Distance Online Learning

Distance Online Learning

Distance Online Learning

A Fast, FREE*, Flexible Way to Learn!

Study independently at home and at your own pace and get a new qualification. You will complete an online workbook in stages and get feedback from your tutor as you progress. These short courses are a perfect way to learn whilst looking for work or to fit around your other commitments.

They run on a rolling programme over 12 weeks with start dates every few months. There will be a charge of £100 for those who don’t complete their course to cover learning materials and registration.

Distance learning courses require a proficient level of written English so you will be required to complete an online English assessment and attend an online induction meeting before being accepted onto the course.

Take a look at the wide range of subjects we offer and give your career a boost through distance learning.

To find out more and apply for a place, fill out this short form: Apply for a Distance Learning Course

Our distance learning courses are self-study. You will need: a computer, internet connection and enough digital skills to be able to learn independently online as all materials are accessed through an e-learning platform. If you are not confident that you have the necessary digital skills, then please apply for one of our Digital Skills Courses before embarking on a Distance Learning course. Our digital skills application form is here

*Level 1 and Level 2 courses are fully funded for adults 19 years or over who meet UK residency requirements.

If Buckinghamshire Adult Learning are not able to obtain government funding for this reason, then learners will be expected to pay a course fee of £811.

man holding laptop in flowery shirt

Digital Marketing - Level 2 Certificate

The TQUK Level 2 Digital Marketing course is ideal for those who wish to develop their knowledge and understanding of Digital Marketing.

The programme is designed for those who desire to form a foundation due to little or no previous digital marketing experience. It’s also valuable for anyone who is planning a career that requires an understanding of Digital Marketing and is looking to gain a qualification in this.

Learn the basics of marketing strategy including social media, Email and SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) as part of marketing campaigns.

Course Content

Unit 1: Social Media for Business

This unit covers the role of social media in business, how to use social media to attract an audience and understand how to use a range of social media platforms for businesses.

Unit 2: Email as a Promotional Tool for Business

This unit covers how to plan an email campaign, how to reach and attract audiences through email campaigns and the role of legislations (Data protection regulations) when implementing email campaigns.

Unit 3: Digital Marketing Review

This unit will cover the role of digital marketing, how to review the effectiveness of digital marketing is and how to use the outcomes of these reviews.

Unit 4: Understanding Search Engine Optimisation for Business

This unit will cover the principles of Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), how it can be used to benefit a business.

Unit 5: Digital Marketing for Business

This unit covers the role of digital marketing within a business, how to use digital marketing to promote a business and how to use it to raise funds and cut costs.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Event Planning - Level 2 Certificate

The TQUK Level 2 Event Planning course is ideal for those who wish to develop their knowledge and understanding to enable them to plan and evaluate events.

Areas covered include marketing methods and resources, market research, human resources, communication and customer service relevant to events. You may wish to pursue a career as an event planner or your job role requires you to plan and organise events as part of your responsibilities.

Course Content

Unit 1: Planning an event

Unit 2: Reviewing and evaluating an event

Unit 3: Marketing and market research for event planning

Unit 4: Planning human resources for events

Unit 5: Communication and customer service for events

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Principles of Business Administration - Level 2 Certificate

This qualification will give you the underpinning knowledge that is required to ensure you can successfully work in a range of different environments in a business administration role. You will develop essential knowledge of how to carry out administrative tasks such as how to manage information and supporting events. You will also learn how to apply your knowledge in a variety of industries and job roles.

Course Content

Unit 1: Principles of providing administrative services

This unit will develop your knowledge of a range of administrative support tasks as well as meeting types, different mail services and how to organise travel and accommodation. This unit also covers the impact of delivering poor customer service.

Unit 2: Principles of business document production and information management

This unit will provide you with an understanding of how to prepare and distribute business documents and identify how information is managed in business organisations.

Unit 3: Understand communication in a business environment

Within this unit you will study written and verbal business communication, including identifying appropriate body language and tone of voice when communicating verbally.

Unit 4: Understand employer organisations

This unit will provide you with an understanding of different organisational structures and the differences between private, public and voluntary sectors. You will also cover the internal and external influences on organisations and why change in the business environment is important.

Unit 5: Understand how to develop working relationships with colleagues

Within this unit you will look at the principles of effective team working, as well as what is expected of a ‘buddy’.

Unit 6: Understand how to carry out business administration tasks

This unit will provide you with the knowledge of how to deal with incoming and outgoing mail, reception services, diary systems management, event organisation and systems for financing administration roles. You will get the opportunity to apply this to your current or potential future workplace.

