Courses

SCQF Level 4

Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course will give you good all-round knowledge, skills and understanding of the history and use of British Sign Language (BSL) and has been designed to appeal to both hearing and deaf learners.

This course will help you develop your language skills and enable you to communicate with British Sign Language users in various contexts. You will also develop your understanding of how sign languages work, and how they differ from spoken and written languages. It will also enhance your understanding of Scotland’s Deaf Community, its history, people and culture.

If you already use British Sign Language, this course will help develop your ability to communicate clearly, think critically and to use your own language creatively.

This course includes:

• an understanding of simple and straightforward information expressed in British Sign Language
• the ability to express information in a simple and straightforward monologue using British Sign Language
• conversational skills using British Sign Language
• the ability to adapt to the regional varieties of British Sign Language
• the ability to use appropriate cultural conventions in British Sign Language
• understanding and use of a visual and spatial language modality (ie. sign linguistics)
• knowledge of specific historical events that have shaped the development of British Sign Language
• knowledge of the diverse experiences of members of the Deaf Community

SCQF Level 6

Available to: S5, S6

This FA in Business Skills helps you discover what a career in business would be like, and if it’s right for you.

You will:

• try different business administration roles
• shadow experienced staff or undertake special project
• build the practical skills and experience

On successful completion you will achieve a Foundation Apprenticeship (Group Award) in Business Services at SCQF Level 6, which includes:

• Four units from the SVQ in Business and Administration at SCQF Level 6
• A unit in Contemporary Business Issues at SCQF Level 6
• A National Progression Award in Business with Information Technology at SCQF Level 6
• A Work Placement Unit at SCQF Level 6

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

This PDA covers the key areas of Business and Finance which will enable you to build the skills and knowledge needed to progress to a higher level of study in the Business and Finance subject areas.

You will:

• develop your knowledge and skills required for employment in a business environment
• develop study skills
• develop transferable skills including Core Skills to the levels sought by employers
• adopt an innovative and creative approach to your work and be able to respond quickly to the challenges posed by changes in the business environment

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course allows you to focus on the unique knowledge and skills required for capturing and editing sound, image, and video.

During the course you will have the opportunity to follow a development lifecycle from planning through to design, and then on to creation and editing.

There are some written assessments relating to the theory behind Audio, Moving Images and Still Images. The practical element of the NPA requires written detail relating to the planning through to the creation of the portfolio.

Units include:

• Digital Media: Audio
• Digital Media: Moving Images
• Digital Media: Still Images

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

Esports is a rapidly growing industry worth billions worldwide offering a wide variety of jobs including competitors, shoutcasters (hosts), analysts/coaches, admins/referees, content creators, marketing, social media managers, and more.

This course provides an overview of the Esports industry with a focus on Game Performance and Event Management.

You will:

• look at the history of Esports and how to get into the industry
• look at gameplay styles and equipment required
• organise and host an event of your own

SCQF Level 4
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course will enable you to develop knowledge and understanding of a range of construction disciplines as well as technical and transferable skills to support your employment prospects.

A project involving local employers will be carried out using the skills from all the trades that you will learn.

This course includes:

• Brickwork: An introduction
• Carpentry and Bench Joinery: An introduction
• An introduction to Plumbing and Electrical Skills
• Understanding Industry
• Personal Development: Self and Work

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course will enable you to gain understanding of different aspects of mental health and develop your knowledge of the connectivity of the body and mind. You will also look at resources and be encouraged to develop you existing skills in communication and listening which are key to their progression within education and employment.  

The course comprises of:

• Mental Health
  You will explore the psychology of various mental health conditions, and the effects other factors can have on this including trauma, substances and addictions. 
• Body Systems and Emotional Regulation
  You will explore different body systems in relation to mental health looking at the physiology of this and the impact and connectivity of mental health and emotion on the body.
• Coping Strategies
  Exploring positive and negative coping strategies to mental health you will examine different resources available to support you personally and within the wider community.
• Active Listening and Communication
  You will explore what active listening is and the importance of effective communication. You will develop your interpersonal skills in line with mental health alongside examining the importance and impact this can have on employability and progression.  

