.

The Sixth Form Centre provides high quality teaching and learning which results in outstanding achievement, allowing students to progress on to higher education and on to a professional career. In 2012, the majority of our students were successful at getting into their preferred university. On offer is a wide choice of subject areas, including business and social sciences. Some students also choose to study an additional qualification to give them the edge when applying to university. The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is well regarded by universities as it helps develop your research, independent learning and presentation skills. It also carries the same number of university points as an AS-level.

A-levels

Our students have gone on to:

Accounting, IT and Engineering apprenticeshipsAnglia Ruskin UniversityBangor UniversityBath Spa UniversityBirmingham City UniversityBournemouth UniversityBrighton UniversityBrunel UniversityBuckinghamshire UniversityCardiff UniversityDe Montfort UniversityEast London UniversityGoldsmiths, University of LondonHertfordshire University

Imperial College LondonKent UniversityKing’s College LondonLeicester UniversityLiverpool UniversityLondon Metropolitan UniversityLondon South Bank UniversityManchester Metropolitan UniversityMiddlesex UniversityOxford Brookes UniversityPlymouth UniversityPortsmouth UniversityQueen Mary, University of LondonReading UniversityRoehampton University

Royal Holloway UniversitySouthampton UniversitySouthampton SolentSurrey UniversitySussex UniversityUniversity of the West of England Westminster UniversityWinchester UniversityUniversity College LondonUniversity of EssexUniversity of the Arts LondonUniversity of WarwickUniversity of West London


A-levels

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Accounting A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A47R

This course will provide you with an understanding of company accounts, accounting systems and the effects of economic, legal and technological changes on accounting. You will learn how to produce and interpret financial documents. These accounting skills are useful in a number of jobs and careers and this course provides an ideal background for someone planning a career in accountancy.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and maths. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress into an accounting apprenticeship or work as an accountant within a business or consider further study with an accounting or business-related foundation degree or degree course.

Archaeology A-level Level 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A45R

Archaeology focuses on studying mankind’s past through the investigation of material remains. By studying where people lived, what they ate, what they wore and even how they died, you can put together a picture of societies throughout the ages. There are so many skills involved that you’ll find archaeology a fascinating area of study. You will study different aspects of ancient cultures including art, technology, geography, history, religious studies and classical civilisation.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including a B grade in English Language. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou can progress onto higher education to study a degree course in archaeology, anthropology, classics, history or social science. After graduating you can seek employment as a Project Archaeologist, Museum or Gallery Curator, Archivist or Heritage Manager. Suitable employers include the British Council for Archaeology or the National Trust. Alternatively you could seek employment with local government or within higher education as lecturer.

38 Full-time Course and Apprenticeship Guide 2013–14

Business Studies A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A06R

This course will provide you with a good overview of business as a whole, with a particular focus on enterprise. You will also learn about four business areas: marketing, finance, people management and operations. Your study will also involve strategic thinking around what influences business and setting up a small business. You will study operational aspects of a business such as human resources, marketing, finance and accounting. You will develop analytical and critical skills as well as a creative approach to problem solving.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and maths. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress onto your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress on to further study of a business-related subject at higher education level or alternatively enter the employment market. Degree courses can include business and management, business and finance or business and accounting. You could enter employment in finance, human resources and marketing, in roles such as Human Resources Officer, Marketing Executive, Retail Banker or Management Consultant.

Biology A-level Level 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A03R

If you want to learn more about biology then this A-level, combining theoretical and practical work, will increase your understanding. It covers a range of topics, including cells and molecules, and develops your practical and research skills. You will also learn theories on the contribution of science to the economy and society. You will be taught in our well-equipped laboratories and the course includes a residential field trip.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grades A*- C including a minimum grade B in biology/additional science or maths and a grade C in English Language. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress onto your second year of study.

ProgressionThis course can lead to future study in the areas of veterinary and medical studies, biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences, general biological, plant, animal and environmental sciences.

Vocational Science RouteAlternatively, if you wish to study more practical, applied science, you can apply to study either the BTEC Level 2 or Level 3 Applied Science Diplomas. Both of these courses incorporate units of study covering physics, biology and chemistry. See pages 158-159 for details.


A-levels

Felicity Syfret AS-levels – English Literature and English Language, History, Sociology and Philosophy

I learnt the hard way that education is the key to success, after leaving school at 16 and trying for two years to get a job. I realised that the best thing I could do was get my A-levels and possibly a degree.

I’m really glad that I chose to study at Reading College. It has a good range of subjects and excellent teachers who are passionate about their subjects. As well as being in a convenient location, the College has a pleasant atmosphere – studious, but relaxed.

Being at Reading College has made me realise that I have a lot of options open to me, so now I’m considering lots of careers from law to travel writing!

Chemistry A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A04R

Studying Chemistry can help you understand the world around you and the different substances in it. You will study in our specialist laboratories and develop a greater understanding of the general principles of chemistry. Our experienced staff will increase your understanding of chemical elements and compounds. An A-level in Chemistry is essential for most healthcare-related or science-based degree courses.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including a minimum grade B in maths and a minimum grade C in chemistry or additional science and English Language. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress on to a science-based degree such as biochemistry, chemistry, microbiology or consider a health-related profession.

Vocational Science RouteAlternatively, if you wish to study more practical, applied science, you can apply to study either the BTEC Level 2 or Level 3 Applied Science Diplomas. Both of these courses incorporate units of study covering Physics, Biology and Chemistry. See pages 156-157 for details.

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Economics A-level Level 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A37R

Economics is the scientific study of choices made by individuals, firms and governments, and the effect these choices have on the economy. Economics is a wide ranging subject which touches on every aspect of industrial and commercial life. As a result, study of economics will broaden your understanding of the business world and encourage you to evaluate some of the consequences of business and government decisions. It is an academic subject which provides a good link between science and arts subjects. It is scientific in its investigative nature and requires good logical and analytical skills together with the ability to produce convincing written argument.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including a B grade in English Language and a C grade in maths. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress on to study economics at university, combining with many other subjects including finance, business, management and accounting. Economics is useful for those intending to enter the business or commercial world since it is included as a core subject in the examinations of all the professional bodies.

Drama and Theatre Studies A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A35R

If you are a creative person who would like the opportunity to study a mix of practical and theoretical subjects then the Drama and Theatre Studies A-level is a good option for you. You will be taught in our well-equipped classrooms and performing arts studios which include facilities for acting and theatre production. The College also has good links with local theatre companies who regularly visit and make use of these facilities. This subject package can lead to a wide range of progression opportunities.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language. You are also required to attend an audition. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionThis subject could lead to higher level study in a related subject, or employment. Degree courses include single honours courses in drama, performing arts or a joint honours degree with English. You can also apply directly to a drama school.


A-levels

English Language and Literature A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A07R

You will study literary texts such as plays, novels and poems but the course concentrates more on learning and developing the skills of language analysis. This is further developed by the study of conversations, interviews and speeches and there is a whole new vocabulary of linguistic terminology to become familiar with. You learn to look at language ‘through a microscope’ and to recognise how much social and cultural values underpin everyday language, but you still continue to explore the literary heritage of the past.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including a grade B in English Language. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionThis is a popular course, blending well with many other subjects. The course will improve your writing and analytical skills and teach you to ‘read between the lines’. You would be welcomed on a range of higher education courses including linguistics and language studies.

English Literature A-level Level 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A08R

This course is designed to follow on from your GCSE English literature studies. It provides you with an introduction to the discipline of advanced literary studies and presents opportunities for wider reading and making creative and informed responses to each of the major literary genres of poetry, prose and drama. You will develop your analytical skills through study, evaluation and comparison of literary texts. The course places a premium on reading to encourage enjoyment of literary studies and on extended writing to present an informed personal response.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including a B grade in English Language and Literature. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionEnglish Literature is a well-regarded course, combining well with many other subjects and is welcomed on a range of higher education courses. While at university many English students write for student newspapers and magazines, get involved with student radio or film societies, or volunteer in the community. The combination of skills gained from work experience and extracurricular activities, as well as through study, can help boost your employability.


Government and Politics A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A43R

The course will help you develop a critical awareness of the nature of politics and the relationship between political ideas, institutions and processes. The focus of the course is very much on contemporary UK and global political issues. You are expected to keep up with the news throughout the course. The exam board require up to date examples, so if there was an important by-election in April and the exam is in May, they would expect it to feature in your exam answer if relevant.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and maths. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress onto your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could go on to study politics and/or international relations at university. The course offers key employability skills such as a critical and analytical mind, the ability to effectively research and excellent written skills. You might therefore consider employment in a non-governmental organisation (NGO), working in politics such as for the local council or even an MP. The course would also support a career in journalism or law.

Geography A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A11R

This course will help increase your understanding of the world and the people and places within it. You will find out about physical and human geography from our experienced staff. You will learn through a range of enjoyable and interesting activities and areas of study. You will complete a residential field trip in the spring term of your first year. This is a very broad discipline developing a wide range of skills and covers many contemporary issues such as the environment, energy, sustainability and fair trade.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and Maths. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress onto your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress on to higher level study in humanities or a relevant scientific degree such as environmental sciences, or alternatively enter employment. Roles in employment would include working for companies like Thames Water, The Environment Agency or local government as a Cartographer, Environmental Consultant, Transport Planner or Town Planner.


A-levels

History A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A14R

This humanities subject is a good choice if your chosen career will require good written and verbal communication. Apart from increasing your knowledge, this course will help develop your research skills. You will need to read source material, draw out inferences, make connections and argue a case. You will be taught a range of historic areas of study from our experienced staff. The course involves a number of historical trips, including some overseas. We also work in partnership with local charities. Opportunities include teaching English to the families of ex-Gurkhas with SSAFA Forces Help and fundraising for a memorial with The Trooper Potts VC Trust.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including a B grade in English Language. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress on to higher level study including politics, international relations, archaeology and anthropology degree courses, or seek employment in roles such as a researcher or data analyst.

Law A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A17R

This course can help develop your understanding of how laws are made, how the British legal system works and how it affects the individual. You will gain a greater understanding of legal principles and a critical awareness of how the law operates and its role in society. You will learn about a range of legal areas from our experienced staff in our well-equipped classrooms. Studying Law provides you with easily transferable skills for future study and employment.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress to a degree course in law or other subjects such as criminology. It could also help with progression in a number of legal-related careers, including the police force and probation service.


Mathematics A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A18R

To help develop your maths, this course will allow you to develop core skills such as problem-solving and analytical skills. It includes algebra and functions, sequences and series and trigonometry followed by the study of statistics and mechanics. You will be taught in well-equipped classrooms by our experienced staff.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and grade B in maths higher tier. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress to higher level study such as a degree in maths, computing, engineering or the pure sciences, or alternatively seek employment. Technology employers rate A-level Maths as the most desirable subject for potential employees to have. Other roles could include working in banks as a Financial Adviser or Chartered Accountant.

Media Studies A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A20R

This course involves using your analytical skills to investigate many areas of the media. You will study visual aspects, narrative style and the ways in which the world is represented to us. You will also explore the many components of the media and consider topics such as controlling the media. As part of this course students create their own media product. You will be taught in well-equipped classrooms by experienced staff. You will produce your coursework using our state-of-the-art Mac suites.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress to higher level study such as a degree in media, film studies, journalism or English, or seek employment. Employment could be as a Journalist for a magazine or newspaper or working at a radio or TV station. Alternatively you could work in public relations as an Account Executive.


A-levels

Philosophy and Ethics A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A36R

Does God exist? If so, and God is good, then why is there so much suffering in the world? What do humans need to flourish in their lives and be happy? These are the kind of questions you will study. You will examine some of the answers that the great philosophers have given to these questions over the centuries. You will broaden your horizons and develop your powers of reasoning. You will also learn to express your views clearly and logically, both written and spoken. You will develop knowledge and skills that will be highly appreciated by universities and employers.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*-C including English Language. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress to higher level study such as a degree in any humanities or social sciences subject, or seek employment in the social care or health professions, counselling, publishing, journalism, charities or non-governmental organisations, research, teaching or other public services.

Physics A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A22R

A-level Physics gives you a general understanding of this discipline and involves problem solving, experimentation and interpreting data. Areas covered include particle physics, mechanics, materials and waves as well as astrophysics. Your study will involve a combination of practical exercises and theory and will be taught in a well-equipped laboratory by our experienced staff.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including a minimum grade B in maths and a minimum grade C in physics or additional science and English Language. You must study AS Mathematics with this subject. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress to higher level study such as a science, engineering or IT degree, or seek employment in a scientific field.

Vocational Science RouteAlternatively, if you wish to study more practical, applied science, you can apply to study either the BTEC Level 2 or Level 3 Applied Science Diplomas. Both of these courses incorporate units of study covering Physics, Biology and Chemistry. See pages 156-157 for details.


Psychology A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A23R

Are you fascinated by people’s behaviour and interested in understanding what motivates people to do certain things? Psychology involves the study of the mind and behaviour. This A-level is a good introduction to psychology and will give you a broad introduction into the different theories on what affects our behaviour. Your course will also look at the methods used to study human beings and different aspects of human behaviour. Course activities are a combination of practical exercises and theory.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*- C including a B grade in English Language and C in maths. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionYou could progress to further study at a higher level including a degree in psychology. The subject is beneficial to anyone who will be pursuing a career involving contact with people such as nursing, social work, counselling, human resources or teaching.

Sociology A-levelLevel 3 Duration: One year for AS-level and an additional year for A-level Course Code: 2SF ASS A24R

You will study a variety of sociological theories, studies and concepts and will learn how to evaluate these in a critical manner. The focus will tend to be on British society but comparisons will be made with other countries. Your study will involve a combination of practical exercises and theory.

Entry requirementsSix GCSEs grade A*-C including English Language. A minimum of a D grade at AS allows you to progress on to your second year of study.

ProgressionSociology could lead to a variety of jobs or university courses and is a good general qualification which is very well regarded by universities and employers.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2SF BLG A01R

The Extended Project is a free standing qualification that you can take alongside your A2 subjects or to supplement your AS choices. It will either extend from one or more of your study areas or will be from an area of personal interest or activity. It is your opportunity to undertake and get credit for an extended piece of work on something you are really interested in and present it in whatever format you think is appropriate.

The EPQ will set you apart from other people as it demonstrates your willingness to carry out a piece of extended work and demonstrate that you have developed crucial skills for the workplace or further study.

Entry requirementsYou need good organisation skills, an interest in a specific topic and a good standard of written English if you are intending to produce an essay-based project.

ProgressionYou can move on to university where the skills you have developed on the extended project will help you to be very successful on a wide range of courses. Depending on your chosen topic, you will have developed skills, experience and knowledge useful in the workplace.


A-levels

Access

others and developing your learning style. They provide a core foundation for progression and future employability.

An Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised qualification and concentrates on providing sufficient credits to gain a place in higher education. Successful completion of the course will give you at least 60 credits which is the minimum required by The Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) for university entrance.

24+ loans – New for 2013

If you are over 24, you are eligible to apply for a loan to cover your tuition fees. 24+ loans for Access to Higher Education courses are automatically cleared if you go on to complete a higher education course with support of a student loan. See page 33 for more details.

Access to Higher Education courses provides mature students (aged 19+) with a route into higher education if they do not already have the required formal qualifications or have been out of education for more than two years.Access to Higher Education courses at Reading College offer high quality teaching in a friendly and supportive environment. We have an excellent careers team who will support you with your university application. Access lecturers are subject specialists, all qualified to degree or masters level.

As a student on the course you will have the opportunity to stretch yourself intellectually. You will gain knowledge of three subject areas plus develop the core academic skills required for undergraduate study. The academic skills include research skills, discursive writing, working with


Access

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Richie HodgesHumanities – Access to Higher Education

Once I’d completed my A-levels, I headed overseas to teach English. After 18 months I came back to the UK wanting to go to university but didn’t feel like I had the right grades.

I knew I wanted to study history, so chose the humanities course because it covered English and law alongside history. I’ve found all aspects of the course interesting and liked that there was plenty of group work. It was good to engage with people from different backgrounds.

My time on the Access course has really boosted my confidence, improved my writing skills and my ability to lay out an argument.

I have successfully applied and been accepted to study History at the University of Cambridge. I was quite shocked when I collected my results that this has become a reality!

Art and Design – Access to Higher Education Diploma Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 3AF ADG AP0R

On the Art and Design Access pathway, you will gain a broad understanding of the subject area, with a view to building a portfolio which can be used to progress on to higher education. While studying you will have access to excellent facilities including the Digital Media Zone, photography studios and darkroom, ceramics, metal, wood and screen print workshops. The course does have units that cover aspects of literacy and ICT, however if you want to progress onto higher education then a full Level 2 in English and maths is an advantage.

Entry requirementsThis course is normally for mature students (19+) returning to education, although other applicants will be considered on their individual merit. There are no formal entry requirements, however a GCSE grade C or above in English would be beneficial. You will need motivation and commitment. You will be interviewed and present your portfolio – details of what to include are on our website. A satisfactory reference is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the one-year programme will be able to progress on to a higher education degree or diploma that relates to the pathway of study, such as fine art, graphic design, visual communication, illustration, animation, sculpture, ceramics, 3D studies and craft-related courses.

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Business A: Business - Access to Higher Education DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2AF AXG BP0R

On the Business Access pathway you will study business management, law and IT. You will develop an understanding of business decision-making and study areas such as marketing. You will gain knowledge of IT systems and terminologies and an in-depth understanding of law fundamentals and areas such as Contract Law and Employment Law. Your studies will include court visits, debates and case studies.

Entry requirementsStudents must be aged 19 and over. No specific qualifications are asked for, however, a GCSE grade C in English or maths would be beneficial. You will be interviewed and have a numeracy and literacy assessment to check your suitability to study at Level 3. At your interview you will need to demonstrate that you have a realistic career goal in mind and the motivation to achieve. Some degrees require that you have some relevant paid or voluntary work experience. Applicants are strongly advised to check degree entry requirements with prospective universities.

ProgressionStudents have progressed on to higher education to study business studies, travel and tourism, business analysis, business management, business administration, fashion marketing and business management with marketing and economics.