Unit 7: Understand how to prepare text

Within this unit you will gain an understanding of how to create text from recorded notes as well as knowledge of organisational procedures for storing confidential information.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Principles of Customer Service - Level 2 Certificate

Are you looking to study a customer service online course? This qualification will provide you with the underpinning knowledge required by employers to work in a range of different environments in a customer service role. You will develop essential knowledge of how to carry out customer service related tasks such as how to manage information and support events. Once you have completed the qualification you will be able to apply your knowledge in a variety of industries and job roles.

Course Content

Unit 1: Principles of customer service and delivery

This unit will provide you with the fundamental knowledge and understanding needed to work in a customer service role. You will develop knowledge of the legal and ethical requirements that relate to customer service and maintaining customer service information.

Unit 2: Understand customers

Within this unit you will develop knowledge of the different types of customers. You will also study the links between good customer service and customer loyalty, as well as how these factors affect the organisation in terms of reputation and image.

Unit 3: Understand employer organisations

Here you will look at a variety of organisational structures and the differences between private, public and voluntary sectors. You will discover the internal and external influences on organisations, and why change in the business environment is important.

Unit 4: Understand how to communicate with customers

Within this unit you will gain a thorough understanding of the importance of effective communication in customer service. You will look at different communication techniques and how to identify and adapt your own communication style in order to offer the best service possible.

Unit 5: Understand how to handle customer information

This unit will provide you with knowledge of customer service information systems and handover procedures. You will learn about the different responsibilities and levels of authority for processing customer service information.

Unit 6: Understand how to resolve problems and deliver customer service to challenging customers

Unit 6 will provide you with a solid foundation of knowledge to enable you to deal with challenging customers. You will develop knowledge of techniques you can use to resolve problems and manage unresolved problems by referring to other sources.

Unit 7: Understand how to develop customer relationships

Within this unit you will gain an understanding of how to develop relationships with customers or potential customers. You will also study the value of customer loyalty and the customer’s expectations of you.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Mental Health Awareness - Level 1 Award

This qualification aims to increase your knowledge and understanding of mental health, as well as develop the skills which will enable you to progress your career.

Upon completion of this course, you could progress on to study one of our other mental health courses, such as the Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems.

Course Content

Section 1: What is meant by mental health

In this section, you will learn about the terms ‘mental health’ and ‘mental ill health’, possible causes of mental health problems, examples of mental health problems, and common sources of information on mental health issues.

Section 2: The social and personal effects of mental ill health

This section explores the prominence of individuals experiencing mental health problems in the UK, the effects that experiencing a mental problem might have on an individual, how mental health is reported in the media, the negative effects that media reporting can have on an individual, the negative effects that media reporting can have on society, and how stereotyping can affect people with mental health problems.

Section 3: The responses to mental health issues

In this section, you will learn about the rights of people experiencing mental ill health, possible responses that can be made to support an individual with mental health problems, factors which can have an impact on whether a response will work, where to refer people for further help or guidance about mental health issues, and ways to promote positive mental health.

Section 4: Cultural diversity in relation to mental health issues

In this final section, you will explore the possible causes of mental distress in different cultural groups, examples of barriers that may exist for different cultural groups accessing services, ways of overcoming barriers to accessing services, and factors that can help promote positive mental health amongst different cultural groups.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Awareness of Mental Health Problems - Level 2 Certificate

Are you looking for mental health training? UK employers, particularly in the health and social care sector, are increasingly interested in their staff having a sound understanding of a range of mental health problems. This qualification aims to raise your awareness of mental health and a range of mental health problems. You will gain an understanding of prevalent mental health problems and how you can then work with or interact with individuals with them.

Course Content

Unit 1: Understanding mental health

In this unit you will learn about what is meant by ‘mental health’ and its impact. You will also look at the legal frameworks which ensure high quality care is provided.

Unit 2: Understanding stress

In this unit you will gain an understanding of stress and its causes, as well as the effects stress can have on individuals and their daily life. You will also gain an understanding of ways in which stress can be managed.

Unit 3: Understanding anxiety

Within this unit you will gain an understanding of anxiety, the causes of anxiety and how it affects the individual and others.

Unit 4: Understanding phobias

In this unit you will look at the causes of phobias and learn about how those with phobias can manage them.

Unit 5: Understanding depression

This unit covers the causes and effects of depression on individuals and those around them. You will gain an in-depth knowledge of how depression can be managed.