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

Whether you are involved in youth theatre, want the opportunity to perform or interested in a career in the performing arts, this course will build your confidence and communication skills to prepare you for your next steps.

You will prepare for a performance in front of a live audience, work creatively with text and develop voice, movement acting and stagecraft skills. You will also work co-operatively in teams, respond to direction, develop self awareness and a professional attitude. 

Topics covered:

• Theatre Skills in Performance:
  You will study the roles of the director/actor and be introduced to stagecraft. You will apply the skills and knowledge in a production in front of an audience and evaluate the process
  
  
• Professional Theatre in Context:
  You will investigate two styles/genres of professional theatre and the elements within them. Explore the role of the theatre production team in creating a production and evaluate the effectiveness of two contrasting professional theatrical productions

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This FA in Creative and Digital Media helps you to discover what a career in the creative industries is like, and if its right for you. 

Supported by Out of the Darkness Theatre Company (ODTC), you will:

• try out creative roles
• shadow experienced professionals or undertake a special project
• build the practical skills and experience

You will complete the following units along with a work placement:

• An Introduction to Creative Industries in Scotland
• Understanding a Creative Client Brief
• Understanding the Creative Media Process
• Storytelling for the Creative Industries

You will also start work experience and take part in employer visits where you will develop work-ready skills and complete the following units:

• Work effectively with others in the Creative Industries
• Ensure Your Own Actions Reduce Risks to Health and Safety
• Communicating Digital Marketing/Sales Channels
• Digital and Social Media in Marketing Campaigns
• A media project for the industry

Candidates will carry out approx. 220 hours work experience and approx. 120 hours on the media project.

On successful completion you will achieve a Foundation Apprenticeship (Group Award) in Creative and Digital Media at SCQF Level 6, which includes:

• A National Progression Award in Creative and Digital Media at SCQF Level 6
• Four work-based units from the Diploma in Creative Digital Media at SCQF Level 7
• A media project unit at SCQF Level 6

SCQF Levels 4, 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

These courses introduce you to the knowledge and experience of practical skills required to work in the Childcare industry. You will work at the level required for the Occupational Standards for Children’s Care, Learning and Development, and Playwork.

These courses include:

• Child Development
• Working in Early Education and Childcare
• Play in Early Education and Childcare
• Care of Children

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This FA in Social Services - Children and Young People helps you discover what a career working with young people would be like, and if it’s right for you.

You will:

• try out creative roles
• shadow experienced professionals or undertake special project
• build the practical skills and experience you need for this industry

As part of the NPA in Social Services - Children and Young People you will attend classes one day per week to develop:

• an understanding of the values and principles that underpin childcare before applying to practice whilst on work placement
• the skills of investigating, analysing, evaluating and presenting information
• knowledge and understanding of the subject area

You will undertake the SVQ in Social Services - Children and Young People through a work experience placement in a relevant play work and childcare setting. In addition to the completion of the mandatory SVQ units you will gain vocational and employability skills of timekeeping, attendance, team working, communication and demonstrating value based practice.

On successful completion you will achieve a Foundation Apprenticeship (Group Award) in Social Services - Children and Young People at SCQF Level 6, which includes:

• Four units from the SVQ in Social Services - Children and Young People at SCQF Level 6
• A National Progression Award in Social Services - Children and Young People at SCQF Level 6

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

This course will provide you with the knowledge and understanding of current educational practices in relation to Additional Support Needs (ASN), behavioural issues, and the development of language, literacy and numeracy. 

Ideally suited for those considering a career in primary teaching or related fields, this HNC Cluster* gives you a taste of a full-time course in Education, Childcare or a selection of learning opportunities relevant to Initial Teacher Education.  

It will also provide a valuable foundation for any student wishing to apply to either an initial teacher 4-year programme, the PDGE programme at UHI or HNC study. 

SCQF Level 4
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course is designed to provide you with the basic practical, theory and key skills in motor vehicle.