Business B: Accounting - Access to Higher Education Diploma Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2AF AXG MP0R

On the Accounting Access pathway you will study business finance, business management and IT. You will learn the principles of accounting and different types of finance and develop an understanding of IT terminology, networking and systems development.


ProgressionStudents have progressed on to higher education to study business, accounting, marketing, tourism, hospitality or event management.

reading-college.ac.uk [email protected] 0800 371 434

Access

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Education Professions - Access to Higher Education Diploma Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2AF AXG KP0R

On the Education Access pathway you will study biology, education studies, English Language and Literature to coincide with the national curriculum. You will gain a range of learning experiences including analysing historical texts and literary works and conducting practical experiments in biology. A GCSE maths at grade C or above would be beneficial. However, we can offer GCSE maths as a part of this pathway if required. You will need relevant paid or voluntary work experience in the education sector to provide you with the knowledge and experience to draw on.

Entry requirementsStudents must be aged 19 and over. No specific qualifications are asked for on this course, however a GCSE grade C in English and maths is required to progress on to a teaching degree. You will be interviewed and have a numeracy and literacy assessment to check your suitability to study at Level 3. At your interview you will need to demonstrate that you have a realistic career goal in mind and the motivation to achieve. Some degrees require that you have some relevant paid or voluntary work experience. Applicants are strongly advised to check degree entry requirements with prospective universities.

ProgressionStudents will often progress to a teaching degree in either primary or secondary education, or subject degrees such as history or English, with a view to then taking a postgraduate qualification in education.

Health and Social Care Professions - Access to Higher Education Diploma Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2AF AXG DP0R

On the Health and Social Care Access pathway you will study professional healthcare practice, psychological perspectives and human physiology. You will learn about a range of health-related issues such as health promotion and acute and chronic illness and also research cultural and environmental influences on health. You will gain an understanding of the historical context of health and develop this by using psychological, sociological and biological perspectives.

Entry requirementsStudents must be aged 19 and over. No specific qualifications are asked for, however, a GCSE grade C in English or maths would be beneficial. You will be interviewed and have a numeracy and literacy assessment to check your suitability to study at Level 3. At your interview you will need to demonstrate that you have a realistic career goal in mind and the motivation to achieve. You will need relevant paid or voluntary work experience in the care sector. Applicants are strongly advised to check degree entry requirements with prospective universities.

ProgressionStudents have progressed to higher education courses in adult nursing, child health nursing, learning disabilities, mental health, midwifery practice, social work, psychology and forensic science.


Humanities - Access to Higher Education Diploma Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2AF AXG GP0R

On the Humanities Access pathway you will study history, literary and law. While studying history, you will learn about revolutionary Russia and Nazi Germany. Your law studies will look into the essentials of the English legal system. You will be introduced to many great writers such as Shakespeare and Wilfred Owen in your literary studies.


ProgressionStudents will often progress to study history, law, politics, philosophy, journalism and English-based degrees.

Social Science A: Social Work - Access to Higher Education Diploma Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2AF AXG CP0R

The Social Work Access pathway provides a route into a range of degree courses. The pathway will offer a range of relevant progressive and stimulating subjects including sociological perspectives, international relations and communication studies. The subjects will give insight into the social life of human groups and individual and examine the causes and consequences of social change in the modern world.

Entry requirementsStudents must be aged 19 and over. No specific qualifications are asked for, however, a GCSE grade C in English or maths would be beneficial. You will be interviewed and have a numeracy and literacy assessment to check your suitability to study at Level 3. At your interview you will need to demonstrate that you have a realistic career goal in mind and the motivation to achieve. You will need relevant paid or voluntary work experience in the care sector. Applicants are strongly advised to check degree entry requirements with prospective universities.

ProgressionOn completion of this course you can progress to study social work, criminal justice, criminology and law, media, cultural studies, sociology and politics.


Access

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Social Science B: Psychology - Access to Higher Education Diploma Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2AF AXG HP0R

On the Psychology Access pathway you will study psychological perspectives, sociological perspectives and human physiology. You will be introduced to some of the theories regarding human behaviour and experience and will explore some of the explanations psychologists make to understand humans and their interactions with the world. You will also conduct an in-depth investigation of human behaviour. We can offer GCSE maths as a part of this pathway if required.


ProgressionStudents from this pathway have progressed on to higher education to study psychology, deaf studies, counselling, occupational therapy, human services, sociology, religion and theology.

Speakers of Other Languages - Access to Higher Education Diploma [formerly Overseas Academic English]

Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2AF AXG NP0R

This course provides mature students with a route into higher education if they do not have the required formal qualifications or have been out of education for a while. Academic English provides preparation for entry to higher education by helping you to develop your academic written work and your reading, listening and writing skills. You can choose two subjects from our main pathways. The academic English course will support you with your vocabulary for your chosen pathway.


ProgressionCompletion of the programme will allow you to pursue a higher education degree or diploma that relates to the pathway of study.


Science A: Pathway - Access to Higher Education Diploma Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2AF AXG FP0R

On the Science Access pathway you will study chemistry, human physiology and psychological perspectives. You will gain scientific knowledge of a wide range of areas including: the main body system, cell division and genetics, the nervous system, disease and immunity. Your psychology studies will look at human behaviour and let you experience and explore various theories and methods. A GCSE maths at grade C or above would be beneficial. However, we can offer GCSE maths as a part of this pathway if required.


ProgressionStudents from this pathway have progressed on to higher education to study chemistry, biological sciences, cybernetics, zoology, physiotherapy and forensic science.

Science B: Physics Pathway - Access to Higher Education Diploma Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 2AF AXG FP0R

On the Physics Access pathway you will study chemistry, human physiology and physics. AS-level maths is also offered for those candidates with a GCSE grade B. You will gain scientific knowledge of a wide range of areas including the main body system, cell division and genetics, the nervous system, disease and immunity. We can offer GCSE maths as a part of the Access to Higher Education Diploma Science pathway if required.

Entry requirementsStudents must be aged 19 and over. No specific qualifications are asked for, however, a GCSE grade B in English or maths would be beneficial. This would enable you to study AS-level maths if required for your university entrance. You will be interviewed and have a numeracy and literacy assessment to check your suitability to study at Level 3. At your interview you will need to demonstrate that you have a realistic career goal in mind and the motivation to achieve. Some degrees require that you have some relevant paid or voluntary work experience.Applicants are strongly advised to check degree entry requirements with prospective universities.

ProgressionStudents from this pathway have progressed on to higher education to study chemistry and physics.


Access

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Apprenticeships

At Reading College, we offer a wide range of apprenticeships including the following sectors:

Accountancy


Care, Childcare and Health


Computing and IT


Customer Service

Engineering

Hairdressing and Therapies

Logistics

Motor Vehicle


Teaching Assistants

Team Leading

An apprenticeship is a nationally recognised programme allowing people over 16 years old to gain new skills and achieve qualifications while they work and earn a wage.By training at college and in a job, apprentices learn the theory and practical skills needed to succeed in their chosen industry. Apprentices are taught by staff who are specialists in their area and gain extensive industrial, technical and career experience.

There are a number of great reasons to become an apprentice:

• earn a salary

• get paid holidays

• learn through hands-on experience

• gain qualifications

• experience new and different challenges

• learn job-specific skills


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Apprenticeships

Opportunities for apprentices

What is involved in an apprenticeship?Your employer will need to agree to support your apprenticeship training which is delivered in partnership with the college. You will usually spend four days a week in your workplace, though this does depend on your sector. While at work, you will be assessed on your performance in the role.

You will usually spend one day at week at college, where you will attend a taught course which covers modules that are directly related to your job or sector. You will be assessed by assignment or examination. Alongside your course you will learn relevant functional skills, including English and Maths.

What levels of apprenticeships are available at Reading College?Currently we offer three levels:• Apprenticeships – Level 2• Advanced Apprenticeships – Level 3• Higher Apprenticeships - Level 4

Please see page 23 for more details on the different levels.

Who can become an apprentice?Anybody who is over 16 years old and has a job or a job lined up can become an apprentice. If you don’t have an employer we will help you to find one. If you are over 19 years of age, or if you already have degree level qualification, you can still complete the qualification but additional fees will apply.

How do I become an apprentice?There are three routes to become an apprentice:

You have a job and you would like to enrol on to an apprenticeship.

You will start a job in the near future and you would like to enrol on to an apprenticeship.

Just fill in our application form at the back of the prospectus providing details of your employment and we will meet with you and your employer to discuss your needs. We will:

• provide you with all the information you need about apprenticeships and what is involved from the apprentice and employer perspective

• outline the benefits to you and your employer

• discuss how Reading College can make the apprenticeship process work as smoothly and easily as possible for your employer’s business

You would like to find a job so that you can start your apprenticeship.

Our Reading Recruit service will try to match you with job vacancies we have from our employer network. You just need to complete our application form at the back of the prospectus and we will contact you to discuss your application and invite you in for an interview and a diagnostic assessment at the College.

At this interview, we will discuss with you:• what type of job would suit you• the benefits of an apprenticeship• your level of English and maths• available job vacancies and those likely to be

coming up in the near future

In some circumstances we may refer you to a work ready training programme to boost your skills and give you experience of work.

Opportunities for employers

What are the benefits of hiring an apprentice?

Ensures your company is more productive and competitive• Cost-effective method to recruit new staff and keep

current staff up to date with the latest skills and qualifications

• Training is to industry and workplace standards and is delivered by our specialist tutors working in partnership with your staff

• Fully qualified assessors carry out assessments in the workplace

• 88% of employers who employ apprentices believe that apprenticeships lead to a more motivated and satisfied workplace

How much does it cost to train an apprentice?Apprentice training costs for 16-18 year olds are fully funded by the government. Employers will contribute towards training costs for those over 19. Employers are responsible for paying salaries for all apprentices.

Who can become an apprentice?Your current staff can become apprentices, whatever their age or the length of time they have been in the job. Alternatively, you can hire new apprentices.

How do I hire a new apprentice?If you are interested in employing an apprentice, just call us on 0845 467 6068 and we will discuss your needs and help you find a suitable candidate.



Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Accounting Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5BD ACF EP0R

Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Accounting Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship Duration: One year Course Code: 5BD ACG CP0R

The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships are suited to those who are just starting out in accounting and those who already deal with business accounts and want a qualification to help with their role.

Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Accounting Level 4 Higher ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5BD ACH D00R

This higher level apprenticeship is aimed at people who hold AAT Level 3 or an equivalent accounting qualification. The Level 4 stage covers drafting financial statements, budgeting, financial performance, internal control and accounting systems plus two optional units.

Customer Service Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5FD HPF A00R

Customer Service Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship Duration: One – two years Course Code: 9BD CEG A00R

These apprenticeships are a good foundation for a wide variety of job. Wherever you work, you’ll have elements of customer service - offices, shops, call centres, hospitals etc. The apprenticeship gives you a clear understanding of customer service and prepares you for working with people. You’ll spend around two days per month participating in workshops and one to one sessions.

Business Administration Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5FD BUF AP0R

Business Administration Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship Duration: One – two years Course Code: 9BD ANG A00R

This apprenticeship will help you to build the skills required to become a business administrator in any industry. It is for individuals whose roles include a broad range of administrative duties, a high level of autonomy and preferably a supervisory function or responsibility for project management. Upon successful completion you may be in a position to progress to supervisory or management qualifications if your role is appropriate.

Retail Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5FD WSF AP0R

Retail Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: Up to 18 months Course Code: 5FD WSG AP0R

With a young workforce, the UK’s retail sector is vibrant and offers many opportunities for early career progression. From organising displays to learning the crucial aspects of management, the skills gained from these apprenticeships are transferable to all retail companies. You will also learn how to improve your communication and customer service abilities.

Team Leading Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: TBC

The Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Team Leading apprenticeship offers the most comprehensive development route for new and aspiring team leaders or managers. During the programme you will learn the theory of team leading and gain practical skills and experience necessary to progress to management. You will need to be leading people in your current work role to provide evidence to achieve the qualification.

Management Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: One – two years Course Code: TBC

Ideal for first line managers, with a range of responsibilities including allocating work to team members, colleagues and contractors, managing financial and physical resources and some degree of decision making. The qualification will help you to develop your management performance so you can become more effective and progress in your career.


Apprenticeships

Sales and Telesales Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: TBC

Sales and Telesales Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship Duration: One – two years Course Code: TBC

Sales expertise involves helping customers to buy a product or service to meet their needs. As a job, this involves meeting people, building relationships, addressing challenges, being creative in offering solutions and thinking independently. Ultimately, your goal will be to sell as many of your company’s products and services as possible, while taking into consideration the interests of your clients.


Children and Young People’s Workforce Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5CD HEF IP0R

Children and Young People’s Workforce Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5CD HEG IP0R

These apprenticeships are ideal for those wanting to work with children – from birth to 16 year-olds. This could be in a number of settings or services, where the main purpose is children’s care and development. You will also learn how to make sure children are looked after, happy and nourished.

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Ashley HopkinsDomestic Heating Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

I first came to the College on the Level 1 foundation plumbing course and then gained employment with a local company through an apprenticeship.

After completing my apprenticeship, I decided to take a year away from studying to gain more work experience before coming back to the College on a Domestic Heating Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship. I’ve met quite a few people who have trained at Reading College, including my boss!

The training has been excellent; you learn a lot, such as doing things from scratch and problem solving, which is very important as I often work on my own. I have also completed my ACS gas competency assessments and can now register with Gas Safe as a registered gas operative.

My future plan is to run my own business.


Health Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5CD HEF C00R

Health Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: 18 months Course Code: 5CD HEG C00R

These apprenticeships are for people employed in the Health sector caring for people with healthcare needs. The aim of these qualifications is to improve and assess your knowledge and skills relating to the health workforce.

Health and Social Care Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5CD HEF D00R

Health and Social Care Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship Duration: 18 months Course Code: 5CD HEG D00R

Social care is about helping people with a particular need, such as the disabled, the elderly or people with learning disabilities. You could be employed as a healthcare worker in a number of sectors including care homes or hospitals.

Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5CD HEF F00R

Specialist Teaching and Learning in Schools Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5CD HEG F00R

These apprenticeships are ideal for those wanting to work within an education setting i.e. primary or secondary school. You must be employed and work alongside the teaching team with the school. You will combine practical hands-on experience with the knowledge required in the sector.


Food and Beverage Service Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5CD HPF AP0R

Food and Beverage Service Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5CD HPG AP0R

These apprenticeships has been designed for those who want to work in a restaurant. You will study topics such as customer service, maintaining a safe, hygienic and secure working environment, silver service and preparing and serving hot drinks.

Professional Cookery Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5CD CTF A00R

Professional Cookery Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5CD CTG A00R

You will learn the theory of professional cookery and gain the practical skills and experience necessary to progress in this sector or related areas. Your training at the college will include theory delivered through taught classes, as well practical sessions in our commercial kitchen facilities.

Computing and IT

IT and Telecoms Professionals Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5ID ICF AP0R

IT and Telecoms Professionals Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: Up to 18 months Course Code: 5ID ICF BP0R

This apprenticeship covers a broad range of digital technologies that allow companies to share information, such as mobile phones, computers and broadband provision. As IT and telecoms jobs are no longer just about the technology you will also develop your communication skills.


Brickwork Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6CB BRF A00R

Brickwork Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 6CB BRG A00R

You will gain an invaluable insight into the brickwork profession and the future careers that will become open to you. You will develop a range of bricklaying skills in College workshops and in the workplace, including how to set out and erect masonry structures and lay bricks and blocks.


Apprenticeships

Painting and Decorating Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6CB PDF A00R

Painting and Decorating Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 6CB PDG A00R

Within these apprenticeships, you will build up the knowledge required to carry out a number of painting and decorating tasks. This includes preparing and setting up your work area, preparing surfaces and developing a range of painting and wallpapering skills using a wide variety of finishes and application methods.

Plastering Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: 18 months Course Code: 6CB PLF A00R

You will develop a range of plastering skills including preparing surfaces for plaster and working with fibrous plaster to create solid internal and external finishes. You will also choose two optional specialised units such as laying screeds, fixing plasterboards or installing dry linings.

Site Carpentry or Bench Joinery Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: 18 months Course Codes: 6CB CJF B00R – Bench Joinery 6CB CJF A00R – Site Carpentry

Site Carpentry or Bench Joinery Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Codes: 6CDCJGB00R – Bench Joinery 6CDCJGA00R – Site Carpentry

You will develop skills used in the construction of buildings through installing and fixing components,

erecting structural carcassing components and producing non-structural carpentry work. You will also be taught how to use various hand and power tools.

Construction Maintenance Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6CD CNF B00R

This apprenticeship is ideally suited to individuals who already work in a maintenance environment and wish to gain recognised qualifications, or those who want to pursue a career in the maintenance industry.

Engineering

Engineering Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: Up to two years Course Code: 6EB EGF A00R

This apprenticeship is ideally suited to individuals who already work in a maintenance, manufacturing or service environment and wish to gain recognised qualifications, or those who want to pursue a career in the engineering industry.

Electrical/Electronic Engineering Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6EB EGP A00R

This apprenticeship is ideally suited to individuals who already work in an electrical/electronic environment and wish to gain recognised qualifications, or those who want to pursue a career in the electrical/electronic industry.

Mechanical Engineering Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6EB EGP B00R

This apprenticeship is ideally suited to individuals who already work in a mechanical maintenance or manufacturing environment and wish to gain recognised qualifications, or those who want to pursue a career in the mechanical industry.

Hairdressing and Therapies

Barbering Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5HD HAF CP0R

You will cover both practical and theory aspects of barbering including how to give client consultations, cut hair, trim and shape facial hair and shampoo and condition the hair and scalp. You will also learn how to improve both your communication and retail skills.

Beauty Therapy Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5HD BEF AP0R

Beauty Therapy Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5HD BEG AP0R

These apprenticeships cover all the treatments you would find available in a salon. You will study a number of techniques, including improving facial skin conditions, applying spray tan, shaping and colouring brows and performing hand and foot treatments.


Hairdressing Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 5HD HAF A00R

Hairdressing Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: 5HD HAG BP0R

You will learn the theory of hairdressing and gain the practical skills and experience necessary to progress in this industry or related areas. Duties are likely to include booking appointments, dealing with customer enquiries and cutting, shampooing, drying and styling hair.