Unit 6: Understanding post-natal depression

In this unit you will learn what is meant by the term ‘postnatal depression’. You will look into how postnatal depression not only affects women, but the effect it can have on others around them.

Unit 7: Understanding bipolar disorder

This unit will give learners an understanding of bipolar disorder, its causes and the effects it can have on individuals and their daily lives. You will also gain an understanding of ways in which bipolar disorder can be managed.

Unit 8: Understanding schizophrenia

Within this unit you will look at the causes of schizophrenia and the media’s representation of this condition.

Unit 9: Understanding dementia

Within this unit you will not only learn about what dementia is and how it affects an individual, but will gain an understanding of the ways in which dementia can be managed.

Unit 10: Understanding eating disorders

Unit 10 will give you in-depth knowledge of eating disorder, the causes of eating disorders and how they can affect the individual and others.

Unit 11: Understanding attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Within this unit you will look at ADHD, the causes of this condition and the effect it can have on an individual and others.

Unit 12: Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

In this unit you will gain an understanding of OCD, its causes and how it might affect the individual and others. You will also learn about ways in which OCD can be managed.

Unit 13: Understanding Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

The final unit will give you knowledge of PTSD, its causes and how it can affect the individual. You will also gain an understanding of the ways in which PTSD can be managed.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Level 3 courses are free for learners who do not already hold a full Level 3 qualification (e.g. four AS Levels or two A Levels etc) and are aged 19-24 years. If Buckinghamshire Adult Learning are not able to obtain government funding for this reason, then learners will be expected to pay a course fee of £811.

If you are over 24yrs please contact as we have other courses available.

Counselling Skills - Level 2 Certificate

This qualification will help develop your knowledge and skills around counselling by looking at counselling theories, key elements of the main theoretical approaches and will help you to develop self-understanding and reflect on your own values and beliefs. Successfully completing this qualification will help enable you to provide support and help to others.

Course Content

Unit 1: Using counselling skills

In this unit, you will learn to identify core counselling skills alongside understanding how these are practised in a counselling relationship. You will gain an understanding of how to establish an effective working relationship and will consider the boundaries which need to be respected in this sensitive role.

Unit 2: Introduction to counselling skills theories

This unit will introduce you to the key elements of the main theoretical approaches in counselling, psychodynamics, person-centred therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. There are key practical differences between these theories and you will hone your skills in understanding the significant importance of counselling theory.

Unit 3: Diversity and ethics in the use of counselling skills

This unit covers the concepts of diversity and ethics. You will gain an understanding of anti-discriminatory practice, discover the key aspects of an ethical framework, and discover ways to address diversity in counselling skills practice.

Unit 4: Counselling skills and personal development

This unit encourages you to develop self-understanding, identifying your own values and beliefs and the ability to reflect on your personal qualities and skills.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Understanding Children & Young People's Mental Health - Level 2 Certificate

Are you interested in increasing your knowledge of children’s mental health? Courses online, such as this one, allow you to develop your knowledge at your own pace, and in your own home. This qualification aims to equip you with a more detailed understanding of mental health conditions that affect children and young people, the legislation and guidance surrounding mental health, risk factors that may affect mental well-being and the impact that mental health concerns may have on young people and others.

Course Content

Unit 1: Understand children and young people’s mental health in context

In this unit, you will learn about the concept of mental health and how society’s view of mental health has changed over time. You will also learn about the legislation in place to support children and young people’s mental health.

Unit 2: Understand factors which may affect children and young people’s mental health

This unit will cover the risk factors that can affect children and young people’s mental health and how these can be mitigated. You will also look at how developmental changes and puberty can impact children and young people.

Unit 3: Understand children and young people’s mental health concerns

This unit will look at the behaviours displayed by children and young people that may indicate a mental health concern. You will look in more detail at common mental health conditions that affect children and young people.

Unit 4: Understand the impact of children and young people’s mental health concerns

In this unit, you will investigate the impact of mental health concerns on children, young people and others. You will look at the importance of diagnosis and the reasons why there may be a reluctance to seek a diagnosis.

Unit 5: Understand how to support children and young people with mental health concerns

In this fifth and final unit, you will explore person-centred approaches to supporting children and young people with mental health concerns, how to promote mental well-being in children and young people, and the services and treatment involved with children and young people’s mental health.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Understanding Autism - Level 2 Certificate

Our Understanding Autism course will give you an understanding of autism and the principles of supporting individuals with autism. You will look at the person-centred approach and the influence that positive communication methods can have and will gain an understanding of how individuals with autism can be supported to live healthy and fulfilled lives.