The course comprises:

• Employability skills in the Motor Industry
• Health and Safety aspects through undertaking a range of workshop activities removal and replacement of certain components
• Full inspection for pre-delivery of new cars
• Learn to valet car to acceptable standard
• Online research to ascertain the work involved in running large car dealership, visit local companies
• Small project work involving modification of systems on a vehicle, eg. fitting extra lights, reversing sensors or perhaps a towbar will be undertaken
• Work-based Skills Challenge

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

This course* is the only one of its kind in Scotland and has been designed to develop the practical Engineering skills needed to work within the Engineering sector required for the 21st century economy.

You will:

• develop knowledge and understanding for the operation and maintenance of complex systems
• develop the knowledge and understanding required to apply the basic principles of operating mediums in engineering system
• develop a knowledge and understanding of the principles of operation and applications of a range of control mechanism in complex systems
• develop knowledge and understanding of material properties and testing and to apply basic material selection concepts for a range of components

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course is designed to provide an introduction to basic Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical engineering disciplines to those who have no prior knowledge of the subject.

By combining these three engineering disciplines this course provides a varied and diverse introduction to practical craft level activity through electrical and mechanical workshop based units.

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

National 5 ESOL is a qualification which can be used for entry to college courses, as well as developing your language skills. Bilingual school students are encouraged to achieve their highest potential level of English language skills and ESOL qualifications can help you to do this.

This course will cover:

• development of your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills to a high level, but the course is much less literature based than English classes at school
• a wide range of interesting and varied topics including business, health and sport, the environment, social media and technology, and other topical issues
• language skills which will help you with your other subjects at school such as essay writing tips, how to write formal emails and reports. You will also learn techniques to better understand and analyse reading texts while learning more advanced vocabulary 

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S4, S5, S6

Higher ESOL is a qualification accepted for entry to colleges and universities, including for studies in Medicine, Law, Engineering and PGDE in Secondary School Teaching. It is accepted as an equivalent to Higher English.

This course will cover:

• advanced academic language skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking), but it is less literature based than English classes at school 
• a wide variety of interesting and varied topics such as health and well-being, the world of work, business, the environment and Further/Higher Education 
• language skills which can also help with your other school subjects such as tips on how to give a professional presentation, essay writing techniques including referencing, writing a review and blog, understanding and analysing complex texts on a wide variety of topics and expanding your vocabulary range to an advanced level.

SCQF Level 4
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course provides an introduction to hairdressing, focusing on employability skills and approaches that will help to prepare you for the workplace.

You will:

• gain practical experience of general salon duties to support stylists and assist with client care
• research and compile a storyboard/moodboard to help create a finished style
• develop skills in shampooing, conditioning and drying hair
• explore the creative side of hairdressing

SCQF Level 4
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course consists of four beauty therapy related modules which will enable you to develop vocational skills to improve employment prospects by developing a range of supporting, transferable skills.

You will:

• Learn how to work safely and professionally in the salon
• Discover skin care and pressure point massage techniques
• Recognise different coping strategies and the differing modes of assistance that are available
• Carry out practical treatments on the hands and feet (including nail care, massage, with nail painting and nail art techniques)

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

This HN Cluster* covers some key themes within Health and Social Care which will enable you to build the skills and knowledge needed to progress to a higher level of study in the Health and Social Care subject areas. 

This programme is designed to provide an opportunity for students to engage in a range of activities designed to develop broad based skills in health and social care.

Key features of this programme will have the emphasis on:   

• Develop knowledge around professional standards, loss, leadership, and values, that can be applied to many career pathways
• Applying knowledge to develop the ability to lead, as well as work as part of a team
• Prepare you for progression to further study

*Course is built up of modules from a HNC qualification

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This NPA develops knowledge and understanding of the health and social care sector, including practical and transferable skills such as written, oral and working with others. 

Subjects covered include communication in care relationships, safeguarding people, social services in Scotland, safe practice and wellbeing in social services and human development and social influences.

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This FA in Social Services and Healthcare will help you discover what a career in care would be like, and if it’s right for you. 

You will:

• undertake a work placement in a care setting
• shadow experienced staff
• build practical skills, knowledge and experience

As part of the NPA in Social Services and Healthcare you will attend classes one day per week to develop:

• an understanding of the values and principles that underpin Social Services and Healthcare before applying to practice whilst on work placement
• your skills of investigating, analysing, evaluating and presenting information
• knowledge and understanding of the subject area
• you will undertake units from the SVQ in Social Services and Healthcare through a work placement (approx. 370 hours) in a relevant health or social care setting. In addition, you will gain employability skills of timekeeping, attendance, team working, communication and demonstrating value based practice.

