General information about types of learning
Further Education courses are those which are not taught in a school and are below Higher National Certificate ( HNC) level. They cover levels 1-6 on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework ( SCQF) and include:
- academic courses up to Higher level;
- courses that do not lead to formal qualifications, such as independent living skills courses;
- basic skills courses, such as literacy and numeracy; and
- work-related courses, such as Scottish Vocational Qualifications ( SVQs).
Higher Education is courses of study which are at Higher National Certificate level or above (that is Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 7 or above). They can be taken at college or at university and include:
- an undergraduate honours degree;
- an undergraduate ordinary degree; or
- a Higher National Certificate ( HNC) or Higher National Diploma ( HND).
Support for Higher Education is mainly loan-based, with a number of means-tested grants for specific groups of students. Levels of Courses and Awards
Most certificated courses and units of study are now given a level on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework. For further information visit the site below
Qualifications - Certificates and Diplomas
Most certificated programmes of study within Scotland, including HNC's and HND's are awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority. You can visit their website by clicking on the link below
National Qualifications guide
The guide to courses taught in Scotland's secondary schools and further education colleges. National Qualifications include Standard Grade and national courses and units at Access, Intermediate, Higher and Advanced Higher
Open Learning
There are a range of opportunities available through the Log in to Learn programme, offered by North Lanarkshire Council Libraries. For further information as to where, what and how click on the link below.
PlanIT Plus
PlanIT Plus is Scotland's most accurate and up-to-date resource of careers, learning and school information.
Modern Apprenticeships
These are aimed at people aged 16 or above who want to learn while in a job and gain a qualification at S/ NVQ level 3 or higher. They often combine practical training with off-the-job learning and you'll get paid a wage while you learn. You won't be asked to pay anything towards your training but you will be employed for the duration of your training.
www.scottish-enterprise.com/modern-apprenticeships
A general information site is also available to offer a range of information to help choose on
Skillseekers
The vast majority of Skillseekers are employed and, similar to Modern Apprenticeships, undertake training while studying for a qualification. All Skillseekers complete a SVQ level 2 and are usually available to people aged 16-19. For those that are employed you will receive a wage while you learn. Those that aren't employed, will receive a training allowance. See details on the website below.
www.scottish-enterprise.com/skillseekers
More Information on Learning while You Work
Learndirect Scotland for Business provide free information and support - contact them on