Unit 1: Introduction to autism

This unit will provide you with a comprehensive introduction to autism, covering what is meant by ‘autism’, theories, exploring how autism develops and methods of working with those affected. You will also look at common misconceptions surrounding autism and conditions that develop alongside autism.

Unit 2: Using a person-centred approach to support individuals with autism

This unit covers the method of utilising a person-centred approach in order to support individuals with autism, incorporating the unique preferences and needs of the individual. You will examine the legislation and guidance on autism, as well as the support networks available to individuals diagnosed with the condition and their families.

Unit 3: Communication and social interaction in individuals with autism

This unit covers the delays and difficulties in speech, language, and social development often faced by individuals with autism. Also covered are methods and strategies that could be used when communicating with an individual with autism.

Unit 4: Sensory processing, perception and cognition in individuals with autism

In this unit you will gain an in-depth understanding of sensory processing, perception and cognition in individuals with autism – including hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity. You will also consider how to support the many unique sensory needs of individuals with autism.

Unit 5: Supporting positive behaviour in individuals with autism

This unit will provide you with an understanding of an individual’s behaviour in the context of autism. You will also look at how to support positive behaviour and help individuals to develop coping strategies.

Unit 6: Supporting individuals with autism to live healthy and fulfilled lives

This unit covers how to provide effective support through transitions and life events, how to maintain the personal safety of others and how to access the wealth of services, facilities and employment opportunities open to those living with autism. You will also gain an understanding of what it is like for an individual to live with autism, including their experiences and their challenges.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care - Level 2 Certificate

Have you ever considered how you might contribute to the care of vulnerable adults in society? This course prepares you for any role within adult social care, in order to ensure the needs of vulnerable people continue to be met.

Course Content

Unit 1: Principles of communication in adult social care settings

In this unit you will look at the importance of communication in adult social care settings, as well as confidentiality in these settings. You will learn how to reduce barriers to communication and how to meet the communication needs, wishes and preferences of individuals you care for.

Unit 2: Principles of personal development in adult social care settings

You will explore the requirements for good practice in adult social care roles and will look at how a personal development plan can contribute positively to an individual’s learning and development. This unit also covers the learning activities that can be used to develop an individual’s knowledge and skills.

Unit 3: Principles of diversity, equality and inclusion in adult social care settings

This unit enables you to understand the importance of diversity, equality and inclusion in an adult social care setting. You will also learn how to work in an inclusive way and how to access information, advice and support about the key aspects of diversity, inclusion and discrimination.

Unit 4: Principles of safeguarding and protection in health and social care

You will learn how to identify signs of abuse, respond to suspected or alleged abuse, reduce the likelihood of abuse, and recognise and report unsafe practices. This unit will also cover the national and local context of safeguarding and protection from abuse.

Unit 5: Introduction to duty of care in health, social care or children’s and young people’s settings

In this unit you will look at the implications of duty of care, and the support that is available for addressing dilemmas that may arise in relation to duty of care. You will learn how to respond to complaints and how to work in line with agreed procedure for handling complaints.

Unit 6: Understand the role of the social care worker

This unit explores the different types of working relationships in social care settings and how important it is to work in partnership with others. You will also consider the importance of working in ways that are agreed with the employer to ensure you are following workplace policy and procedures.

Unit 7: Understand person-centred approaches in adult social care settings

In this unit you will look at different person-centred approaches for care and support in adult social care settings, how to implement person-centred approaches, the importance of consent when providing care or support for an individual and how to support individuals to make the right choices. You will also learn how to encourage active participation and how to promote an individual’s well-being.

Unit 8: Understand health and safety in social care settings

This unit explores the key aspects of health and safety in social care settings and covers the different roles and responsibilities for health and safety. You will learn about risk assessments, the procedures for responding to accidents and sudden illness, methods for reducing the spread of infection, techniques for moving and handling equipment and the principles of moving an individual safely. You will also look at hazardous substances, environmental safety procedures, stress management, the safe handling of medication and how to handle and store food safely in an adult social care setting.

Unit 9: Understand how to handle information in social care settings

Within this unit, you will look at the need for secure handling of information in social care settings and the different ways of accessing support for handling information in social care settings.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Caring for the Elderly - Level 2 Certificate

This qualification will give you an understanding of caring for the elderly. You will develop a knowledge of common health issues, legislation and the principles of elderly care.

This course is split into six manageable units:

Course Content

Unit 1: Principles of elderly care in the UK

This unit covers the role of Care Quality Commission (CQC), the different care available and what caring for the elderly means.