You will also have the opportunity to relate all of your theoretical knowledge gained into practice and develop reflective practice skills as part of this process.

On successful completion you will achieve a Foundation Apprenticeship (Group Award) in Social Services and Healthcare at SCQF Level 6, which includes:

• Four units from the SVQ in Social Services and Healthcare at SCQF Level 6
• A National Progression Award in Social Services and Healthcare at SCQF Level 6

SCQF Level 4
Available to: S4, S5, S6

The NPA Bakery has been designed to equip you with the skills, experience and knowledge required for employment within the bakery industry.

The craft bakery industry currently has a skills shortage, the public are requesting better quality and varieties of breads and flour confectionery made by traditional methods, and there is now a rise in the artisan baker and flour confectioner.

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course consists of key areas within the field of Sports Therapy. You will learn about the human body, what it is capable of, how to prevent and recover from injuries, and the professional manner in which Sports Therapy is delivered.

The course comprises:

• Musculoskeletal Anatomy and Physiology
• Exercise Principles and Testing
• Prevention and Management of Injuries
• Professional Standards

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This course will provide you with an introduction to the professional world of sports massage and sport therapy.  You will experience hands on massage exploring techniques and methods to help prevent and manage soft tissue injuries. 

You will study:

• Introduction to Soft Tissue Therapy
• Introduction to Sports Massage
• Body Systems and Wellness
• Resilience Building and Self Awareness

This course will also help prepare you for higher education.

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course is ideal if you have an interest in developing skills, knowledge and understanding of biology relevant to life sciences within our society.

Through an experimental and investigative approach, you will develop knowledge and understanding of key areas of biology ranging from cellular to whole organism and ecosystems. Biodiversity and interdependence are also covered, exploring the processes leading to evolution, food security and ethical issues.

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This course enables you to develop and apply knowledge and understanding of biology, particularly an understanding of DNA and how the structure of the genome leads to the basis of evolution and biodiversity.

You will learn:

• to adapt to new situations and solve problems
• make decisions based on evidence
• evaluate the impact of scientific developments on health and wellbeing, society and the environment

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This course enables you to develop and apply knowledge and understanding of human biology, and an understanding of human biology’s role in scientific issues and relevant applications of human biology, including their impact on society and the environment.

You will also develop scientific inquiry and investigative skills, as well as scientific analytical thinking skills, including scientific evaluation, in a human biology context.

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

Chemistry is the study of matter at the level of atoms, molecules, ions and compounds.

These substances are the building blocks of life and all of the materials that surround us.

Chemists play a vital role in the production of everyday commodities with chemistry research and development being essential for the introduction of new products. This course is ideal for those intending to pursue a career in science, food, health, textile or manufacturing industries.

An experimental and investigative approach is used to develop knowledge and understanding of chemical concepts.

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This course will allow you to develop a deeper understanding of the central concepts of chemistry.

An experimental and investigative approach is used to develop knowledge and understanding of chemical concepts, with knowledge of chemical apparatus and techniques being a key course component.

You will:

• develop your curiosity, interest and enthusiasm for chemistry in a range of contexts
• develop skills in scientific inquiry and investigation
• develop an appreciation of the impact of chemistry on their everyday lives
• apply your knowledge and understanding of chemical concepts in practical situations
• think analytically, creatively and independently to make reasoned evaluations
• choose your own topic for assignment

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course is ideal for those wishing to develop an understanding of the impact environmental science makes on our lives, the lives of others, on the environment, and on society. You will develop a broad selection of ideas within environmental science, including environmental issues and possible solutions to preventing or reversing environmental degradation, and sustainable practices.

Through an experimental and investigative approach you will explore:

• the Earth’s systems, atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere and biosphere
• sustainability and sustainable development through food, water and energy security
• issues relating to waste generation and its management
• biodiversity and interdependence

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This course looks at interactions between humans and the environment, incorporating a mix of geography, geology, history, modern studies, and biology.

