Fircroft College

Access to Higher Education - Course Content

All Access Diploma Courses have a compulsory requirement of one unit of Maths and four units of English. These subjects are introduced at the start of the course but how much time you spend in classes will depend on the results of Initial Assessments (part of the application process). The curriculum for each year is finalised in July for the next September; a general overview of which follows.

At the beginning of the course, students take all three subjects of History and Social Policy, World Literature and Sociology and during the first term a decision on which two to focus on will be taken. For those students who need GCSE Maths for a career or degree programme, there is an optional programme which again is dependent on the results of Initial Assessments.

Sociology

Sociology is focused on understanding who we are and how we relate to society. Some key themes explored are socialisation, social class, changes to the family unit, understanding crime and deviance. Alongside these, there are units on sociological theories and research methods. The balance between contemporary examples and sociological theories is brought together through reading and class discussions where learners develop academic skills in and subject knowledge.

History and Social Policy

A historical look at the changing political, economic and social relationships between African, Asian, British and Caribbean culture. We look at the structural links that brought these varied cultures closer together and focus on how European political and economic power expanded and became dominant. An understanding of political, social and cultural aspects of social change is included in this subject where the topics of dictatorship, welfare provision or poverty may be included. The subject is brought to life through reading and classroom discussions, lectures and film viewings.

World Literature in English

This subject develops a sound understanding and skills in analysing Literature using poetry, the novel, the short story and film. Drawing from texts of contemporary and classic British, African/ American and Caribbean writers, themes such as cultural identity and gender are explored alongside an understanding of the role of the writer. Class discussions and reading with some lectures are used.

You may also have the option of a Placement with one of the college’s Voluntary and Community sector partners and some teaching around Social Work. A research project may also be offered to students capable of working independently.

Learners quickly become more confident in what they can achieve. Tutors are very knowledgeable about their subject. Tutors make good use of learning materials to promote and celebrate diversity.

Adult Learning Inspectors