Logistics

Driving Goods Vehicles Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: TBC

This apprenticeship is for anyone interested in riding a motorcycle or driving a van or a large goods vehicle (LGVs - lorries over 7.5 tonnes). Applicants must be in full-time employment in the logistics industry with access to a suitable vehicle once the necessary training has been completed. You must also be aged 17 or over and hold a full UK driving licence. You must have Category C or C+E or be working towards achieving this as part of the programme.

Passenger Carrying Vehicles Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: TBC

This apprenticeship is for people driving passenger carrying vehicles, predominantly buses, coaches or mini-buses. You need not necessarily have a PCV licence to start the programme, but must

be working for a company where you can work towards gaining this licence as part of the programme.

Warehouse and Storage Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: One year Course Code: TBC

This apprenticeship is suitable if you are training to be, or working as, a warehouse operative. It offers a wide variety of pathways including receiving and storing goods, processing and assembling orders, moving and handling goods and processing returns.

Motor Vehicle

Vehicle Body Repair Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6ED MVF A00R

Working with damaged vehicles, you will gain training to remove and replace various vehicle body parts, using plastic techniques and hand tools. This includes removing, repairing and replacing damaged panels and fixing the vehicle’s alignment.

Vehicle Mechanics Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6ED MVF B00R

You will be employed as a motor vehicle mechanic where your duties will involve automobile repair and maintenance.You will learn how to remove and replace a range of engine and electrical parts and components, while also gaining qualifications in workplace health and safety.

Vehicle Paint Operations Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6ED MVF A00R

This apprenticeship is about patching up damaged vehicles. You will be employed in motor vehicle repair and your job will involve preparing and applying materials to motor vehicle parts, both new and repaired.


Plumbing and Domestic Heating Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6CB HVF B00R

Plumbing and Domestic Heating Level 3 Advanced ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6CD HVG C00R

Aimed at those wanting to become a domestic plumber or central heating fitter, you will look at what is involved with the installation of cold water, hot water, heating systems and waste and soil systems in either occupied or new build houses.

Industrial Commercial Heating and Ventilation Level 2 ApprenticeshipDuration: Two years Course Code: 6CB HVF A00R

This apprenticeship is ideal for those who are interested in the industrial or commercial sector of the heating and ventilation industry. This is the sector which carries out work in large buildings such as hospitals, schools and office developments and you will be involved in the installation of boiler house plant, pipe work and heat emitters.


Apprenticeships

Art, Graphics and Fashion

A career in graphics involves using creative ideas to attract individuals to a product or service. Artists produce paintings, sculptures and other pieces that decorate homes, workplaces and public spaces or are commissioned to bring their talent to a specific project. For those working in fashion, there are almost 300,000 jobs in England, predominately in retail fashion, high fashion and design.

With the industry playing such a big role in everyday lives, the sector is highly competitive. For those who want to run their own high profile business, success comes from establishing a well-earned reputation.

Employers include large high street retailers, schools and colleges, design and digital communication companies and product manufacturers. There are opportunities at all levels, but competition for jobs is intense. Promotion often involves working on more important projects or progressing to management positions.

Work by those in arts, graphics and fashion can be seen everywhere from mobile apps, clothes and flyers to website and billboards. In this industry, key skills include an eye for shape and colour, good spatial awareness, the ability to use computer design software and creative flair. A large proportion of workers in arts, graphics and fashion are self-employed, so business and communication skills are essential.


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Creative Foundation PathwayEntry Level Duration: One year Course code: 9FF REM F00R

This pathway is for those who want to explore a career in a creative field through a full-time college course and would benefit from starting at Entry Level and having a high level of support with English, maths, ICT and personal development. There are numerous starting points throughout the year. You will develop your creative skills through a range of 2D and 3D projects. You are introduced to working with different materials and will start to work with a range of media to create your own designs, following a brief. You will take part in practical activities and assessment is continuous, rather than by exam.

Entry requirementsYou do not need qualifications to join this pathway. However you will need a successful interview with a member of the teaching team to show your commitment to full-time study and your interest in the subject. We will also expect a satisfactory school report. As part of your interview we will assess your levels of English and maths and advise you of the most appropriate level to study.

ProgressionWithin the pathway you can progress from Entry Level to Level 1 as soon as you are ready. When you have achieved your Level 1 qualification you could progress on to Level 2 courses in a related field such as art and design.

Art and Design BTEC Level 1 DiplomaLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 3AF ADK AP0R

This course will introduce you to the broad range of disciplines within art and design. You will explore drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, wood, metal and plastics, photography and digital media. There will be an opportunity to plan and run a `live’ project, and develop employability skills for the creative industries. During the year there will be visits to art galleries and museums. You will also take functional skills qualifications in English, maths and ICT.

Entry requirementsAll applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent art work, including drawing, painting and design work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the one year programme and achieve the full BTEC Level 1 with an overall Merit profile, will be able to progress on to our Art, Design and Media BTEC Level 2 Diploma.


Art and Design BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 3AF ADM AP0R

This one year course helps you improve your art and design skills and gives you the opportunity to gain a full Level 2 qualification in English and maths. It will help you develop your skills, knowledge and understanding of art and design, through the exploration of drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, wood, metal and plastics, photography and digital media. During the year there will be visits to art galleries and museums. In addition, this course will help you develop a deeper understanding of the industry and give you an opportunity to build a portfolio for progression.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs at grade D or above including an art-related subject, English Language and preferably maths, or a BTEC Level 1 Diploma with a Merit profile and supporting functional skills. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent art work, including drawing, painting and design work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the one year programme will be able to progress to a Level 3 course such as fashion design and textiles, photography and digital imaging, art and design, graphics and digital design and product design and enterprise.

Graphics and Digital Design BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 3AF ADM BP0R

This is a course which will encourage and challenge your creative talents and teach you new skills and knowledge. It is for those of you who really like the design side of the arts. The course will cover drawing and colour theory and will introduce you to the design process, typography, photography and computer applications such as Photoshop. It will cover a broad range of skills so that you have chance to discover where your creative strengths lie.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs at grade D or above including an art-related subject, English Language and preferably maths, or a BTEC Level 1 Diploma with a Merit profile and supporting functional skills. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent art work, including drawing, painting and design work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the one year programme will be able to progress to a Level 3 course such as photography and digital imaging, art and design, graphics and digital design and product design and enterprise



Art and Design BTEC Level 3 Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 3AF ADN AP0R

This course covers a broad range of experiences, including photography, printmaking, sculpture, drawing, painting, colour theory, textiles, graphics and digital arts. The first year is exploratory, and the second year allows you to specialise. The course enables you to try different areas and establish your speciality. Initially in year one you will study for a 90 credit diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or above, including an art-related subject, English Language and preferably maths, or a BTEC Level 2 Diploma with a Merit profile or a Higher Diploma and supporting functional skills. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent art work, including drawing, painting and design work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the two year programme should be able to move into employment or higher education. This may include progression to a specialist BA(Hons) degree, foundation degree or a higher national diploma in an art and design related subject.

Fashion, Design and Textiles BTEC Level 3 Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 3AF FTN AP0R

This is a broad course covering a variety of different areas in fashion and art; in the first year you will cover drawing, colour theory, textiles, basic pattern cutting and garment construction; during the second year the focus is more specific to fashion design, including fashion media, styling and promotion, and more advanced garment construction techniques. In the final term of both years there is a garment design and construction project, ending with a fashion show. Initially in year one you will study for a 90 credit diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or above, including an art-related subject, English Language and preferably maths, or a BTEC Level 2 Diploma with a Merit profile or a higher diploma and supporting functional skills. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent art work, including drawing, painting and design work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the two year programme should be able to move into employment or higher education. This may include progression to a specialist BA(Hons) degree, foundation degree or a higher national diploma in a fashion-related subject.


Product Design and Enterprise BTEC Level 3 DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 3AF ADN CP0R

Think Dyson, think Apple, think IKEA - design classics and everyday products come from innovation and exploration of new ways of working and making. On this course you will be encouraged to see yourself as a designer and maker of all that is related to product, craft and design. This course will help you develop practical skills while introducing you to the designing of objects and the development process that influences the production of consumer goods and the wealth of objects and products which shape the world around us. You will be involved in activities that use a broad variety of materials and processes, in the studio as well as in our various workshops and the Digital Media Zone. Initially in year one you will study for a 90 credit diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or above, including English Language and preferably maths, or a BTEC Level 2 Diploma with a Merit profile (or NVQ equivalent)/higher diploma and supporting functional skills. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent art work, including drawing, painting and design work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the two year programme should be able to move into employment or higher education. This may include progression to a specialist BA(Hons) degree, foundation degree or a higher national diploma in a 3D, craft or spatial design related subject.



Lewis EastonGraphics and Digital Design BTEC Level 3 Diploma

I came to College after deciding that sixth form wasn’t for me. I wanted to focus on one subject that I’m passionate about and be treated as an adult.

I’ve always been good at art and wanted a course where I could explore all types of art and improve my own skills. On my graphics and design course I learn new things every day. I am really pleased with how far I’ve come with my hand drawn sketches.

It hasn’t just been my art skills that I’ve developed; organisation is essential throughout the course and is something I will take forward in my future studies and career.

I want to become a GCSE art teacher so I can share my knowledge with others.

Photography and Digital Imaging BTEC Level 3 DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 3AF PTN AP0R

The course has an emphasis on practical, hands-on work, is enjoyable and fast-moving in its structure and delivery. The department is staffed by a friendly and experienced team, who work with you to develop your skills when producing images in a range of photographic situations such as the studio (fashion and still-life photography), on location and in the Digital Media Zone (digital editing and manipulation using Photoshop and InDesign). Initially in year one you will study for a 90 credit diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or above, including an art-related subject or evidence of self-initiated photography, English Language and preferably maths, or a BTEC Level 2 Diploma with a Merit profile or a higher diploma and supporting functional skills. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent photography, digital images or art and design work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the two year programme should be able to move into employment or higher education. This may include progression to a specialist BA(Hons) degree, foundation degree or a higher national diploma in a photography or digital related subject.

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Graphics and Digital Design BTEC Level 3 Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 3AF ADN BP0R

The world of graphics and digital arts is not only very exciting but it is also a big industry that covers many different subjects. The aim of the course is to cover a broad range of such subjects, including web design, animation, drawing, typography, graphic design, basic photography and video operation. You will use a range of applications in the Digital Media Zone, including Photoshop, Flash, InDesign, Dreamweaver. Initially in year one you will study for a subsidiary diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs at grade C or above, including an art-related subject, English Language and preferably maths, or a BTEC Level 2 Diploma with a Merit profile or a higher diploma and supporting functional skills. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent art work, including drawing, painting and design work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the two year programme should be able to move into employment or higher education. This may include progression to a specialist BA(Hons) degree, foundation degree or a higher national diploma in a graphics, visual communication or a design related subject.

Art and Design BTEC Level 3/4 Foundation Diploma (pre-degree)Level 3/4 Duration: One year Course Code: 3AF ADG BP0R

This course is a one year nationally recognised bridging qualification between A-level and higher education. It is fast-paced, but helps you prepare for university. It also helps you to explore different subject areas, making your higher education choice more suited to your creative strengths.

The course covers three distinct stages: exploratory, pathway and the final confirmatory stage. While studying you will have access to excellent facilities, including the Digital Media Zone, photography studios and darkroom, ceramics, metal, wood, and screen print workshops. The level at which the diploma is awarded will depend on your level of engagement with the option units. The grading that you achieve (Pass, Merit or Distinction) is decided by the final major project which is publicly exhibited at the end of the course.

Visit foundationreading.com to view students’ work.

Entry requirementsFive GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language, and one A-level in an art or design-related subject. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent art work, including drawing, painting and design work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the one year programme should be able to move into employment or higher education. This may include a specialist BA(Hons) degree, foundation degree or a higher national diploma in subjects such as graphic design, illustration, animation, fashion design, marketing, advertising, photography, product design.

If you are a mature student wanting to progress on to higher education, see page 50 for information on the Art and Design Access to Higher Education course.



There are opportunities in a number of sectors including national and local government, finance, manufacturing, health, leisure, media, transport and utilities.

In the UK over 3.25 million people work in business and administration and over one million in financial services.

With transferable business skills, there are plenty of opportunities for career progression. This could include working towards a level of management that is part of the running and future planning of an organisation in areas such as HR, payroll, marketing and business development.

For those who are ambitious and have a great business idea, age is no barrier when it comes to setting up a company and joining the 4.5 million small businesses operating in the UK. Entrepreneurial courses will equip individuals with the skills and mindset to turn their talent into a way of making a living.

Management, accountancy, finance and administration are among the most in-demand skills and services in the business world. Every organisation, large or small needs staff with effective business and professional skills to help meet its strategic objectives.

Business, Finance and Professional Studies




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Apprenticeships

AAT Accounting Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 59

AAT Accounting Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 59

Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Accounting Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship

Business Administration Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 59

Business Administration Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 59

Customer Service Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 59

Customer Service Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 59

Management Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 59

Retail Apprenticeship – see page 59

Retail Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 59

Sales and Telesales Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 60

Sales and Telesales Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 60

Team Leading Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 59

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After a few troubled years when I was younger, I began a fresh start in Reading. I spent some time studying for extra GCSEs and then decided to sign up for a course with Reading College. I work well with numbers and felt that accounting was an obvious career choice where I could use my skills.

Although it is demanding, I am really pleased that I chose the AAT course. Not only is it interesting, I am also getting real world experience. When I speak to professional accountants, they are using techniques that I learn in the classroom. It’s reassuring to know that I am improving my employability by gaining the professional skills I need in my career.

Once I have finished this course I would like to move onto the Accounting Level 4 Diploma at the College, gain some work experience and then head to university to become a Chartered Accountant. My ultimate career goal is to work for an international organisation so I can travel the world!


Business BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5BF BUM APOR

The course has been designed to develop your knowledge and understanding of the business sector. It is an integrated programme that introduces aspects of business development and finance and may have work experience incorporated. All assessment is by coursework and your tutor will give you regular feedback and support to help you achieve the best results. You will study and gain qualifications in English and maths, the skills that are essential to progress in a business environment. This will help you to complete your assessed coursework and go on to the next level of study or into employment. In addition the course includes a strong focus on developing your ICT skills.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at grade D or above including English Language and maths, or a Foundation Pathway at Level 1 including functional skills at Level 1 or equivalent qualifications.

ProgressionYou could progress to a relevant Level 3 course such as the Business BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diplomas or direct entry into employment in a business environment in a supervisory or trainee management post.

Business and Retail Foundation PathwaysESOL, Entry Level and Level 1 Duration: One year Course Code: (ESOL) 9FF ESD A00R Course Code: (Entry Level) 9FF FPE B00R Course Code: (Level 1) 9FF REM B00R

These pathways are for those who want to explore a career in business or retail through a full-time college course and would benefit from having a high level of support with English, maths, ICT and personal development. The pathway gives you an introduction to business or retail. You will develop general administration skills while investigating retail business in the local area. You will take part in practical activities where assessment is continuous rather than by exam and you will complete a portfolio as evidence of your learning. There are numerous starting points throughout the year.

This course is also available as an ESOL pathway – an opportunity to gain some vocational experience with the extra support needed if English is your second language.

Entry requirementsYou do not need qualifications to join these pathways. However you will need a successful interview with a member of the teaching team to show your commitment to full time study and your interest in the subject. We will also expect a satisfactory school report. As part of your interview we will assess your levels of English and maths and advise you of the most appropriate level to study.

ProgressionWithin the pathways you can progress from Entry Level to Level 1 as soon as you are ready. When you have achieved your Level 1 qualification you could progress on to Level 2 courses in a related subject such as business or other Level 1 or 2 courses.



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Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Level 2 Certificate and Level 3 Diploma (Fast track)Levels 2 and 3 Duration: Up to one year Course Code: 5BF ACF B00R

This is an opportunity to study for a professional accountancy qualification in under one year. We cover the requirements of the Association of Accounting Technicians at Levels 2 and 3. This is a qualification for people wanting a career in accountancy who wish to follow a route into employment. It is also suitable for people who wish to change careers.

Entry requirementsFive GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and maths.

ProgressionYou could progress to the AAT Level 4 Diploma in Accounting or Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) professional qualifications.

Administration (Return to Work) Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5BF ANF BPOR

This course is designed for adult learners who wish to gain administration skills and an industry-recognised qualification to help them find work in the area of administration or move to a new career area. Alongside studying business and administration processes, you will develop your IT skills, including word processing skills. You will benefit by meeting industry experts in your chosen field and have the opportunity to participate in a two week work placement and course-related excursions. The course aims to equip you to move on to higher level study, employment or other training.

Entry requirementsThis course is for adult learners and there are no formal entry requirements.

ProgressionYou could progress to employment in an administrative or clerical post and/or study at an advanced level.


Business BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 5BF BUQ D00R

This course is aimed at students who are ready and qualified for a higher level business course, whether coming direct from school or progressing from a Level 2 business course.

It offers a fascinating insight into how the commercial world works. You will learn about the structure of business organisations and the processes involved in planning, setting up and running a business venture. Subjects include management and human resources, finance, marketing, basic economics and ethics and the importance of innovation and creativity in business. Initially in year one you will study for a subsidiary diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsFive GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and maths or a BTEC Level 2 diploma at Merit with functional skills at Level 2 in English and maths. If invited for interview, you will initially take part in an introduction to the course and your interview will follow from there.

ProgressionOn successful completion of the course you can progress to a relevant degree course or directly into employment in supervisory or trainee management posts.



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Peter Jones Enterprise Academy

Entrepreneurs are not born, they are made.

If you are ambitious and want to run your own business, then we have the course for you.

The Enterprise and Entrepreneurship BTEC Level 3 Diploma has been developed in partnership with the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy and in consultation with entrepreneurs, business people, experienced teachers and learners.

Wearing smart business clothes, you will spend five days a week in college participating in classroom lectures, workshops and hands-on enterprise activities. You will interact with both national and local entrepreneurs, working on a range of business challenges, including running your own micro business.

On successful completion of the course you will be well placed to start up your own company or work within an established business helping it to grow.