Unit 2: Maintaining health and well-being in elderly care
This unit covers the importance of maintaining health and well-being for care workers, the role of independence in elderly care and the importance of communication between family, friend and service users.

Unit 3: Common health issues affecting individuals in elderly care
This unit will cover how to spot the signs, symptoms and support service users with health issues such as pneumonia, wounds, depression, dementia, urinary tract infection and arthritis. This section will also include end of life care.

Unit 4: Individual rights in elderly care
This unit will cover recognising and responding to abuse, safeguarding, protecting vulnerable adults, legislations in work place and equality and diversity.

Unit 5: Minimising risk in elderly care
This unit covers safe administration of medicine, hazardous substances, manual handling, risk assessments, risk of infections and how to deal with incidents.

Unit 6: Communication in elderly care
This unit will cover the skills required for care workers, moving into a care home and the communication in elderly care settings.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Principles of Dementia Care - Level 2 Certificate

Are you looking to improve your knowledge of dementia care by completing a dementia course? UK employers, particularly in the health and social care sector, are often looking for candidates with knowledge of this complex condition. This qualification aims to provide you with the vital knowledge needed to begin tackling dementia through understanding what it is and how to support those who are affected by it. It also ensures that you will develop an essential understanding of caring for people with dementia, as well as covering the benefits of positive communication and the importance of individualised, person-centred care.

Course Content

Unit 1: Dementia awareness

In this unit you will learn about precisely what dementia is, the most common types of dementia and the causal factors associated to them. Also explored is how others can have a positive impact on an individual with dementia through a variety of different techniques.

Unit 2: Person-centred approach to the care and support of individuals with dementia

Within this unit you will build the knowledge and understanding required to enable an individual with dementia to experience a sense of security and well-being. The vital role of carers in such a scenario is also covered.

Unit 3: Understand the factors that can influence communication and interaction with individuals who have dementia

This unit will raise your awareness of the different communication needs and limitations of individuals with dementia in order to encourage positive interaction.

Unit 4: Understand equality, diversity and inclusion in dementia care

Within this unit you will be introduced to equality, diversity and inclusion as ideas to aspire to, which are also all important when practising the person-centred care approach.

Unit 5: Understand the administration of medication to individuals with dementia using a person-centred approach

This unit will help you understand the range of cutting edge medications available to, and appropriate for, individuals with dementia, exploring specific needs that individuals may have when receiving medication.

Unit 6: Understand behaviour in the context of dementia

Within this unit you will look at the different behaviours individuals display once diagnosed with dementia and how to respond to particular types of behaviour.

Unit 7: Understand the benefits of engaging in activities in social care

In this unit you will explore how engaging in social activities in order to enhance mental, physical and social well-being can be of amazing benefit to individuals with dementia.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Falls Prevention Awareness - Level 2 Certificate

Are you currently working in, or looking to work in, the health and social care sector? Are you looking to receive a falls prevention certification to further progress or kick-start your career? This could be the course for you. This qualification aims to raise awareness about the impact and consequences of a fall, the risks and hazards that could result in a fall and how to prevent or reduce the risk of a fall.

Course Content

Unit 1: Falls in context

This unit will provide an introduction to falls within a health and social care context, including the impact and consequences of falls, the benefits of falls awareness and prevention and legislation and guidance relating to falls and falls prevention.

Unit 2: The risk factors and causes of falls

In this unit you will be learning about the personal and environmental factors that can increase the likelihood of falls and other risk factors.

Unit 3: Falls assessment and prevention

This unit will look at how an individual’s risk of falls can be assessed, monitored and reviewed. You will learn about effective interventions that can be used to reduce the risk of falls and multi-agency and specialist support available for falls prevention.

Unit 4: Managing falls

In this unit you will learn more about how to reduce the impact and minimise harm in the event of a fall, your role and responsibilities in falls situations and the importance of learning from falls to improve care.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Safeguarding, Prevent & British Values - Level 2 Certificate

In 2017, there were 412 arrests for terrorism-related offences. With issues of human rights, hate crime and democracy becoming ever more prevalent in the UK and the world, it is more important than ever to be informed on the measures that can be taken to help prevent terrorism and promote safeguarding and British Values in society.

This course will equip you with a detailed understanding of how to recognise and prevent radicalisation and extremism, the principles of safeguarding, the Prevent duty and its importance in society, and the importance of online safety and British Values.