The units you will study are
• Living Environment
• Earth Resources
• Sustainability

A range of assessment types will be used, including an investigation and an end of year exam. The course is useful for anyone with an interest in their environment.

For more information on Higher Environmental Science, visit the SQA website

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

This PDA will enable you to gain experience in microbiology, cell biology and biotechnology.

You will:

• learn about a variety of current and up-to-date techniques in a modern laboratory environment
• gain viable practical skills that will support you in further education or employment
• discover the ethics behind current biotechnologies
• get a head start in key practicals in a modern laboratory

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

Criminology is the scientific study of crime including its causes, responses by criminal justice system, and methods of prevention. This course is a collection of modules examining different aspects of Criminology.

Course modules include:

• Nature and Extent of Crime
• Crime Control Strategies
• Forensic Criminology

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

This course is ideal if you are curious about politics, political concepts and theories of the state.

Throughout this course you will develop your critical thinking and explore key political concepts like accountability, citizenship, democracy, equality, justice, liberty, power, authority or rights to help you formulate an increased understanding of modern political systems.

You will also study some of the political structures within the UK including Westminster and the Scottish Parliament as well as looking at the work of pressure groups in our society.

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course is ideal if you have an interest in developing your knowledge and understanding of human behaviour. Throughout your studies you can choose to focus on a range of topics in psychology.

You will:

• gain an insight into individual and social behaviour
• find out the ways that thoughts and the environment can affect how we feel and behave
• investigate psychological theories and relevant concepts
• develop knowledge and understanding of factors to consider when planning and carrying out psychological research

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This course is ideal if you want to learn about the way we live and interact with other people, how we pick up on different signals, how we remember things and why we forget.

You will:

• develop a good understanding of the way that people behave in society, and how we form attitudes towards obeying rules and conforming to the majority
• learn about childhood influences, and what makes people different.
• develop key transferable skills in analysis, interpretation, evaluation and research

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

This course is ideal if you have an interest in finding out about the human mind and behaviour. The PDA in Psychology explores the historical development of psychology since the 19th Century, the four major schools of thought that have influenced development, and the famous psychologists who have shaped the discipline.

You will build the skills and knowledge needed to progress to a higher level of study or into employment.

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This course will help you gain an understanding of human social behaviour. Throughout the course you will develop a knowledge and understanding of sociological concepts, theories and methods and their distinctive approach to the analysis and explanation of areas of society, such as social class, education, the family, crime and deviance, welfare and poverty and the mass media.

You will gain the ability to analyse and evaluate sociological arguments, evidence and research methods in a critical way.

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

Sociology, as a discipline, has emerged from a historical context of social change. This course provides you with an academic and practical understanding of key social concepts like socialisation and social order and encourages you to question and explore why society is organised the way it is.

This PDA encourages you to consider society, from its origin to its development, and how it’s explained by competing perspectives. This is an ideal course if you would like to work in careers which require an understanding of the complex relationship between the individual and society including public service, criminal justice, health, business and advertising.

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course will provide you with a basic knowledge and understanding of the practical skills required to lead recreational physical activities.

You will:

• practice and apply the skills by leading practical activity sessions in a familiar industry setting
• learn to demonstrate an understanding of the roles and functions of a physical activity leader together with an awareness of health, safety, legal and ethical considerations whilst operating in the recreational environment
• develop your confidence and demonstrate appropriate organisational and communication skills to lead and motivate participants according to their age and stage of development
• Enhance your employability skills by completing a minimum of two National Governing Body (NGB) CPD workshops and a 10-hour work-based experience within their chosen physical activity which will require engagement with a local organisation or employer

SCQF Level 4
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course will give you good all-round knowledge, skills and understanding of the main aspects of the uniformed services industry (police, army, ambulance services, etc.)

The course comprises:

• Employability skills with uniformed services
• Participate and evaluate practical activities in relation to chosen profession
• Understanding the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the physical fitness levels required within the services
• Risk assessments & dealing with emergencies
• Understanding the local community and the role people employed within the services play
• Team working and relevance to the services

The knowledge and experience acquired will not only enable you to work within the Uniformed Services but will also develop transferable skills.