Understanding Business Enterprise and Entrepreneurship BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5FF ERF AP0R

This course has been developed in partnership with the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy. It will help you to develop your entrepreneurial mindset and will focus you on developing the skills you need to start your own business. You spend five days a week in college participating in classroom sessions, lectures, workshops and hands-on enterprise activities. You will interact with both national and local entrepreneurs, working on a range of business challenges, both within teams and as an individual.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at grade D or above, preferably including English Language, maths and science, or a National Award in a relevant subject. You will need to have a successful interview in which you show your motivation to succeed on the course.

What you can progress toOn successful completion of the course you are well placed to start up your own company or alternatively you can progress to a Level 3 course in business or enterprise.

Enterprise and Entrepreneurship BTEC Level 3 DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 5FF ERG BP0R

This exciting course has been developed in partnership with the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy and in consultation with entrepreneurs and business people, experienced teachers and learners. It will help you to develop and apply your entrepreneurial mindset and will enable you to practise the skills you need to start your own business. Learning activities include lectures, team activities and visits to local businesses. You will take part in entrepreneur competitions, visits to SAID business school, research tasks and volunteering opportunities. Discussions, debates and work placements together with the setting up of an enterprise/business will be the focus of learning. A strong emphasis is placed on working and learning with others and you are regularly set tasks to complete in partnership with other students. You also need to be able to work independently and take responsibility for your own learning.

Entry requirementsFive GCSEs grade A*- C or above, preferably including English Language, maths and science, or National Award in a relevant subject, or BTEC Level 2 diploma at Merit or above. Your offer is also subject to a successful interview. In your interview you will need to demonstrate a strong interest in business and your motivation to succeed on the course.

ProgressionOn successful completion of the course you are well placed to start up your own company or to work within an established business helping it to grow. Alternatively you can progress to a higher education course in business, management, business enterprise, marketing or finance.



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Healthcare workers need good communication and people skills and must be able to work well in a team and show initiative. Many roles require workers to be observant and pay close attention to detail. Organisations such as the NHS and armed forces have clearly defined career structures and employees are encouraged to take additional training and work towards promotion. Other healthcare employers include private, charitable and voluntary organisations, local authorities and the prison service.

If you want to work in childcare, you will need to be multi-skilled and it is important that you enjoy working with babies and young children and have an interest in helping children to develop and learn. You could progress to employment in day nurseries, workplace nurseries, children’s centres and nursery classes of primary schools. Employers include local authorities, voluntary and community groups, private companies or you have the option to become self-employed as a nanny.

With an ageing population and an increase in birthrates in the UK over the past decade, the number of jobs in the health and care sector is predicted to rise rapidly. The NHS is the single largest employer offering over 300 different careers. In 2011, over one million non medical staff were employed by the NHS in England alone.




Apprenticeships

Children and Young People’s Workforce Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 60

Children and Young People’s Workforce Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 60

Health and Social Care Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 61

Health and Social Care Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 61

Health Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 61

Health Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 61

Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 61

Specialist Teaching and Learning in Schools Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 61

Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Level 2 and 3 CertificateLevels 2 and 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 9BF TEG B00R

This course develops the skills needed for supporting teaching in schools. It includes a placement in a school and you will also study employability skills as well as having an opportunity to develop your English, maths and ICT skills. You will learn the principles and practice of supporting learning in a school environment and how to evaluate and improve your learning support practice.

Entry requirementsYou need GCSE English at grade D or above (or equivalent) or you will need to demonstrate that you have Level 1 literacy skills.

ProgressionOn successful completion of the course, you can apply for a teaching assistant post in a school.

Health and Childcare Foundation PathwaysESOL, Entry Level and Level 1 Duration: One year Course Code: (ESOL) 9FF ESD B00R Course Code: (Entry Level) 9FF REM A00R Course Code: (Level 1 Health) 9FF FPE A00R Course Code: (Level 1 Childcare) 9FF FPE G00R

These pathways are those who want to explore a career in care, childcare and health through a full-time college course and would benefit from having a high level of support with English, maths, ICT and personal development. There are numerous starting points throughout the year. This diverse and interesting course will develop your knowledge of the impact of lifestyle on health, growth and development. On the course you will learn about family relationships and the healthy development of children. You will take part in practical activities and assessment is continuous rather than by exam.

This course is also available as an ESOL pathway – an opportunity to gain some vocational experience with the extra support needed if English is your second language.

Entry requirementsYou do not need qualifications to join these pathways. However you will need a successful interview with a member of the teaching team to show your commitment to full-time study and your interest in the subject. We will also expect a satisfactory school report. As part of your interview we will assess your levels of English and maths and advise you of the most appropriate level to study.

ProgressionWithin the pathways you can progress from Entry Level to Level 1 as soon as you are ready. When you have achieved your Level 1 qualification you could progress on to Level 2 courses.


Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children and Young People’s Settings Level 1 DiplomaLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 5EF HEE A00R

This one year course is for students who do not yet know if they would like a career in health or child care. It is also a course for students who do not meet the criteria for the Level 2 courses and would like to undertake a full-time course to gain the skills needed to complete a Level 2 course. Employability skills are also embedded within the course. The course will introduce you to the range of service provision and the roles within children’s, young people’s and care settings. You study key subjects such as safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, equality and inclusion, human growth and development and how children learn and develop through play.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at grade E or above including English Language and maths. A Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) check will also be required. You must have a clear CRB with no criminal convictions, reprimands or cautions. We would also like you to have completed at least one week’s work experience in a nursery or school in the foundation/reception classes or in a care setting before the start of your course.

ProgressionYou can progress on to a Level 2 course on completion of Level 1 and the functional skills elements. You could also move into an apprenticeship; the functional skills you learn throughout the year are essential for this.

Children and Young People’s Workforce CACHE Level 2 CertificateLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5SF CCF AP0R

If you would like a career working with children and young people and have some relevant work experience, then this course could get you started in your career. Combining days at college with placement days in early years’ settings, you will be encouraged to link the theory of care for children and young people with your developing practice. This course provides an understanding of both the care and development of the child and their family in a variety of settings. English and maths are also integral as these skills are essential for your employability. Each child is unique with their own way of learning and complex needs. As part of this course you will learn and reflect on how best to meet these needs. You will do this through planning and carrying out practical activities with the children and interacting with them. You will discover from them, what it is they need to help them learn.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at grade D or above including English Language and maths. A Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) check will also be required. You must have a clear CRB with no criminal convictions, reprimands or cautions. We would also like you to have completed at least one week’s work experience in a nursery or school in the foundation/reception classes before the start of your course.

ProgressionYou could progress to a Level 3 qualification in the care of children and young people, or a related subject. Alternatively you can progress into employment in a range of care settings.



Hannah FitzgeraldHealth and Social Care BTEC Level 3 Diploma

I enjoyed my course because I learnt about different areas of the care industry while developing my own skills which are needed to work with children.

I’ve also had really amazing work experiences including at a nursery and Great Ormond Street Hospital. After working in a nursery I decided that this is the career path for me.

I have been working as a Learning Support Assistant at a Slough-based nursery part time and now that I’ve finished my course I am going to work there full time – I can’t wait!

Health and Social Care BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 2SF HEM AP0R

This course covers the range of knowledge and skills that you need to be successful in a career in the care sector. You will learn about various care settings and also have a chance to apply your learning with work experience. Key topics covered include communication skills, personal development, an introduction to equality and inclusion, providing activities for people of all abilities and backgrounds and safeguarding, including recognising signs of abuse and learning how to empower people to protect themselves from abuse.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at grade D or above including English Language and maths. A Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) check will also be required. You must have a clear CRB with no criminal convictions, reprimands or cautions.

ProgressionYou could progress to the Health and Social Care BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma.

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Health and Social Care BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/ Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 2SF HEQ A00R

This course covers the range of knowledge and skills that you need to be successful in a career in the care sector. You will learn about various care settings and also have a chance to apply your learning during work experience. This course will allow you to progress on to further study or seek employment in the health or care sector. Initially in year one you will study for a subsidiary diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsFive GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and maths, or a full relevant Level 2 qualification including Level 2 functional skills in English and maths. A Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) check will also be required. You must have a clear CRB with no criminal convictions, reprimands or cautions.

ProgressionYou could move on to a nursing diploma/degree, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, teaching, social work and a variety of other higher education degree courses. You could also move in to employment in the health and social care sector.

Children and Young People’s Workforce CACHE Level 3 DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: One year Course code: 5ED CCG AP1R

This advanced level course is for those dedicated to a career in childcare and who have good GCSE grades or a CACHE Level 2 Certificate. The course gives you a broad and detailed understanding of the principles of child development and allows you to develop the skills and experience needed to become a fully rounded childcare practitioner, prepared for any starting point in the childcare profession including supervisory roles. You benefit from learning in the workplace and in college. This blend of theory and practice, along with the development of your English and maths skills, contribute greatly to your employability.

Entry requirementsFive GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and maths or successful completion of CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Childcare or another relevant Level 2 qualification. At least Level 2 in functional skills literacy and numeracy, an interest in children, a successful work experience, a satisfactory reference and a Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) check. You must have a clear CRB with no criminal convictions, reprimands or cautions.

We would also like you to have completed at least one week’s work experience in a nursery or school in the foundation/reception classes before the start of your course.

ProgressionYou could progress to employment in a variety of roles with public and childcare providers, including roles where you are supervising children, team leader, nanny, play co-ordinator in a hospital, manager, deputy manager, assessor or nursery nurse supporting the community midwife.




Employees in the industry are often at their busiest during evenings, weekends and on public holidays, with many jobs involving long hours. This is often compensated by the flexibility that shift-work can offer.

Much of the training takes place in industry standard teaching facilities or on the job, with many employers offering a structured programme such as an apprenticeship. With experience and further qualifications, there is career progression in larger organisations to supervisory and management positions. Prospects with small businesses may be more limited, and people often move between employers to progress. Once experienced, some people choose to set up their own business such as a restaurant or small hotel.

Catering and hospitality is an industry that is constantly changing and developing. It provides the public with food, drink and accommodation. There are jobs at all levels, from assistant level to senior management. All roles are about providing customer service, with many involving direct contact with members of the public; good communication skills are essential and most importantly, staff need to enjoy providing excellent customer service. Many jobs require staff to be on their feet for much of the time. Whatever the job, the ability to work well in a team is important. Good organisational and problem-solving skills are essential for staff at management level.



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Emily GreenoughProfessional Cookery Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

I first came to Reading College through the Junior Chefs’ Academy which is for students in Years 9, 10 and 11 wanting to try out a specific industry.

I really enjoyed my time at Junior Chefs and decided to come to the College on the hospitality and catering course. I have completed Levels 1 and 2 and am now on an Advanced Apprenticeship.

There’s so much to learn and I’m enjoying the practical work, in particular improving my classical cookery skills. By learning and working as an apprentice, I am achieving my ambition to become a chef.

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Apprenticeships

Food and Beverage Service Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 61

Food and Beverage Service Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 61

Professional Cookery Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 61

Professional Cookery Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 61



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Catering Foundation PathwayEntry Level Duration: One year Course Code: 9FF REM J00R

This pathway is for those who want to explore a career in hospitality and catering through a full-time college course and would benefit from having a high level of support with English, maths, ICT and personal development. There are numerous starting points throughout the year. The pathway starts to build your knowledge and understanding of a range of skills used in hospitality and catering and covers the catering industry, catering equipment, safe working practices and practical food preparation and cookery. You will take part in practical activities and assessment is continuous rather than by exam.


ProgressionWithin the pathways you can progress from Entry Level to Level 1 as soon as you are ready. When you have achieved your Level 1 qualification you could progress on to Level 2 courses in a related subject.

Chef and Restaurant Level 1 CertificateLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 5CF CTE A00R

This course is aimed at those who wish have a career in hospitality and professional cookery. It allows you to experience working in the hotel, restaurant and tourism industry and develop practical skills in the planning, preparation and cooking of a wide selection of culinary cuisine. Within the course you will further develop your English and maths skills enabling you to complete your coursework and prepare for further study or employment.

Entry requirementsThere are no formal entry requirements; however a good standard of English, maths and ICT is required and this will be assessed at the initial interview. Good communication skills and a positive attitude for food and the hospitality industry are essential.

ProgressionYou could progress to employment in the hotel, tourism and food outlet sectors, front of house reception or retail, or continue your studies on the Chef and Restaurant Level 2 Certificate.


Chef and Restaurant Level 2 CertificateLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5CF CTF B00R

This course is aimed at those who wish to progress their career in hospitality and professional cookery. The programme allows you to further develop your culinary skills to enable you to prepare, cook and finish a range of dishes to include meat, poultry, fish, vegetables, soups, sauces and pastry products. You will be involved with the hotel, restaurant and tourism industry and will have the opportunity to participate in external trips, local functions and excursions to high profile specialist contributors to the industry. Within the course you will develop your English and maths skills which will enable you to complete your coursework and prepare for further study or employment.

Entry requirementsChef and Restaurant Level 1 Certificate or equivalent Level 1 qualifications and functional skills Level 1. You should have a good education record, clear communication skills and a positive reference from a previous school, college or employer.

ProgressionYou could progress to employment in the industry as a professional chef in kitchens, hotels or other food outlets or on to Level 3 courses such as professional cookery or patisserie.

Hospitality BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 5HF HPG C00R

For students who are looking for a fast track to a career in hospitality, this course opens up wide options across the industry, which includes hotels, restaurants, leisure, events, hospital catering and nutrition, public houses and contract catering. Learning through a lively mix of classroom activities, real work scenarios, projects and work placements in the industry, you will gain an understanding of excellent customer service, health, safety and security in the industry, food and beverage operations, event planning, marketing, human resources and accommodation operations. The course will also enable you to further improve your skills and qualifications in English, maths and ICT. Year one is spent studying for the subsidiary diploma. Successful students in year one will be invited back to study for the extended diploma which you will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsFive GCSEs at grade C or above, to include English Language and ideally maths and a positive attitude towards food and the hospitality industry.

ProgressionYou could progress to employment in the hotel, tourism, front of house reception or retail sectors or progress on to a higher national diploma, degree or Hotel Catering and International Management Association (HCIMA) Diploma.


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Computing and IT

Careers range from the highly technical such as software developer, computer games designer or technical support, to those requiring good business awareness such as systems analyst, database administrator or web editor. Roles such as interactive media designer or web developer provide work in this sector for those with high levels of creativity and a design background.

Employers include specialist consultancies that provide a variety of IT services to other businesses and organisations that employ their own in-house IT support teams. These are usually large businesses, ranging from financial services companies through to local authorities.

The development of digital technologies continues to bring about big changes in the working and home environment. Most organisations, large and small, national and international, now rely greatly on their computer systems. One in 20 UK workers are part of the IT and telecommunications industry. The sector is expected to grow twice as fast as the UK average by 2020.



Computing

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Tom CoxIT Extended Diploma BTEC Level 3

Not only was Reading College local, it also had the specialist IT course I was looking for and great facilities.

I’ve made some good friends on my course and we all help each other with our studies. The tutors are really supportive as well, and easily approachable if we have any questions.

What I’ve enjoyed most about my course is the wide range of topics covered. It’s really helped build up my general knowledge of IT, and is ideal for my career because I want to enter the industry as a general technician before deciding where to specialise in the future.

Apprenticeships

IT and Telecoms Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 61

IT and Telecoms Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 61

ICT Foundation PathwaysEntry Level and Level 1 Duration: One year Course Code: (Entry Level) 9FF REM E00R Course Code: (Level 1) 9FF FPE E00R

These pathways are for those who want to explore a career in IT or business through a full-time college course and would benefit from having a high level of support with English, maths and personal development. This course gives you an introduction into the day-to-day working of different businesses and what they need to do to survive and thrive in the commercial environment. There is a strong emphasis on IT for business purposes. You will take part in practical activities and assessment is continuous rather than by exam. There are numerous starting points throughout the year.


ProgressionWithin the pathway you can progress from Entry Level to Level 1 as soon as you are ready. When you have achieved your Level 1 qualification you could progress on to Level 2 courses in a related field such as ICT, business or other Level 1 or Level 2 courses.

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ICT Practitioners BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5IF ICM APOR

The IT industry is constantly evolving and developing in new and innovative ways. This diploma will provide you with a broad introduction to the world of IT, allowing you to develop your knowledge and understanding of the contribution technology makes to modern life. You will develop your knowledge and skills in a creative and enjoyable way, combining academic learning with hands-on experience. This course offers students the opportunity to study a range of subjects including software design, computer hardware, databases, networking, and web development. You will also develop your English, maths and ICT skills to help you to complete your coursework and prepare for further study or employment.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs grade D or above including English Language and maths, or a foundation diploma with functional skills at Level 1. All applicants will be interviewed and must show the maturity and self-motivation to cope with the course and a career in the world of IT. In exceptional circumstances students may be admitted with lower qualifications.

ProgressionYou could progress to a relevant Level 3 course such as the ICT Practitioners BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma or A-levels. You could also move directly into employment in the IT industry; many students continue their studies on a part-time basis alongside work.

ICT Practitioners BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 5IF SOQ P00R

The use of IT is transforming the way we do business, use our spare time and enjoy culture. This Level 3 diploma will prepare you for a career in the specialist IT world or on to higher education. You will learn a mixture of business, technical, interpersonal and project skills needed in professional IT and telecommunications roles. This course provides you with the opportunity to study a range of subjects including computer systems, software design, computer hardware, information systems, systems analysis, databases, e-commerce, networking, human computer interaction, web development, computer games and computer animation. You also take CISCO professional networking qualifications. Year one is spent studying for the subsidiary diploma. Successful students will be invited back to study for the extended diploma which you will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsFive GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and maths, a higher diploma at grade C or above or Merit grade in a BTEC diploma with functional skills at Level 2. You will be interviewed and must show the maturity and self-motivation to cope with the course and a career in the world of IT.

ProgressionOn successful completion of the course you can progress directly into employment in the computing industry or on to a relevant degree course, in such areas as computer science, networking, or multimedia.


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Different jobs in the construction industry need different skills and knowledge. Operatives and craftspeople need practical skills for using tools and machinery as well as communication, teamwork, problem solving, numeracy and the ability to work to deadlines. Technicians require scientific understanding, as well as knowledge in IT and maths and presentation, organisational and negotiation skills.