Course Content

Unit 1: Principles of safeguarding

Unit 2: The Prevent duty and its importance in society

Unit 3: The importance of online safety

Unit 4: The importance of British Values

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Self-harm and Suicide Awareness and Prevention – Level 2 Certificate

Course Overview

This qualification is aimed at anyone seeking to improve their understanding and awareness of suicide and self-harm. The knowledge individuals will gain is not sector-specific but can be applied to a broad range of personal and professional situations.

Individuals who may find this self-harm training course useful to their professional life include: teachers, mental health workers, crisis helpline volunteers, support workers, individuals in a safeguarding role, parents or guardians, and others working with individuals who may be at increased risk of self-harm or suicide.

Unit 1: Introduction to suicide and self-harm awareness

  • Section 1: Understand what is meant by self-harm and suicide
  • Section 2: Understand the triggers which might cause someone to self-harm or attempt suicide
  • Section 3: Understand media and societal attitudes to self-harm and suicide

 

Unit 2: Recognising the signs of suicide and self-harm in individuals

  • Section 1: Signs, thoughts, feelings and behaviour
  • Section 2: Understand how to initially approach someone who may be self-harming or considering suicide

 

Unit 3: The principles of suicide and self-harm prevention

  • Section 1: Understand the role of conversation in the prevention of self-harm and suicide
  • Section 2: Understand the importance of family and friend support in the prevention of self-harm and suicide
  • Section 3: Know support and treatment options available to individuals and families in relation to self-harm and suicide

 

Unit 4: Support for individuals when dealing with grief after suicide

  • Section 1: Understand the role of suicide prevention campaigns
  • Section 2: Understand the importance of encouraging healthy coping strategies
  • Section 3: Understanding grief following suicide and the impact it can have on individuals
  • Section 4: Understand the reach of grief following suicide
  • Section 5: Understand the importance of support for those affected by grief following suicide

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Special Education Needs & Disabilities - Level 2 Certificate

This qualification is aimed at anyone seeking to improve their knowledge of Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND), either for personal or professional reasons. Learners will consider many aspects of SEND, including the symptoms of specific conditions, legislation and guidance applicable to individuals with SEND and how such conditions affect individuals in daily life.

Course Content

Unit 1: Introduction to Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND)

  • Section 1: Understand the different conditions categorised as SEND conditions
  • Section 2: Understand different models of disabilities
  • Section 3: Understand how the rights and support available to those with a conditions categorised as SEND have changed over time.

Unit 1 summary:

In this unit, learners will explore a range of SEND conditions and the causes of these, as well as the social and medical models of disability. They will also learn about barriers that individuals with SEND might face and positive changes that have occurred over time in relation to SEND.

Unit 2: Understand equality and diversity in the context of SEND

  • Section 1: Understand the concept of equality and diversity
  • Section 2: Understand legislation and guidance which supports individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
  • Section 3: Understand the importance of safeguarding an individual with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
  • Section 4: Understand the benefits of a diverse and inclusive society for an individual with SEND.

Unit 2 summary:

Learners will look at equality, diversity and inclusion within the workplace, community and wider society, as well as exploring relevant legislation and guidance in relation to SEND. They will also learn about safeguarding and the legislation surrounding this, and the different types of abuse.

Unit 3: Principles of promoting person centred approach for individuals with SEND

  • Section 1: Understand person centred approaches
  • Section 2: Understand the importance of encouraging active participation
  • Section 3: Understand the importance of an individual’s well-being.

Unit 3 summary:

Learners will learn about the person-centred approach in relation to send, and the importance of active participation for individuals. They will also look at well-being and how this can be promoted.

Unit 4: Understanding SEND and learning

  • Section 1: Understand the importance of inclusive learning
  • Section 2: Understand the use of support programmes for individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
  • Section 3: Understand the role of reasonable adjustments
  • Section 4: Understand Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans.

Unit 4 summary:

Learners will explore different learning styles and support programmes used in educational settings. They will also learn about reasonable adjustments and how Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans work.

Unit 5: Living with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

  • Section 1: Understand the concept of neurodiversity
  • Section 2: Understand the concept of the self
  • Section 3: Understand the impact of societal and cultural influences on individuals with conditions categorised as SEND
  • Section 4: Understand sources of support for individuals with SEND and the families
  • Section 5: Understand the impact stigma has on individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Unit 5 summary:

Learners will learn about neurodiversity and self-identity, as well as how societal and cultural influences can impact on individuals with SEND. They will also look at the support available for individuals with SEND and their families, as well as the effects of stigma.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses - Level 2 Certificate

This qualification aims to equip you with a strong understanding of common childhood illnesses, including how to provide a safe and healthy environment for babies and young children, how to recognise when a baby or child is unwell, and how to manage acute and chronic health conditions in an early years setting.

Upon completion of this course, you could study one of our other childcare courses from home, such as the Level 2 Certificate in Caring for Children and Young People.

Course Content

Unit 1: Understand how to provide a safe and healthy environment for babies and young children

In this unit, you will explore ways to minimise cross infection and maintain a safe and hygienic environment for babies and young children.

Unit 2: Understand common childhood illnesses

This unit will help you to recognise when a child is unwell, and common childhood illnesses that may occur. You will also consider the policies and procedures relating to unwell children in an early years setting.

Unit 3: Understand health emergencies and specific health conditions in an early years setting

In the final unit of this course, you will consider the role of the practitioner in relation to common accidents and basic first aid, as well as serious illness requiring emergency support. Acute and chronic health conditions, including how to manage allergies in the setting, will also be covered.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Caring for Children & Young People - Level 2 Certificate

This qualification will give you an introductory understanding of childcare through exploring young children’s development, the value and importance of play, how to plan a healthy diet and the importance of safeguarding and welfare.

Unit 1: Young children’s development

This unit will explore the stages of development of young children from birth to three years. Alongside this, you will learn about how positive environments support the development of young children.

Unit 2: The value of play to young children

Within this unit you will learn about the necessity of play to young children’s development as well as demonstrating different play activities suitable for young children from birth to five years old.

Unit 3: Importance of play for early learning

This unit will take you through the vital importance of creativity and imagination in the development of a child. You will learn about how to organise a cooking activity for children as well as the particular importance of books and stories in child development.

Unit 4: Safeguarding the welfare of children and young people

This unit examines legislation, guidelines, policies and procedures for safeguarding the welfare of children and young people (including e-safety). You will look at what action to take when children or young people are injured or ill and when complete, you will be able to recognise emergency procedures as well as how to respond to suspicions that a child or young people has been abused, harmed or bullied.

Unit 5: Use food and nutrition information to plan a healthy diet

This unit will help you to build an understanding of how to make healthy and nutritional food choices for children. You will develop knowledge of food labels and what to look out for to ensure that children are given a balanced diet.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Awareness of Bullying in Children & Young People - Level 2 Certificate

This qualification will develop your understanding of bullying, including how to recognise that bullying is taking place and how to take action to stop it. This qualification covers the definitions of bullying and cyber bullying, legislation that relates to bullying, the effects of bullying on children and young people and how to act when bullying is identified.

Please note: The course focuses entirely on children and young people and is not relevant to anyone interested in an awareness of bullying in adults.

Course Content

Unit 1: Principles of bullying

  • Section 1: What is meant by bullying
  • Section 2: Key features of what behaviour is considered bullying
  • Section 3: What is meant by cyber bullying
  • Section 4: Bullying in context
  • Section 5: The short and long-term effects of bullying
  • Section 6: Discrimination.

Unit 2: Recognising bullying in children and young people

  • Section 1: Individuals who may be at risk of bullying
  • Section 2: The signs that a child or young person may be being bullied
  • Section 3: Why children or young people bully

Unit 3: Action to be taken when a child or young person is being bullied

  • Section 1: How to support a child or young person who is being bullied
  • Section 2: How to approach the potential bully.

Unit 4: Understand government guidelines for bullying

  • Section 1: The Equality Act 2010
  • Section 2: Government and Ofsted guidance on tackling bullying
  • Section 3: Policies and procedures for bullying.

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Understanding Environmental Sustainability – Level 2 Certificate

This qualification will develop your knowledge and understanding of a range of topics relating to environmental sustainability including control of global warming, reducing carbon emissions, alternative energy sources, conservation, environmental monitoring and energy management.

Course Content

Unit 1: Principles of sustainable development:

  • The definition of sustainable development
  • Human and global issues that impact sustainability
  • Common objections to sustainable development
  • Benefits of sustainable development and environmental management systems
  • The impact that organisations and the environment can have on each other.
  • How a carbon footprint is calculated

Unit 2: Principles of sustainable communities:

  • The definition of ‘sustainable community’
  • What is required for a community to be sustainable
  • The local and global benefits of a sustainable community
  • Resources that can be used to support community development proposals
  • Sources of support for implementing sustainable development in a community
  • Engaging with sources of support for development proposals.