Projects across the industry include the construction of new buildings and the renovation, repair and maintenance of existing buildings. This varies from hospitals and houses to bridges and football stadiums.

Much of the training takes place in industry standard teaching facilities or on the job, with many employers offering a structured programme such as an apprenticeship. With experience and further qualifications, there is career progression in larger organisations to supervisory and management positions. Many workers in the industry are self-employed and work towards building a well-earned reputation and successful business.

The construction and built environment sector covers a wide range of work and makes up eight percent of the total UK workforce. At a professional and technician level, people are involved in planning, design, surveying, inspection and project management. At craft level, there are many different skilled trades, from bricklaying to scaffolding, plastering and roofing.



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Simon Holder Plastering NVQ Level 2 Diploma (OSAT)

I decided to come to Reading College because of its dedicated construction facilities and the enthusiasm of the staff.

I’ve been plastering since I was 16 and want to change from general labour to developing specialist skills. I believe that qualifications are important to get ahead and the College offered the chance not only to gain them, but also to put my new and existing skills into practice.

It’s great learning with others who have similar interests and to be taught by people with a wealth of industry experience. The tutors regularly use their construction knowledge in our classes. I can see how much I’ve progressed throughout the course and it has really shown me that there is value in the course and that it isn’t a waste of time.

I’m planning to progress onto the Plastering Level 3 course and continue to work for companies where I can specialise in my trade.

Apprenticeships

Bench Joinery Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 62

Bench Joinery Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 62

Brickwork Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 61

Brickwork Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 61

Painting and Decorating Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 62

Painting and Decorating Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 62

Plastering Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 62

Site Carpentry Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 62

Site Carpentry Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 62

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Construction Foundation PathwaysEntry Level and Level 1 Duration: One year Course Code: (Entry Level) 9FF REM C00R Course Code: (Level 1) 9FF FPE N00R

These pathways are for those who want to explore a career in construction through a full-time college course and would benefit from having a high level of support with English, maths, ICT and personal development. There are numerous starting points throughout the year. The focus is on the practical side of the construction industry and gives you hands-on experience although you will also study some aspects of theory. Topics covered include basic brickwork, tiling, painting and decorating and carpentry skills. You will take part in practical activities and assessment is continuous rather than by exam.

Entry requirementsYou do not need qualifications to join these pathways. However you will need a successful interview to show your commitment to full-time study and your interest in the subject. We will also expect a satisfactory school report. As part of your interview we will assess your levels of English and maths and advise you of the most appropriate level to study.

ProgressionWithin the pathways you can progress from Entry Level to Level 1 as soon as you are ready. When you have achieved your Level 1 qualification you could progress on to Level 2 courses in a related area.

Bricklaying Level 1 DiplomaLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 6CF BRE C00R

This course gives you a broad understanding of bricklaying and lets you start to practise bricklaying skills such as measuring, estimating, drawing out plans and laying bricks and blocks to build large brickwork structures. You will learn through a combination of practical and theoretical work and you will be taught in our well-equipped construction workshop by fully qualified and experienced staff. You will further develop your English, maths and ICT skills to help you to complete your course work and prepare for further study or employment.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at grade D or above are desirable. You will have an interview and aptitude test to assess your suitability for this vocational area.

ProgressionYou could start an apprenticeship or other employment in the industry. There is also the chance to continue your studies and gain NVQ Level 2 and Level 3 in a construction or a building services occupation.



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Carpentry Level 1 DiplomaLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 6CF CJE A00R

The Level 1 diploma is an introductory qualification in carpentry and joinery for people who are interested in woodwork in the construction industry. The course will enable you to build up a broad range of skills and knowledge in a range of construction and building-related services, focusing on skills in carpentry and joinery. You will learn through a combination of both practical and theory work, learning in our construction workshops and machine woodworking workshops which are amongst the best in the south of England. This Level 1 diploma is an ideal foundation for an apprenticeship in the industry and/or for progressing on to further studies

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at grade D or above including English Language and maths. You will have an interview with a practical aptitude test and online assessment to assess your suitability for the course.

ProgressionYou could gain employment and start a Level 2 apprenticeship, studying for an NVQ Level 2 and a Level 2 diploma in either Site Carpentry or Bench Joinery. Even without an apprenticeship, you could go on to study the Level 2 diploma in either trade.

Painting and Decorating Level 1 DiplomaLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 6CF PDE C00R

This course is specifically designed for people who are interested in a career in the construction craft of painting and decorating. It enables you to build up a broad range of practical skills such as preparing surfaces, applying paint by brush or roller and wallpapering, along with a basic understanding and knowledge of other construction trades. You will be taught by experienced staff and the workshops, classrooms and learning resource areas are well-managed, maintained and equipped, enabling you to achieve your qualification. The course is fast-paced, well-structured and designed for you to have a pleasurable learning experience as well as learning lifelong skills including English, maths and ICT. These skills will help you to complete your work and prepare for further study or employment.


ProgressionHistorically this course offers good progression into apprenticeships with local firms. There is also the chance to continue your studies and gain NVQ Level 2 and 3 in a construction or business services occupation.


Plastering Level 1 DiplomaLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 6CF PLE C00R

This course allows you to gain a broad understanding of plastering and start to practise a range of plastering skills that will equip you to start a career in the industry. You will learn how to prepare surfaces for plaster, carry out basic plastering and apply fibrous plaster (as an introduction to decorative plaster work). Teaching combines theory and practical activities and takes place iin our well-equipped construction workshop, led by fully qualified and experienced staff. You will develop your English, maths and ICT skills to help you to complete your course work and prepare for further study or employment.


ProgressionYou could go on to an apprenticeship or other employment in the industry. There is also the chance to continue your studies and gain NVQ Level 2 and Level 3 in a construction or building services occupation.



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Engineering

Branches of engineering include aerospace, chemical and materials, electrical, electronics, telecommunications and power engineering, mechanical and renewable energy.

Entry is possible through a number of different routes. Apprenticeships can lead to craft and technician jobs. Studying engineering at college can provide the first step towards university entrance or lead to an engineering or manufacturing apprenticeship. Maths and science are also important subjects, especially for those wanting to train to become technicians or professional engineers.

Around 1.7 million people work in engineering at all levels, ranging from operators, craftspeople and technicians to professional engineers involved in research and design. There are opportunities with industrial and manufacturing companies, in specialist engineering workshops, with utilities and in design and development companies.Engineering and engineering design is central to all developing and advancing technologies and people with the right skills will always be in demand. Emerging positions in engineering include, environmentally focused jobs, along with global relations, social media, mobile technology and cyber security.


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Jake VenthamEngineering BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma

I have always been interested in science and technology and was keen to learn more about engineering when I finished my GCSEs.

Engineering at Reading College was the best option for me because the course has a good balance of academic theory and practical work which was not available at my sixth form. The Level 3 course is challenging but rewarding, I’m learning new techniques all the time and also have the opportunity to use the College facilities to practise and experiment in my free time.

I have quite a few options available to me once I’ve finished my diploma. I hope to either start an apprenticeship or go to university and study renewable energy. I have a good grounding now and I want to build on it and boost my long-term prospects.

Apprenticeships

Engineering Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 62

Electrical/Electronic Engineering Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 62

Mechanical Engineering Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship - see page 62

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Engineering BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 6EF EGM A00R

This course has been developed by the maintenance, manufacturing, electronic and general engineering sectors to give full-time learners the opportunity to enter employment or to progress to higher level engineering qualifications. It will enable you to develop your knowledge of engineering materials, design and processes, graphical communication including CAD, electrical and electronic principles. You will study core units covering engineering working practices, using engineering information, maths for technicians and electrical and mechanical science for engineering purposes. You also have the chance to specialise in additional areas and develop your English, maths and ICT skills which are essential for successful performance in working life.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs grade A*- D in English Language, maths and science at grade D or above, or achievement on a Level 1 course. You will be interviewed and must demonstrate self-motivation.

ProgressionYou can progress to the Engineering BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma, other advanced level courses or seek employment.

Engineering BTEC Level 3 Diploma/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 6EF EGX A00R

For those aspiring to become professional engineers, supervisors or managers, the BTEC diploma in Engineering has been developed to give full-time learners the opportunity to enter employment in the mechanical/ electrical engineering sector or progress to higher education. You will study the different sectors in engineering and their underlying processes, systems and structures. You will explore the scientific principles of engineering and develop the analytical and problem solving skills that are needed within an engineering environment. You will work on your English, maths and ICT and develop a range of skills and techniques, including personal skills and attributes to help you progress successfully. Initially you will study for the BTEC Level 3 Diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsFive GCSE at grade A*- C including English Language, maths and science, a higher diploma at grade C or above or Merit grade in a BTEC Level 2 diploma with functional skills at Level 2. You will be interviewed and must demonstrate self-motivation.

ProgressionThis course will help you explore and assess the wide range of careers available for those with engineering skills. You can progress directly into degree level studies in engineering or related subjects.


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Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures) Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course code: 6EF EIF AP0R

Electrical installation is at the heart of building services engineering which is one of the fastest growing engineering sectors in the UK. The sector requires a workforce that can work at all levels to maintain and improve the services within a building. You will learn how quickly the building services engineering sector is growing and how the internal services within a building are becoming more valuable and complex. You will develop vocational skills required for the sector. This will include health and safety requirements, mechanical operations and design and planning systems. Practical aspects include the installation of electrical circuits, equipment, cables and accessories and the use of hand and power tools.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at grade D or above in English Language, maths and science, or achievement on a Level 1 course. You will be interviewed and must demonstrate self-motivation.

ProgressionYou will gain skills and knowledge that will make you more desirable to an employer; this could be for progression to an apprenticeship as an electrician or working in air conditioning. You could also progress on to the Level 3 course.

Performing Engineering Operations Level 2 NVQ DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 6ED EGF AP0R

This qualification is appropriate for employees in the engineering sector working across a broad range of areas. It is designed to assess your occupational competence in the workplace where you will be required to demonstrate skills and knowledge to a level required by the engineering industry. This pre-apprenticeship programme is designed to equip you with the practical skills and knowledge needed to enter the engineering industry by combining the hands-on Level 2 NVQ with the more theoretical BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Engineering.

Entry requirementsYou will need to have completed formal education up to age 16 and provide a satisfactory school report and have GCSE grades in English, maths and science. A successful interview will be required.

ProgressionOn successful completion of the Performing Engineering Operations Level 2 NVQ with the Edexcel BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Engineering you will have completed a significant part of the engineering apprenticeship framework so you will be in a good position to take up an engineering apprenticeship with a company or you could progress on to a relevant Level 3 programme.


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English and Maths

If English is not your first language, we have courses that will help improve your spoken English and also your listening, reading and writing skills. This can help in work, further study and everyday life in the UK.

If you are a mature student, you can gain nationally recognised English and maths qualifications, delivered in a friendly and supportive environment. With the help and support from our specialist staff you can progress into employment or back into education.

Many students find that improving their English gives their confidence, social skills and independence a real boost.

English and maths are essential for every aspect of life. Not only are they skills that will help you achieve in your studies, they are also looked for by employers when recruiting or promoting staff.As English and maths are key to success in your academic and employment career, Reading College courses include relevant, work-related activities to develop the English and maths you need for the area of work you are preparing for.



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Simona MaluweEnglish for Adults Level 1

I wanted to refresh my English and improve my writing skills, and was pleased that Reading College had a suitable course for me as I’ve studied here before.

The teachers are great; they make the lessons fun and enjoyable, so you want to keep attending the class and learning.

Once I have achieved my English qualification, I would like to progress onto a management course at the College.

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Skills for Life and Skills for WorkAll levels from Entry 1 to Level 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 9LD ESB H00R

This course is ideal if you live in the UK and you want to improve your English to help you study at a higher level or get a better job. We will place you on the right level course following an assessment of your level of English. You can study full time, part time or in the evenings.

On the course you will work on improving your speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in typical situations as a resident of the UK. You will learn more about grammar and build your vocabulary. The qualification is recognised by the Home Office for Citizenship applications.

Entry requirements You do not need any previous qualifications. These courses are for people who are planning to live in the UK. We will expect commitment from you to attend class regularly and look for a strong motivation to improve your English.

Progression Once you finish your course and pass your exam, you will have a better chance of finding a job or moving on to a higher level course. A key element of the course is the support you will receive to plan your career.

For students aged 16–19 we have ESOL Foundation pathways for Health and Business. See page 82 for Health and page 75 for Business.

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English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and English Plus coursesEntry 1 to Level 2 Duration: One term to one year, 18 hours a week Course Code: 2LS EEB A00R

This course is for people whose first language is not English and who want to improve their English for work or study purposes. On the course you will develop your ability to listen to and speak English as well as improve your reading and writing skills. Alongside your English studies you will be able to take another subject to broaden your knowledge. One of the options is International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The course allows you to focus on becoming a more independent learner and there are numerous group activities, visits and outings to encourage you to make new friends.

Entry requirementsThere are no formal entry requirements. We will assess your level so we can place you on the most suitable course. If you are applying from abroad, you may need to apply for a visa to study in the UK, visit reading-college.ac.uk/international for more information.

ProgressionYou could progress to the International Foundation Programme, other further or higher education courses or work in an English-speaking environment.

English and Maths for AdultsEntry Level to Level 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 9BD SLB A00R

If you need to improve your English and maths or your skills for work or study, then these courses are the answer. Our courses are free for adults who want to improve their reading, writing and number work.

We offer daytime and evening classes where you will work in small groups with other people like you. You will learn in a friendly and supportive setting and work towards gaining a qualification.

Entry requirementsYou don’t need any qualifications. You will come for an interview so we can decide which level of class is most suitable for you.

Progression Depending on the level at which you start, progression paths include higher level courses and employment.


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Maths GCSELevel 2 Duration: One year part-time Course Code: 2SE GCR A18R

This GCSE will help you develop a positive attitude to maths, an appreciation of the place of maths in society, the ability to think mathematically, the ability to understand mathematical ideas and how to communicate them in a variety of modes. This is a good subject to help develop your analytical skills.This course is targeted at the foundation tier, the maximum grade available is C. This course can be studied part time alongside a full-time course.

Entry requirementsYou should normally have achieved GCSE at grade D in maths. You will also be required to complete a BKSB online numeracy assessment and achieve at Level 1.

ProgressionGaining an C grade can help with your progression on to suitable Level 3 courses, apprenticeships, or help you find employment.

Remix to College PathwaysEntry Level 3, Level 1 and Level 2 Duration: One or two years Course Code: 9FF REF A00R

This full-time option is for those who are aiming to progress to a Level 2 course but whose English and maths are not quite at the required standard and would benefit from some intensive learning in these areas. Many students progress well with this focused approach to English and maths and in the relaxed, yet professional learning environment of a college. The course is available part time if you want to take one subject only. You will gain nationally recognised qualifications.

Entry requirementsYou do not need qualifications to join these pathways. However you will need a successful interview to show your commitment to full time study; we will also expect a satisfactory school report. As part of your interview, we will assess your levels of English and maths and advise you on the most appropriate level to study.

ProgressionYou can progress on to a wide range of Level 2 courses.

English Language GCSELevel 2 Duration: One year part-time Course Code: 2SE GCR A07R

The skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening are of vital importance in many areas. Not only are they essential in many careers, they also underpin successful study at all levels. For GCSE English you are required to write accurately and fluently. There are two tiers: higher and foundation. This course can be studied part time alongside a full-time course.

Entry requirementsYou normally have four GCSEs at grade D including English Language. You will also be required to complete a BKSB online literacy assessment and achieve Level 1.

ProgressionGaining an A*- C grade can help you progress on to a suitable Level 3 course or employment.


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Foundation Learning and Preparation for Work

Benefits of the Foundation Pathways:

• high level of support throughout the course from teachers, learning mentors, study support team and a personal tutor

• small classes and a high level of individual attention

• suited to people who like learning by doing

• strong focus on English, maths and personal development skills

• work experience for most students

• intensive support from our Employment and Careers team

• start at any time of the year and move from the Entry Level to the Level 1 pathway once ready

• continuous assessment and individual feedback throughout the course

Left school with few qualifications, lower grades than you were hoping for, or need extra support with your English and maths? We offer a range of courses that can help you to prepare for employment and develop your personal and workplace skills.Foundation Pathways are ideal if you are not sure what career direction to take and would benefit from extra time to try out an area of work-related learning that interests you. You will be introduced to the vocational areas and get a head start with lots of support with your English and maths.

Pathways are available in:

Business and Retail see page 74 Creative see page 66

Health and Childcare see page 82 Sports see page 160

Catering and Hospitality see page 89 Remix 4 Work see page 117

Horticulture see page 117 Travel and Tourism see page 164

Construction see page 99 Hair and Beauty Therapy see page 122 and 145-146

ICT see page 94 Personal and Social Development see page 116


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Foundation

Craig WaiteSport Level 1 Foundation Pathway

I came to the College open evening and felt that this was the best place for me. By studying on the sport foundation course, I could get the grades I needed to progress. I’ve managed to achieve more in one year than I did in five years at school.

I’ve now finished the foundation course and am studying Sport BTEC Level 2 Diploma. I’ve had plenty of support from the College and have had the opportunity to gain some coaching qualifications.

Everything I am learning will help me reach my goal of becoming a football coach.

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Development Foundation PathwayEntry Level and Level 1 Duration: One year Course code: 9FF DEM A00R

This course is ideal for those who need more time to develop their personal, social and study skills before progressing in education or the workplace. You will spend time developing your English, maths and ICT skills alongside personal and employability skills. It may be possible to arrange work experience to help you build your skills. You will take part in practical activities and assessment is continuous rather than by exam. There are numerous starting points throughout the year.

Entry requirementsYou do not need qualifications to join this course. However you will need a successful interview to show your commitment to full-time study.

ProgressionYou could progress on to further study at college or into a job.

NGage Entry Level and Level 1 Foundation PathwaysEntry Level and Level 1 Duration: Three months Course code: 9FD REM A00R

NGage is a flexible programme to suit the needs of each individual. We will develop a programme of learning that can fit your specific needs, setting targets and developing and improving the essential skills you need to progress into employment or a college course.

Entry requirementsYou do not need qualifications to this course. However you will need a successful interview to show your commitment to full-time study and your interest in the subject. We will also expect a satisfactory school reference.

ProgressionYou could progress into a job or on to further study at college.


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Horticulture Foundation PathwaysEntry 3 and Level 1 Duration: One year Course Code: (Entry 3) 9FF REM R00R Course Code: (Level 1) 9FF REE A00R

These pathways are for those who want to explore a career in horticulture through a full-time college course and would benefit from having a high level of support with English, maths, ICT and personal development. There are numerous starting points throughout the year. These courses give you an introduction to working in horticulture, building up your basic knowledge and skills in growing techniques, the use of garden tools and garden maintenance. You will take part in practical activities and assessment is continuous, rather than by exam.

Entry requirementsYou do not need qualifications to join these pathways. However you will need a successful interview to show your commitment to full-time study and your interest in the subject. We will also expect a satisfactory school report. As part of your interview we will assess your levels of English and maths and advise you of the most appropriate level to study.

ProgressionWithin the pathways you can progress from Entry Level to Level 1 as soon as you are ready. When you have achieved your Level 1 qualification you could progress on to Level 2 courses in a related field.

Remix 4 WorkEntry Level 2 to Level 3 Duration: 6 or 12 weeks Course Code: 9BD WSE HP0R Course Code: 9BD WSE QP0R

This is a short flexible course for people who want to get into employment and need some extra help and support. There is also an opportunity for you to attend some work experience if you would like. During the course you will cover various employability skills such as writing CVs and covering letters, health and safety, practising application forms, customer service, interview skills, option to improve English, maths and ICT and work experience.

Entry requirementsYou need to complete skills assessments in literacy and numeracy.

ProgressionYou can progress to full-time, part-time work, voluntary work, a full-time course, or our Step into an Apprenticeship course.


Horizons – Skills for LivingEntry Level Duration: One year Course Code: 9DF SLB AP0R

This course is for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. Our highly experienced staff help students develop life skills so they can work towards living as independently as possible. Students will learn through a mixture of small groups, specialist teaching and individual support and can gain practical skills including cookery, gardening and music. Students develop their literacy, numeracy and ICT skills, and increase their self-esteem and confidence.

Entry requirementsNo qualifications are required for this course. All candidates will be assessed on an individual basis.

ProgressionThis course allows students to move on to supported living and employment, or progress on to a third year of study.

Horizons – Work PreparationEntry Level Duration: One year Course Code: 9DF WPB AP0R

This course is mainly for students with learning difficulties and/ or disabilities. In addition to developing their personal and social skills, students will spend two days a week on work experience. The course is varied and allows students to develop their literacy, numeracy and ICT skills as well as their work skills. Students also learn practical skills through sessions that include cookery, art, photography and radio. Our supportive and experienced staff will help prepare students for employment and an independent life.

Entry requirementsNo qualifications are required. Students will be individually assessed and given an informal interview.

ProgressionStudents can progress on to employment, possibly gained through work experience. Alternatively they can move on to further study.

Horizons – STEPS (Skills for Training, Employment, Progression and Self Development)Entry to Level 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 9DF STB AP0R

This course will help students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities progress to mainstream courses. The programme allows students to work more independently and provides them with weekly work experience. There will still be specialised support but classes will be in larger groups. Literacy, numeracy and ICT skills will also be developed and subjects such as Citizenship and Drama will be studied.

Entry requirementsNo qualifications are required. Students will be individually assessed and given an informal interview. An educational statement may be required.

ProgressionStudents can progress on to employment, possibly gained through work experience. Alternatively they can move on to other Level 1 or Level 2 courses.

Horizons – ACE @ WorkEntry Level Duration: One year Course Code: 9DF SKB M00R

This course is for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities and has specialist support to help boost work skills. The course helps develop enterprise skills in a supportive environment. Students participate in workshops and create goods that are then sold. They gain work confidence and increase their skills in communications and numeracy.

Entry requirementsNo qualifications are required. Students will be individually assessed and given an informal interview.

ProgressionStudents can progress on to supported employment or further study.

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Hairdressingand Therapies

There is good career progression for hair and beauty therapists, including the management of a salon, health farm or leisure club, setting up and running a hair and beauty salon or becoming a trainer or lecturer.

Much of the training takes place in industry standard teaching facilities or on the job, with many employers offering a structured programme such as an apprenticeship. This means that students can learn and develop their skills with people in a real salon experience.

The hair and therapy industry is a vibrant and ever changing industry, which currently employs more than 250,000 people in the UK. Keys skills include excellent customer service, good hand-eye coordination and a creative flair.A career in hairdressing or beauty therapy can involve seeing the world on a luxury cruise liner, working as professional make-up artist or in a salon or spa. The opportunities in hair and beauty therapy are endless, but all require hard work and dedication to the industry.


Hairdressingand Therapies

Hairdressing

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Apprenticeships

Barbering Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 62

Beauty Therapy Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 62

Beauty Therapy Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 62

Hairdressing Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 63

Hairdressing Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 63

Hair and Beauty Foundation PathwayEntry Level Duration: One year Course Code: 9FF FPE D00R

This pathway is for those who want to explore a career in hair and beauty therapy through a full-time college course and would benefit from starting at Entry Level and getting support with English, maths, ICT and personal development. There are numerous starting points throughout the year. These are practical and informative courses for those looking for an introduction to a career in hairdressing, barbering and beauty. Based in our salon on campus you will learn about salon presentation as well as the basics in hair, skin and hand care. You will take part in practical activities and assessment is continuous rather than by exam.

Entry requirementsYou do not need qualifications to join this course. However you will need a successful interview with a member of the teaching team to show your commitment to full-time study and your interest in the subject. We will also expect a satisfactory school report. As part of your interview we will assess your levels of English and maths and advise you of the most appropriate level to study.

ProgressionWithin this pathway you can progress from Entry Level to a Level 1 course in a related vocational area such as hairdressing or beauty therapy as soon as you are ready.

Beauty Therapy VRQ Level 1 CertificateLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 5HF BEE BP0R

This course is designed for school leavers who wish to go into the beauty therapy industry and want to develop their knowledge and skills in basic skin care and hand care. This could be beneficial within a department store environment (beauty counters) and /or as part of progressing onto the next level and developing more knowledge and additional skills. The course is divided into ten subjects which include practical units in skin care, face painting, basic hand care and manicure.

Entry requirementsThere are no formal entry requirements; however a good standard of English is required. It would be beneficial for learners to have a creative ability with clear communication skills and knowledge of science and/or PE theory, but this is not essential.

ProgressionYou can progress to further study at Level 2 in beauty therapy, hair and media make-up, hairdressing, or work as a junior in a beauty salon.


Hairdressing Level 1 DiplomaLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 5HF HAE C00R

This course is for school leavers who wish to prepare to train as a hairdresser. Learning in our commercial salon, you will start to develop the basics of hairdressing. Apart from learning basic principles of health and safety, professional salon behaviour, reception roles and customer care, you will work on your personal presentation and effective communication skills. We will teach you the techniques needed to provide mini salon treatments, including shampooing and blow drying. All this experience puts you in a great position to progress to the next level.

Entry requirementsYou need to be presentable, creative and have a successful interview where you demonstrate your interest in hairdressing. We ask for a school report to accompany your application form. It is essential to purchase personal equipment and salon work wear costing £250–£350. You may be able to access a course costs grant for a contribution towards this.

ProgressionYou can progress to further study at Level 2 in hairdressing, complementary therapy or beauty therapy or seek employment and continue your training part time.

Hair and Media Make-up Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5HF HAF BP0R

This is an integrated course for those who wish to work in the theatrical or media side of the industry, and combines hairdressing with theatrical make-up. This varied and comprehensive course gives you the skills to branch out in a number of directions, should you choose to, including progression to Level 3 study.

Entry requirementsA successful interview, a literacy and numeracy assessment and a satisfactory school report. You will need to be presentable and have creative ability. It is essential to purchase personal equipment and salon work wear costing £800–£1000. You may be able to access a course costs grant for a contribution towards this.

ProgressionYou could progress to employment within the theatrical and media industries or work as a hairdresser either freelance or in a variety of organisations including salons, leisure centres and hotels. You may also wish to continue to study hairdressing or beauty therapy on a Level 3 course.


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yCatherine MilhenchBeauty Therapy Level 3 Combined Diploma

I knew I wanted to work in the hair and beauty industry, but wasn’t sure what area to specialise in. I chose the combined course because it would allow me to cover so many aspects of the industry.

I’m so glad I chose my course and Reading College; I have been given many opportunities to gain experience in the College’s professional salon and complete additional courses such as wigmaking and theatrical make-up.

My whole college experience helped greatly with my university application. I have received an unconditional offer from University College Birmingham to study Specialist Hair and Media Make-Up. When I spent time at the university, I was the only one to have wigmaking and theatrical make-up skills!

My time at university will build up on the skills I have gained at College and help me achieve my career goals.

Beauty Therapy Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5HF BEF CP0R

This is a natural progression from our Level 1 course or is a good place to start if you have some work experience. Working in our commercial salon, you will be introduced to many aspects of beauty therapy, developing your knowledge and practical skills. Your modules will include skin care and make-up treatments, waxing, pedicure and manicure treatments and consulting and advising clients on treatments. You will also need to undertake a one week work placement. The course requires a high level of commitment and motivation. You will be assessed throughout the course and set a number of assignments.

Entry requirementsBeauty Therapy Level 1 Diploma and functional skills qualifications. Alternatively you should have a good general standard of education and some work experience. You should have a good reference, creativity, ambition and the willingness to accept new challenges. It is essential to purchase personal equipment and salon work wear costing £250–£300. You may be able to access a course costs grant for a contribution towards this.

ProgressionThis course can lead to work as a beauty therapist either freelance or in a variety of organisations including salons, health farms, leisure centres and hotels. There is also the chance to progress to further study in Level 3 beauty therapy, complementary therapy, hairdressing, or related subjects.


Ladies Hairdressing Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5HF HAF CP0R

This course is for those who wish to enter the hairdressing industry. You will develop your knowledge and skills of hairdressing services and treatments, working in our commercial salon. The course covers a wide range of hairdressing treatments, client care and consultation, creating hair styles to suit individual clients’ needs and understanding hair growth and growth patterns. You will develop your practical knowledge and skills so you can competently cleanse and condition, cut and style, colour and permanent wave hair in a variety of styles to suit a wide range of hair types. You will work on a range of clients of different age, gender and ethnicity to develop your competence to work on all clients.

Entry requirementsHairdressing Level 1 Diploma and functional skills or entry by successful interview with an emphasis on life skills. You should have a good education history, clear communication skills and a positive reference from a previous college or employer. You will be required to provide evidence of your qualifications before starting the programme. It is essential to purchase personal equipment and salon work wear costing £300-£500. You may be able to access a course costs grant for a contribution towards this.

ProgressionYou could progress into employment as a hairdresser, either within a salon or as a freelancer, or on to Level 3 study in hairdressing.

Beauty Therapy Level 3 DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 5HF BEG BP0R

This course is a natural progression from the Beauty Therapy Level 2 Diploma and requires a high level of commitment and motivation. You will study more advanced techniques, such as electrotherapy, microdermabrasion, electrical epilation and perfect the essentials such as health and safety in the salon and consulting and advising clients on treatments. You will be assessed throughout the course and set a number of assignments. Upon successful completion you will be in a position to start work or progress to further studies.

Entry requirementsBeauty Therapy Level 2 Diploma and functional skills qualifications. You should have a good reference, creativity, ambition and the willingness to accept new challenges. It is essential to purchase personal equipment and salon work wear costing £300–£400. You may be able to access a course costs grant for a contribution towards this.

ProgressionThis course can lead to work as a beauty therapist either freelance or in a variety of organisations including salons, health farms, leisure centres and hotels. There is also the chance to progress to further study in complementary therapy, hairdressing, or related subjects.


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Hair and Media Make-up Level 3 DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 5HF HAG CP0R

This course is a natural progression from the Hair and Media Make-up Level 2 course and requires a high level of commitment and motivation. You will study more advanced techniques in theatrical and media combined with specialist colouring and dressing techniques in hairdressing. This qualification will lead you into the world of photo shoots, make-up artistry, film and television.

Entry requirementsHair and Media Make-up Level 2 Diploma, Level 2 functional skills in English, record of attendance displaying a high commitment to attainment, plus a successful interview. You will need to be presentable and have creative ability. It is essential to purchase personal equipment and salon work wear costing £750–£800. You may be able to access a course costs grant for a contribution towards this.

ProgressionYou could progress to employment within the theatrical and media industries or work as a hairdresser either freelance or in a variety of organisations including salons, leisure centres and hotels. You may also wish to progress to further study in hairdressing or beauty therapy.

Hairdressing Level 3 DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 5HF HAG AP0R

This is a progression from the Level 2 hairdressing course which will develop and enhance your knowledge and skills in traditional and modern hairdressing, giving you the ability to create a variety of looks using different techniques. This course combines theory and weekly work experience for hairdressing students. You will expand your knowledge of working in hairdressing and essentials such as health and safety and consulting and advising clients. Our well-equipped commercial salon is the setting for you to perfect your cutting, styling, colouring and creative hairdressing design skills. Upon successful completion you will be in a position to start work or progress to further study.

Entry requirementsYou will need a Level 2 qualification in hairdressing. You will be interviewed and have a practical skills assessment. It is essential to purchase personal equipment and salon work wear costing £300–£350. You may be able to access a course costs grant for a contribution towards this.

ProgressionYou could progress to employment or further study in other areas such as complementary therapy or beauty therapy.


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Motor Vehicle

There are jobs throughout the UK in garages, workshops and dealerships, with large companies that operate their own fleets, bus and coach companies and organisations such as the AA.

The usual route for promotion is from technician to senior technician and then to technical supervisor or diagnostic technician. Technicians may need to move to different garages or organisations to gain experience and skills.

Much of the training takes place in industry standard teaching facilities or on the job, with many employers offering a structured programme such as an apprenticeship. With experience and further qualifications, there is career progression in larger organisations as a technician or to supervisory and management positions.

There are more than 35 million vehicles on UK roads and a high demand for skilled, well-trained technicians. Today’s vehicles are very sophisticated and include a great deal of computerised and electronic systems, so both technology and mechanical skills are essential. Other key skills include an excellent working knowledge of motor vehicles, to be able to communicate well with customers and team members and have a willingness to learn on the job, working quickly and methodically.

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Motor Vehicle

Full-time Course and Apprenticeship Guide 2013–14128 129

Emily HopkinsAdvanced Apprenticeship Vehicle Maintenance and Repair

I came to the College not only for its convenient location but also because of the different courses on offer.

I’ve always wanted to be a mechanic and one day even run my own garage. I’ve completed an NVQ in Engineering and am now on an Advanced Apprenticeship at Mill Road Garage.

At the moment I’ve carried out servicing, suspension and brake jobs. I’m looking forward to working with electronics. I think gaining theoretical skills at college and practical skills in my job will help me to become a great mechanic.

Apprenticeships

Vehicle Body Repair Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 63

Vehicle Mechanics Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 63

Vehicle Paint Operations Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 63

Motor Vehicle Entry Level DiplomaEntry Level Duration: One year Course Code: 6EF MVD AP0R

This course is for those who have not achieved their potential at school and who are looking for a new challenge in a practical working environment. It will suit you if you are interested in working with motor vehicles as well as having good practical skills and a preference for learning by doing rather than through classroom-based activities. Alongside learning the basics of repairing and servicing motor vehicles, you will improve your English and maths skills through work-related activities. You will have the opportunity to gain recognised qualifications in repair and service as well as in literacy and numeracy.

Entry requirementsNo formal qualifications are required. You will need to complete a motor industry standard aptitude assessment before your interview and you will need to demonstrate your interest and commitment.

ProgressionSuccessful completion leads to the Motor Vehicle Level 1 Diploma or an apprenticeship in motor vehicle.

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Motor Vehicle Level 1 DiplomaLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 6EF MVE A00R

This one-year course is for students who are progressing from the entry course or applying with GCSEs. It prepares you for starting out in the motor vehicle industry and is equivalent to the first year of an apprenticeship. You will cover general workplace health and safety as well as servicing, engines and their components, chassis and electrical systems. You will learn to carry out pre-and post-work inspections, as well as improving your English, maths and ICT and other skills to make you more employable.

Entry requirementsGCSE grades of D or above in English Language and maths. You will need to complete a motor industry standard aptitude assessment before your interview and you will need to demonstrate your interest and commitment.

ProgressionEmployment in the motor vehicle industry, an apprenticeship or a relevant Level 2 course such as engineering.

Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code:6EF MVF FP0R

This course is for anyone who already has a Level 1 qualification in Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair and wishes to continue studying without doing an apprenticeship. You will complete three units; routine maintenance (servicing), removing and replacing engine components and removing and replacing electrical units.

Entry requirementsSuccessful completion of Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Level 1 Diploma and functional skills in English, maths and ICT at Level 1.

ProgressionYou could progress on to an apprenticeship in the motor trade.


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Music, Media and

Performing Arts

The majority of the work in the music and performing arts sector involves entertaining people. Creativity and self-confidence are essential skills. In addition, the music industry requires an ability to use digital software.

Many people in the music sector work with record labels, music publishers, audio production, live events and promotion, performers, not-for-profit music organisations as well as education and training providers. Roles can include composing, conducting and performing.

People working in performing arts sector can work in a variety of settings including; theatre, TV and film studios, cruise ships, schools and dance studios.

Music and performing arts are popular and competitive sectors. Many people are attracted to the idea of working in these areas due to the high profile lives of the successful few who make their living as actors, musicians, singers and producers; it can seem a glamorous lifestyle. However, there are many more people working away from the spotlight, making sure performances run smoothly and promoting artists and productions.

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yNicholas Hillsdon Music Technology BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma

I really enjoy music but have never felt creative enough to write or produce my own material. Instead I’ve decided on a career as a music technician and to work alongside musicians to produce their music.

I live in Oxford, but music technology courses are not available in my area. Thankfully Reading College offers my course and I’m happy to commute for it.

It has been great to have access to equipment I’ve never used before and to have the opportunity to practise what we’ve learnt in class in my own time. By gaining the right techniques and learning how to manage recording software, I feel more confident to be able to say to an artist that I could record their music.

Music BTEC Level 1 DiplomaLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 3PF MUK AP0R

This creative programme focuses on the use of specialist computer software, live sound, performance techniques and media production, and offers students an excellent introduction to the music and media industry.

A wide range of music, music technology, video and media related themes will be studied, including live performance skills, sound recording, computer-based music production, live sound, video editing and the music industry.

Entry requirementsSome experience of music and media is required. The ability to play a musical instrument or sing is an advantage but not a necessity. All applicants will be interviewed and will be required to either audition or present some examples of prior music/media technology work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionYou could progress to the Music BTEC Level 2 Diploma.


Music BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 3PF MUM AP0R

The music industry is continuously evolving and developing in new and innovative ways. This course offers learners the opportunity to study a diverse range of music and music technology topics, including performance, DJ technology, the music industry, computer-based music and media software skills, recording and a final major project. Please note, this course is for the beginner to intermediate musician/performer/DJ and is not suitable for those that have no experience in the field of music.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs at grade D or above including English Language or a BTEC Level 1 diploma with a Merit profile and functional skills Level 2). You will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent media related work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required. Applicants should also have some music experience either as performers or as DJs and/or producers.

ProgressionYou could progress to the Music or Music Technology BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma.

Performing Arts BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 3PF PAM AP0R

The Performing Arts Department at Reading College has a growing reputation as one of the most exciting places to study theatre and dance in Berkshire. This Level 2 course offers a practical and creative introduction to the performing arts, providing students with the skills and knowledge to embrace a successful career in the creative industries. Throughout the year students set-up and run their own theatre company, perform in front of an audience, learn how to direct, while also studying a range of performing arts topics including acting techniques, movement, voice, physical theatre, singing, devising and site-specific theatre.

The course is project focused and aims to inspire students to create exciting and innovative performances based on contemporary trends in the performing arts field.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs at grade D or above, including English Language or a BTEC Level 1 diploma with a Merit profile and functional skills at Level 2. All applicants will be interviewed and auditioned. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionYou could progress to the Performing Arts BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma.



Music BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 3PF MUN BP0R

This exciting course develops your understanding of the broad subject of popular music. In year one you will study for a subsidiary diploma, which develops live performance skills both in bands and as a soloist, music theory knowledge and aural (listening) abilities, song-writing and live sound engineering skills. Successful students on this program will be invited to study for the extended diploma which forms year two of the course. This continues these themes but adds sound recording and computer-based music production, knowledge of the music industry and music history, improvisation skills and event planning and staging. Students participate in public performances throughout the course, performing at events both inside and outside college and playing a range of original and cover material.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs grade A*–C including English Language and preferably maths, a higher diploma at grade C or above with functional skills Level 2 or a BTEC Level 2 diploma with a Merit profile and functional skills Level 2 in literacy and numeracy. All applicants will be interviewed and auditioned on their first instrument (including vocals). A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionYou could progress to a degree, foundation degree or higher national diploma in a music/music performance-related subject or enter the music industry at a junior level.

Photography by Shakela Edwards


Music Technology BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 3PF MUN AP0R

On this course you will develop the skills needed to work in the sound, music, broadcasting or film industry. You will also prepare for university courses in music or music technology subjects. Initially in year one you will study for a subsidiary diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

You will study a wide range of music technology related themes, including music production techniques and audio engineering principles, planning and delivering a music product, music sequencing, sound for the moving image and sound creation and manipulation, the sound and music industry, live sound techniques, acoustics and music technology in performance.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs grade A*–C including English Language and preferably maths, a higher diploma at grade C or above with functional skills Level 2 or a BTEC Level 2 diploma with a Merit profile and functional skills Level 2 in literacy and numeracy. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent music technology-related work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionYou could progress on to a degree, foundation degree or higher national diploma in a music technology-related subject or entry to the music industry at a junior level.

Music and Media Technology BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma – Fast TrackLevel 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 3PF MUP CP0R

Developed specifically for adult learners wishing to gain access to higher education or employment in the field, this course enables students to develop the skills needed to work within the sound and music industries.

A wide range of music technology-related themes will be studied, including music production and sound engineering, production planning, sound and music for media, music sequencing, sound creation and manipulation, the sound and music industry, live sound and music technology in performance.

Entry requirementsAs this programme is for adult learners, there are no formal entry requirements. Prior experience of music technology is essential. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of recent music technology-related work. A satisfactory reference is required.

ProgressionStudents who successfully complete the BTEC Level 3 diploma will be able to progress on to a degree, foundation degree or higher national diploma in a music technology-related subject.

Photography by Shakela Edwards



Creative Media Production BTEC Level 3 Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 3PF MDN AP0R

On this course, you will produce a range of drama, documentary, music and animation videos. You will also learn writing, camera, lighting, sound recording and editing skills, alongside studying the fundamental principles of creativity, critical thinking and project management.

The College has excellent facilities for video production; a television studio with a green screen, Mac editing suite, professional cameras and audio recording equipment, lighting kits, gels and reflectors, dolly track, camcorder stabilisers and a jib.

Initially in year one you will study for a subsidiary diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and preferably maths, a higher diploma at grade C or above with Level 2 functional skills, or a BTEC Level 2 Diploma with a Merit profile with Level 2 functional skills. All applicants will be interviewed and should bring along a portfolio of media-related work. A satisfactory reference or school report is required.

ProgressionYou could progress to a degree, foundation degree or higher national diploma in a media-related subject or gain entry in to the industry at junior level. You can build a career as a producer, screenwriter, director, cinematographer, camera operator or sound mixer.

Performing Arts BTEC Level 3 Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 3PF PAN AP0R

The Performing Arts Department at Reading College has a growing reputation as one of the most exciting places to study theatre and dance in Berkshire. During the first year you will join like-minded creative students in practical workshops exploring core performance skills including acting techniques, dance techniques, voice and singing, movement and choreographic principles, as well as looking at specific styles of performance such as musical theatre, physical theatre and site-specific performance. The second year builds on the first, with a more in-depth exploration of either acting or dance, classical theatre, street theatre, contemporary dance technique and choreography. In performing arts business you will learn how to set-up and run arts and community projects, get funding and manage your own arts practice. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsA minimum of four GCSEs at grade A*- C including English Language and preferably maths or a higher diploma at grade C or above with functional skills Level 2 or a BTEC Level 2 diploma with a Merit profile and functional skills Level 2. A satisfactory reference or school report is required. Applicants will be asked to attend and successfully complete an interview and workshop audition.

ProgressionYou could progress to jobs in the industry (creative, production, community, administration) at an introductory level. Alternatively you could undertake a foundation degree or degree level course, or attend drama, dance or stage school.


Performing Arts BTEC Level 3 Diploma – Fast TrackLevel 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 3PF PAP CP0R

The Performing Arts department at Reading College has a growing reputation as one of the most exciting places to study theatre and dance in Berkshire. Developed specifically for adult learners wishing to gain access to higher education, this innovative course enables students to develop the skills needed to work within the expanding performing arts industry.

You will study a wide range of performing arts-related themes, including acting techniques and rehearsal skills, jazz dance, physical theatre, site-specific performance, audition techniques, contemporary and classical theatre.

Entry requirementsAs this programme is for adult learners, there are no formal entry requirements though prior experience of performing arts and a satisfactory reference are required. Applicants will be asked to attend and successfully complete an interview and workshop audition.

ProgressionYou could progress to a foundation degree or degree level course, or vocational drama, dance or stage school.



Plumbing, Gas and

Heating

Gas service technicians or gas fitters work in customers’ homes installing, servicing and repairing gas systems and appliances. The job involves installing and connecting appliances, carrying out maintenance checks, testing devices, searching for and repairing gas leaks and replacing and repairing faulty parts.

Much of the training takes place in industry standard teaching facilities or on the job, with many employers offering a structured programme such as an apprenticeship. With experience and further qualifications, there is career progression in larger organisations to supervisory and management positions. Many workers in the industry are self-employed and work towards building a well-earned reputation and successful business.

There are around 50,000 plumbers working in the UK, with about half working in domestic heating. Plumbers install, service and repair water drainage systems in all kinds of buildings from homes or commercial buildings such as office blocks, hospitals or factories.


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Alban ZekaDomestic Heating Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

I came to college because I decided I wanted to work in gas after becoming interested in my cousin’s job as a gas fitter.

I’ve completed several qualifications such as a certificate in heating and ventilation and am now on an advanced apprenticeship. It’s good to learn new things and to get the qualifications I need for the future.

As well as giving me new skills, the apprenticeship has boosted my confidence to work on my own. I plan to run my own business in Reading and the surrounding area.

Apprenticeships

Plumbing and Domestic Heating Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 63

Plumbing and Domestic Heating Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – see page 63

Industrial Commercial Heating and Ventilation Level 2 Apprenticeship – see page 63

Heating and Ventilation Level 1 DiplomaLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 6CF PBE C00R

This course is suited to school leavers who are interested in a career in heating and plumbing. It introduces the skills and knowledge required in the trade while giving you the opportunity to gain confidence and improve your English and maths. You will learn about the installation and maintenance of plumbing and heating systems through a combination of practical experience and theory.

Entry requirementsNo qualifications are required. You will attend an interview and demonstrate your interest in the trade and your commitment to full-time study. You will need to successfully complete an aptitude test to measure your ability to think logically.

ProgressionYou could progress to a full-time Level 2 programme or employment in the industry and part-time study to gain NVQ Level 2 and Level 3, which may be achieved through an apprenticeship.

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Heating and Ventilation Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 6CF PBE A00R

This course is for aspiring plumbers who achieve grades D and above in their GCSEs or who have progressed successfully from the Level 1 Diploma. It focuses on more complex water, heating and drainage systems, demanding a higher level of knowledge and more advanced skills. You will learn through a combination of practical and theoretical work, using the latest equipment in our workshop and taught by our well-qualified staff.

Entry requirementsFour GCSE grades A*- D. In your interview we expect evidence of your motivation to succeed and you will need to complete an aptitude test to measure your ability to think logically.

ProgressionMany students go on to employment in the industry, including apprenticeships (for which this course counts as the first year). You can also continue your studies and gain NVQ Level 2 and 3 in a construction or building services occupation.


Plumbing, Gas and

Post-16 Centre at Reading Girls’ School

The centre’s approach is to provide excellent teaching with a high level of individual support to encourage students to achieve at their best. The experienced and dedicated tutors work hard to develop students personal and workplace skills so they can move on to a higher level course or into employment.

The purpose-built centre has industry standard hairdressing and beauty salons, a quiet area and library, five classrooms and an on-site nursery. The Reflections hair and therapy salons offer a wide range of professional services to the general public alongside training.

Reading College works in partnership with Reading Girls’ School to run the Post-16 Centre on-site at the school. The centre is a modern, stimulating and supportive learning environment and offers relevant learning programmes to young men and women. It is a place where every student is given the respect, support and motivation they need to raise their aspirations and achieve success.


Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy Entry Level 3 Certificate Entry Level 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 9FF REM D00R

You will study a range of topics including: ensuring your actions reduce risk to health and safety, assisting with salon reception duties, contributing to effective working relationships, shampooing, conditioning and styling hair, assisting with technical services, presenting a professional image in the salon, preparing and maintaining the work area and skin care.

Entry requirementsYou will need a successful interview and demonstrate that you have or are working towards Entry Level 3 literacy and numeracy in a skills test. You should be presentable and have creative ability.

ProgressionThis course provides a good grounding if you want to progress on to the Level 1 in hairdressing or beauty therapy or into employment.

Hairdressing Level 1 Certificate Level 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 2SF RGJ A00R

You will study a range of topics including: introduction to the hair and beauty sector, promoting a professional image, an introduction to styling, an introduction to plaiting and twisting, ensuring your actions reduce risk to health and safety, assisting with salon reception duties, contributing to effective working relationships, shampooing, conditioning and styling hair and assisting with technical services.

Entry requirementsYou will need a successful interview and demonstrate that you have or are working towards Level 1 literacy and numeracy in a skills test. You should be presentable and have creative ability.

ProgressionThis course provides a good grounding if you want to progress on to the Level 1 diploma or Level 2 studies in hairdressing and beauty therapy, an apprenticeship or employment.



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Hairdressing Level 1 Diploma Level 1 Duration: One year Course code: 2SF RGE E00R

You will study a range of topics including: introduction to colour, creating an image, health and safety, reception duties and the art of dressing hair.

Entry requirementsYou will need a Level 1 Hairdressing Certificate, however if you have some hairdressing experience you could apply for this course. You will need a successful interview and demonstrate that you have or are working towards Level 1 literacy and numeracy in a skills test. You should be presentable and have creative ability.

Progression routes: This course provides a good grounding if you want to progress on to the Level 2 in hairdressing and beauty therapy, an apprenticeship or employment.

Beauty Therapy Level 1 Certificate Level 1 Duration: One year Course code: 2SF RGJ B00R

This qualification is an introduction to the beauty sector. You will study both theory and practice of beauty therapy, including ensuring your actions reduce risk to health and safety, presenting a professional image in the salon, basic make-up, basic skin care and basic manicure. You will also have opportunities to achieve identified specialist modules to enhance your practical skills. This course will also include the Employability NCFE Level 1 Certificate.

Entry requirementsYou will need a successful interview and demonstrate that you have or are working towards Level 1 literacy and numeracy in a skills test. You should be presentable and have creative ability.

ProgressionThis course provides a good grounding if you want to progress on to a Level 2 course in hairdressing and beauty therapy,an apprenticeship or employment.

Business BTEC Level 2 Diploma Level 2 Duration: One year Course code: 2SF RGM BP0R

You will acquire technical and employability skills, knowledge and understanding which are transferable and will enable you to meet all kinds of challenges in your future career. Other key areas covered are interpersonal skills and customer service. Units include: business purposes, business organisations, financial forecasting, people in organisations, personal selling in business, customer relations in business, consumer rights, business enterprise, working in business teams and marketing plans. The way the course is assessed means that you receive feedback on your progress throughout the course, as you provide evidence of your achievement. Evidence is generated through a range of activities including assignment and project work, case studies, workplace assessment, role play and oral presentations.

Entry requirementsFour GCSE grades D or above including English Language, or equivalent qualifications.

Progression You could progress to the Business BTEC Level 3 Diploma or seek employment in business administration.


Childcare Level 1 Certificate Level 1 Duration: One year Course code: 9FF FPE G00R

You will have the opportunity to learn new skills in the classroom and then develop them in the on-site nursery. You will study a range of units which include communication skills with children, creative activities for young children, books, stories, poems and rhymes for children, planning for the physical and emotional care needs of children. You will be expected to undertake a work placement during the course.

Entry requirementsYou will need a successful interview and demonstrate that you have or are working towards Level 1 literacy and numeracy in a skills test. You should be presentable and be willing to undertake a work placement.

Progression routesThis course provides a good grounding if you wish to progress on to a Level 2 qualification in childcare, an apprenticeship or employment.

Children and Young People’s Workforce Level 2 Certificate Level 2 Duration: One year Course code: 2SF RGF AP0R

You will have the opportunity to learn new skills in the classroom and then develop them in the on-site nursery and during your work experience. You will study both mandatory and optional units. The mandatory units are child and young person development, safeguarding the welfare of children and young people, paediatric emergency first aid and contributing to children and young people’s health and safety. The optional units are supporting children and young people at meal and snack times and supporting children and young people’s play and leisure. Learning takes place at college three days per week and you will be required to attend a work placement two days per week, fulfilling at least 300 hours at a work placement. Assessments will mainly take place at your work placement and through the production of a portfolio of evidence.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at grade D-G and a successful two day trial work experience placement.

Progression routesThis course provides a good grounding if you wish to progress on to a Level 3 qualification in childcare, an apprenticeship or employment.



147

Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 1 Certificate Level 1 Duration: One year Course code: 9FF FPE T00R

During the year you will study the following units: the history and development of tourism, understanding customer service in travel and tourism, health and safety when at a destination, the role and responsibility of cabin crew and planning and taking part in an event. You will also study a range of employability units with functional skills qualifications in English, maths and IT. There will not be an exam at the end of the year. You will complete a portfolio of work that includes the taught units.

Entry requirements: You don’t need qualifications to join this pathway. However you will need to have a successful interview with a member of the teaching team and a satisfactory school reference.

Progression This course provides a good grounding if you want to progress on to the Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 2 Diploma, or other relevant Level 2 courses.

Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 2 Diploma Level 2 Duration: One year Course code: 2SF RGM AP0R

You will study the following units: the UK travel and tourism sector, understanding customer service in travel and tourism, understanding the nature and effects of world travel, developing customer service skills in travel and tourism, UK tourism destinations, European holiday destinations, preparing for employment in travel and tourism, developing employability skills for travel and tourism, organising a travel and tourism study visit, exploring airports and airlines and interpersonal skills for holiday representatives.

Entry requirements: Four GCSE grades D or above including English Language, or equivalent qualifications.

ProgressionThis course provides a good grounding if you want to progress on to the Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 3 Diploma.



149

Public Services

Technology is being used more often, particularly in intelligence gathering. This means there are more office-based roles, but most work involves a great deal of challenging, physical outdoor work, which is often the reason why people choose to work in this sector. Shift work and long hours are common, especially during operations or exercises.

Employers included the police force, NHS, the army, RAF, prison service and fire brigade.

Skills gained in the uniformed public services are highly valued by commercial and public sector employers. Many transfer into private security or specialist jobs, utilising their military or police knowledge.

Over 1.2 million people work in security and uniformed services, playing a vital role in helping to protect people and property. There are opportunities for both front-line personnel and support staff. Common sense, confidence and communication skills are essential. Part of the recruitment processes for the ambulance, police and armed forces involve assessing physical fitness and leadership qualities. Employers look for people who think quickly, read situations accurately and work well within a team. Training requirements depend on the occupation and the level of entry.



Public Services

151

Public Services BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5TF PVM AP0R

If you aspire to a career in one of the uniformed military or emergency public services such as the army, navy, Royal Marines, RAF, police, fire, ambulance or prison service in a front-line or support role, then this is the course for you. The course combines classroom-based activities with learning through practical and outdoor activities. Skills for public service work are combined with exploring social issues, developing your personal fitness, playing sport and taking part in various outdoor activities. You will develop your English and maths through functional skills and you will build your IT skills by completing the various elements of the course. These skills will help you complete your coursework and prepare for further study or employment.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs grade D-E including English Language and maths, or achievement on the Level 1 Foundation Pathway, including functional skills at Level 1.

ProgressionEmployment in the uniformed public services or similar, a Level 3 course such as the Public Services BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma or other advanced level courses.

Jamie Foster Public Services BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma

I plan to join the police force, so I wanted to gain a relevant qualification that will help me with my career.

The course works for me because it is coursework based and has plenty of practical elements so there is less time spent sat at a desk. I’ve been on some great trips as part of the leadership and team unit.

I have gained people skills as well as an academic qualification which will benefit me in any career as well as in the Police force.

I’m also planning on gaining some work experience by volunteering at a Police station which will help boost my application.

Public Services Foundation PathwayLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 5TF PV EBP0R

This pathway is for those who want to explore a career in the public services through a full-time college course and would benefit from starting at Level 1. You may need support with English, maths, ICT and personal development. The course will introduce you to a variety of public services and the level of fitness that will prepare you for the range of tests that are used by each of the services. The course combines classroom-based activities with learning through practical and outdoor activities. There are a number of starting points throughout the year.


ProgressionYou can progress on to Public Services BTEC Level 2 Diploma or or another relevant Level 2 course.

Case Study


Public Services (Uniformed) BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 5TF PVQ D00R

This advanced level course aims to provide you with the knowledge and skills to position you well to start a career in one of the uniformed public services. The broad range of topics include citizenship, the law, crime and human behaviour. The course gives you the opportunity to develop your personal organisational, leadership and team work skills. Fitness, exercise and off-site trips are part of the broad learning package. You will develop your English, maths and ICT skills to help complete your course work and prepare for further study or employment. Initially in year one you will study for a subsidiary diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsFive GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language and maths or a BTEC Level 2 Diploma at Merit or above with functional skills at Level 2.

ProgressionYou could apply to the armed forces and emergency services, such as the police, ambulance or fire service. Progression to higher education is also a popular route.


Public Services

153

Science

BTEC Applied Science qualifications are designed to give students the opportunity to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life.

You will have the opportunity to enter employment in the science sector or progress onto a vocational qualification such as BTEC Higher Nationals in Applied Biology and Applied Chemistry, health-related or other science-related qualifications.

These qualifications will appeal to students who prefer portfolio-based assessment covering a variety of scientific investigations. The qualifications cover a range of areas including laboratory science, forensic science, medical science, environmental and biological science and chemical and physical science.

While at Reading College, you will have the opportunity of participating in a range of enrichment activities to enhance your learning. For example you will participate in National Science and Engineering Week during which you will contribute to hands-on science workshops, promoting the study of science to other students in the college. You will also visit the national Big Bang Exhibition at The National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, where you will be able to find out about the wide range of careers available in the science industry.

The Sector Skills Council for Science is known as SEMTA; Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies. They represent over 130,000 businesses and over two million employees. The bioscience sector of the council has a large demand for highly-skilled technicians in the following areas; in vivo sciences (physiology, pharmacology, toxicology and pathology), clinical research, medicinal and analytical chemistry, engineering and maths and statistics. Employers within this area are looking to recruit young people with practical, applied science skills.


Science

155

Yusra IbrahimApplied Science BTEC Level 2 Diploma

I chose this course because I love science but don’t have a GCSE, so wanted to study on a course that would help me get the right qualification for the future.

I really enjoy carrying out my own experiments and investigations. From being on my course I now have the knowledge and responsibility to handle hazardous chemicals.

Alongside my course I also studied English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Level 1. It has been really helpful and has improved my confidence in English.

I am progressing onto the College’s Applied Science Level 3 Diploma, after which I would like to study pharmacy at university.

See also:

A-level Biology – see page 39

A-level Chemistry – see page 40

A-level Physics – see page 46

Applied Science BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 2SF SCF A00R

Would you like to become a forensic scientist, drug researcher or medical physics technician but do not yet have five GCSEs at grade C or above? Then the BTEC in Applied Science is for you. Through a wide range of activities and methods of assessment (practicals, role plays, reports), this course will develop the skills you need to work in the exciting fields of science, technology, engineering and maths.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at Grade D or above including English and maths. All applicants will be interviewed. We may ask you to complete initial assessments in English and maths to make sure that you will succeed on the course.

ProgressionYou could progress onto Level 3 courses including the Applied Science BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma. The BTEC Level 2 diploma can also lead you to a range of training routes in technical areas of science.

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Applied Science BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 2SF SCG B00R

To work in the science industry, you need a qualification that enables you to develop the knowledge and practical scientific skills that are relevant to employers. This course will give you the opportunity to acquire a range of technical, employabilitypersonal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life. Units within the qualification cover areas of laboratory science, forensic science, medical science, environmental science and biological, chemical and physical science. You will work in the science laboratories and will be taught by our experienced specialist staff.

Entry requirementsYou will need a Merit in the Applied Science BTEC Level 2 Diploma or five GCSEs at Grade C or above including English, maths and sciences. We will interview you to make sure that you will succeed on the course.

ProgressionYou could progress on to employment with organisations that use science. These can include roles such as quality control technician, medical physics technician, or scientific editors and proof-readers. You could also progress on to higher education in science and health-related subjects with an honours degree, foundation degree or a higher national diploma in applied biology or applied chemistry.


Science

157

Sport

Career opportunities in this sector vary from coaching and instructing, leisure management, physiotherapy to performing at a professional level in sports such as football, gymnastics, tennis and athletics.

Employers include large leisure companies, local authorities, sports teams and clubs, leisure centres, and health and fitness clubs.

In partnership with Rivermead Leisure Complex, sports students have access to excellent facilities including sports hall, astro turf, dance studios and cardio, free weight and kinesis gyms. The College also work with Reading Rockets to provide basketball opportunities to students. The Basketball Academy helps bridge the gap for players wanting to balance their education with a high level of performance in the sport.

In England, the sports, recreation, health, fitness and outdoor pursuits sectors employ about 375,000 people. An ability to communicate well with people and a helpful attitude are important in this industry alongside organisational and teamwork skills.


Sport

159

I came to Reading after changing colleges and am so glad that I did; I’m achieving better than I ever have done in education.

The course is great, it has really fired my enthusiasm for sport and shown me that it is possible to turn my interest into a career. The teaching is excellent and my tutors are always available to help.

I’ve also completed my Level 1 football coaching course at the College and am now working on Level 2, which alongside my sports qualification will help my career aim to become a football coach.

Sport Foundation PathwayLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 9FF FPE S00R

This pathway is for those who want to explore a career in sport through a full-time college course and would benefit from starting at Level 1 and may need support with English, maths, ICT and personal development. The course will introduce you to the sport and leisure industries and will cover some elements of sports science while also giving you the chance to practise sport regularly and learn how to coach others. You will take part in practical activities and assessment is continuous rather than by exam. There are numerous starting points throughout the year.


ProgressionYou may be able to progress to a Level 2 course in sport or another relevant Level 2 course.

Sport BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5TF SPM AP0R

This course is aimed at students who wish to gain a general knowledge of the sports industry, and combines practical sporting activity with sports theory. You will learn about the sports industry, participate in sporting activities, and study the functions of the body as well as health, safety and preventing injury. You will develop your English, maths and ICT skills to help you to complete your coursework and prepare for further study or employment.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs grade D or above, including English Language and maths or achievement on the Level 1 Foundation Pathway including functional skills at Level 1.

ProgressionYou could find employment in the sport, leisure and recreation industry at junior level, or go into training or an apprenticeship. You could progress to a Level 3 course such as the BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diplomas in Sport – Performance and Excellence or Sport and Exercise Science.

Josh JulianSport Performance and Excellence BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/ Extended Diploma

Case Study


Sport and Exercise Science BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 5TF SPQ J00R

The course looks at applying science to the human body in sport. It also includes the management and organisation of the sports industry. You will study units in anatomy, physiology, fitness testing, sports injuries, sports psychology, nutrition and coaching.

Theory sessions are balanced with practical sport and coaching sessions. You will develop your English, maths and ICT skills to help you to complete your coursework and prepare for further study or employment. There will be a number of opportunities throughout the course to be involved in some work experience in both schools and the leisure environment.

Entry requirementsFive GCSEs grade A*- C including English Language, maths and Science and ideally PE, or a Sport BTEC Level 2 diploma at Merit or above with functional skills at Level 2. Other qualifications or sporting experience may be considered.

ProgressionYou could progress to employment in the sport and leisure industry, or on to higher education to a relevant foundation degree or degree course.

Sport Performance and Excellence BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 5TF SPQ G00R

This course is designed for those who wish to take up a career in sport. The course looks at the planning of training, and the assessment of competitors in various sports. In addition to studying the theory of performance, coaching and fitness, you will also develop your own performance and sports skills. You will improve your English, maths and ICT skills as a natural outcome of your assessed coursework and this will help to prepare you for further study or employment. There will be a number of opportunities throughout the course to be involved in some work experience in both schools and the sports industry.

Entry requirementsFive GCSE grades A*- C including English Language, maths and ideally PE, or a Sport BTEC Level 2 Diploma at Merit or above with functional skills at Level 2.

ProgressionSuccessful completion can lead to a relevant degree or foundation degree course or to employment in the sport and leisure industry.


Sport

161

Travel and

Tourism

Some work as group leaders or holiday reps, organising activities and entertainment and working with both adults and children. They may act as a host or hostess by greeting new guests, answering enquiries, sorting out problems and making announcements. Holiday centre managers can be responsible for managing the centre as a whole or, in a larger centre, may have responsibilities for just one area of operations, such as catering or entertainment.

Within this industry there are more than two million people working throughout the UK, with many jobs relating to the travel, tourism and holiday sectors concentrated in towns and regions that are popular tourist destinations.It is important to enjoy working with people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures and be interested in a wide range of subjects, including history and the arts. Seasonal work is common and working hours usually involve shifts, including evenings, weekends and public holidays, which can be the busiest times. Many jobs offer the opportunity for promotion to supervisory or managerial levels. There are plenty of opportunities to work abroad and in some jobs it is possible to become self-employed.


Travel and Tourism

163

Case Study

I completed the Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 2 course at the college’s Sixth Form Centre at Reading Girls’ School last year and came to the College to progress onto Level 3. It has meant that my daughter can stay at the onsite nursery at Reading Girls’ School where she is very happy.

I enjoy studying travel and tourism as it is full of knowledge about destinations and organisations from around the world. I believe that the new knowledge and skills I have gained will help my career goal to work in a travel agency.

Travel and Tourism Foundation PathwayLevel 1 Duration: One year Course Code: 9FF FPE T00R

This pathway is for those who want to explore a career in travel and tourism through a full-time college course and may need some support with English, maths, ICT and personal development. An exciting and popular choice with students, this course investigates the development of the industry from the 1900s. You will compare different travel destinations, review career options in the industry and plan and organise your own trips. You will take part in practical activities and assessment is continuous rather than by exam. There are numerous starting points throughout the year.

Entry requirementsYou do not need qualifications to join this course. However you will need a successful interview with a member of the teaching team to show your commitment to full-time study and your interest in the subject. We will also expect a satisfactory school report. As part of your interview we will assess your levels of English and maths and advise you of the most appropriate level to study.

ProgressionYou could progress to a Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 2 or another relevant Level 2 course.

Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 2 DiplomaLevel 2 Duration: One year Course Code: 5TF TTM AP0R

This diploma provides an introduction to the travel and tourism industry. It is a work-related course which begins to prepare you for work or for progression on to the Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma. You are introduced to a range of topics including UK and European destinations, planning visits, customer service and marketing and you will benefit from study visits during the course. You will develop your English, maths and ICT skills to help you to complete your coursework and prepare for further study or employment. You will need to be organised, self-motivated and diligent to complete this course. It will involve elements of self-study as well as team work.

Entry requirementsFour GCSEs at grade D and above, including English Language, a general foundation course Merit or above, or 48 TRAC OCN credits plus functional skills in English and maths at Level 1.

ProgressionSuccessful completion can lead to a relevant Level 3 course such as the Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma or employment in the travel and tourism industry.

Shannon CroninTravel and Tourism BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma


Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended DiplomaLevel 3 Duration: Two years Course Code: 5TF TTG A00R

This advanced course covers all aspects of the travel and tourism industry and is designed for people keen to progress directly into employment in the industry or to higher education. The course includes topics such as investigating the travel and tourism industry, UK and overseas destinations, customer service in travel and tourism, the business of travel and tourism, holiday representatives and handling air passengers.

You will develop your English, maths and ICT skills to help you to complete your course work and prepare for further study or employment. You will need to be organised, self-motivated and diligent to complete this course. It will involve elements of self-study as well as team work. Initially in year one you will study for a subsidiary diploma. Successful students will be invited to study for the extended diploma which they will complete in year two of the course.

Entry requirementsFive GCSE grades A*- C including English Language, or a BTEC Level 2 diploma at Merit or above with functional skills in English and ideally maths at Level 2.

ProgressionSuccessful completion can lead to a relevant foundation degree or honours degree or employment in the UK and overseas in retail and business travel, tour operations, attractions and airlines/airports.

Travel and Tourism BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma – Fast TrackLevel 3 Duration: One year Course Code: 5TF TTP A00R

This course is suited to adult learners looking to enter or progress within the travel and tourism industry. It is an integrated course encompassing all aspects of travel and tourism from worldwide destinations to customer service. In addition to developing your knowledge of the industry, you will carry out research on various companies. The course will also allow you to develop your employability skills such as teamwork and customer service. You will need to be organised, self-motivated and diligent to complete this course. It will involve elements of self-study as well as team work.

Entry requirementsIdeally you need previous experience of the travel and tourism industry. This course is for adult learners with a good level of written English, equivalent to GCSE grade C or above.

ProgressionSuccessful completion can lead to employment in a range of travel and tourism opportunities in the UK and overseas such as tour operators, retail and business travel or airlines. Many students progress on to a foundation or honours degree.


Travel and Tourism

165

IndexAAccess courses 48 - 55Accounting 38, 59, 76Acting 41, 132, 135, 138, 139Additional learning support 15Administration 59, 76Application form In backApplying (how to) 31Apprenticeships 27, 56 - 63Armed forces 150 - 153Art and design 50, 64 - 71AS and A-levels 36 - 47

BBarbering 62Beauty therapy 62, 122, 124, 126, 145 - 146Biology 39, 55, 154 - 157Bricklaying 61, 99Bus travel 33Business 39, 51, 59 – 60, 72 – 79, 146

CCar maintenance 63, 128 - 131Care 52 – 53, 60 – 61, 80 - 85Care to Learn 33Careers advice 12, 14Carpentry 62, 99 - 100Catering 61, 86 - 91Chaplaincy 14Chemistry 40, 55, 154 - 157Childcare (costs) 33Childcare (courses) 60 – 61, 80 – 85, 147Computing 61, 92 - 95Construction 61 – 62, 96 - 101Contents 1Counselling services 14Course level guide 23 - 26

DDance 41, 132, 135, 138 - 139Decorating 62, 99 - 100Design 50, 64 - 71Directions to college 35Drama 41, 132, 135, 138 - 139

EEmergency services 150 - 153Engineering 62, 102 - 107English for adults 108 - 113English as a Foreign Language (EFL) 111 English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) 110English Language/Literature 42, 112Enrichment activities 13Enterprise 28, 78 – 79Equality and Diversity 15Extended Project 47

FFacilities 6 - 9Fashion and textiles 50, 64 - 71Feedback 4, 10Fees 32 - 33Film 45, 138Finance (courses) 38, 59, 76Financial support 32 - 33Fine art 50, 64 - 71Foundation degrees 28Foundation pathways 66, 74, 82, 89, 94, 99, 116, 117,

122, 145 – 146, 160, 164Functional skills 13

GGCSEs 112Geography 43Glossary 21Government and politics 43

HHairdressing 62 – 63, 120 127, 145 - 146Health studies 52 – 53, 60 – 61, 80 - 85Heating and ventilation 140 - 143Higher education 28History 44, 53Horticulture 117Hospitality 61, 86 - 91How to find us 35How to apply 31Humanities 53, 43 - 44

IInformation for parents 22International students 19IT/ICT 57, 73, 83, 159 - 164


LLaw 18Learner support 14 - 15Learners with learning difficulties and/or disabilities

15, 114 - 118Library 9

MMap 35Maths for adults 108 - 113 Mathematics (A-level/GCSE) 45, 112 Mechanics 63, 128 - 131Media studies 45, 138Motor vehicle 63, 128 - 131Music 132 - 137Music technology 137

NNursing/midwifery (Access) 52

OOpen evenings 34

PPainting and decorating 62, 99 - 100Parents – information for 18Performing arts 41, 132, 135, 138 - 139Philosophy 46Photography 50, 64 - 71Physics 46, 55, 154 – 157Plastering 62, 99, 101Plumbing 140 - 143Police 150 – 153Professional cookery 61, 86 - 91Professional standards 17Psychology 47, 54Public services 150 - 153

RRadio station 7Raising participation age 19Reading Girls’ School (Post-16 Centre) 144 - 148Restaurant (The Kitchen) 6Retail 59, 75

SSalons (The Salon) 6Science 39, 46, 53, 55, 154 - 157Sixth Form Centre 36Secretarial 59, 76Social work (Access) 53Sociology 47Sport 8, 158 - 161Student life 13Student reps 10Student services 14 – 15, 34Students’ Union 10Support for students 14 – 15, 34

TTeaching (Access) 52Teaching assistants 82Theatre studies 41, 132, 135, 138 - 139Travel and tourism 148, 162 - 165

VVehicle repair 63, 128 – 131Volunteering 10

WWood trades 62, 99 - 100Work preparation 117


Full-time Course and Apprenticeship Guide 2013–14 reading-college.ac.uk [email protected] 0800 371 434168 PB

Notes

For the latest college news and to find out more about our courses visit our website: reading-college.ac.uk

Kings Road, Reading RG1 4HJ

Switchboard: 0118 955 4300

Course enquiries: 0800 371 434

Website: reading-college.ac.uk

Email: [email protected]

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Reading College Full time Prospectus 2013-14

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