Unit 3: Principles of sustainable energy management:

  • The definition of sustainable energy management
  • Legislation and international agreements relating to sustainable energy management
  • Energy conservation techniques
  • The contribution of renewable energy sources to sustainable energy management
  • How energy saving can be monitored
  • How to manage energy usage

Unit 4: Social responsibility of businesses in relation to sustainability:

  • What is meant by Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
  • The importance of social responsibility in businesses for sustainability
  • Why businesses might take action to improve social responsibility
  • The Triple Bottom Line (TBL)
  • How the TBL can impact sustainability
  • Greenwashing

Unit 5: Principles of waste management:

  • Types of waste
  • Characteristics of different types of waste
  • Factors which influence the quantity of waste produced by an organisation
  • Legislation relevant to waste management
  • Public and private sector organisations that have a role in waste management
  • The need to manage and minimise waste

Unit 6: Principles of sustainable transport:

  • Sustainable transport methods
  • The importance of reducing transport vehicles
  • Vehicle fuels not derived from petroleum
  • Factors to consider when assessing alternative fuels as sustainable options
  • Economic, environmental and social aspects of sustainable fuels
  • Economic, environmental and social benefits of reducing the use of vehicles

Unit 7: Sustainability applied in own setting:

  • The purpose of carbon audits
  • Carrying out a carbon audit in own setting
  • Planning sustainability improvements based on the carbon audit
  • What is meant by ‘zero waste’
  • Evaluating a zero waste approach in own setting and creating an action plan
  • How to address sustainability issues in own setting

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

Am I eligible for these free courses?

You must be at least 19 years old at 1/8/2021 and meet UK/EU residency requirements. All learners will be funded.

Do I need any qualifications to be able to start these online courses?

No, you do not need any previous qualifications to be accepted onto the course. However we will ask you to complete a short English and maths assessment before the course starts. This is so we can be sure that the course is at the right level for you and we can support you to achieve your qualification. If you would like further information on maths and English courses with Buckinghamshire Adult Learning please see the information on our website where you can register to receive further information and advice: https://www.adultlearningbc.ac.uk/english-maths/

When can I start my course?

Induction sessions are set up throughout the year. Register with us ASAP so we can give you more information.

How long is the course and how much time will it take me to complete it?

You need to plan your learning to complete the work within 12 weeks. There will be a charge of £100 for those who don’t complete their course to cover learning materials and registration.

You will complete an online workbook which includes short assignments that you must submit to your tutor every two weeks.  Your tutor will mark your work and give feedback online so that you know how much progress you are making.

What support will I get during the course?

You will work independently at your own pace to meet the deadlines set by your tutor. It is important that you meet the deadlines for assignments so that you complete the course within 12 weeks.

Your tutor is available to offer support by telephone, email or video calls as appropriate, so please don’t hesitate to contact us if you would like to have a chat about anything you are finding difficult.

How will my work be assessed?

Your tutor will mark your assignments and tell you if you have passed each section of the workbook or whether you need to revisit any questions. As part of our quality management process, at the end of your course your tutor’s assessments are moderated by another assessor and you will be informed if you have passed your qualification or whether you need to re-do any work. There are no exams.

What qualification will I achieve?

Courses are available at Level 1 or Level 2 and are accredited by NCFE, a nationally recognised Awarding body, who will issue the certificate to you.

Next Steps

When you have completed your course we will give you information and advice about the best way you can progress with your learning and continue to develop your skills.

What our learners say

Harry, aged 22, has studied for two qualifications through Buckinghamshire Adult Learning’s Distance Online Learning programme since being furloughed in March 2020: NCFE Level 2 Principles in Customer Service and CACHE Level 2 Understanding Autism.

When everything shut down in March 2020, I became one of millions who ended up on furlough. Ordinarily, I’d be helping to run a West End theatre; a fast-paced, busy job that I really enjoy. The forced time off initially felt like something of a break, but before long I was looking for ways to ensure that I made the most of this time.

I decided that working on some qualifications would satisfy some of my need to keep occupied, whilst also leaving me in a good position when things opened back up again. The courses offered online by Buckinghamshire Adult Learning suited my needs perfectly – they were easily accessible online, but with support there if needed. Being able to work at my own pace, when I wanted to, how I wanted to, was brilliant. I enjoyed how the courses were set out, with distinct modules to complete, and receiving feedback on the work that I submitted. I’ll admit that I had my doubts about whether Adult Learning was for someone like me, but it has been a very positive experience. I’d recommend these courses to anyone looking for a way to flexibly upskill.

A learner who studied the Principles of Customer Service course commented, “I am really enjoying the course, it’s very interesting and I am gaining a clearer understanding of customer service principles and how to apply them in my job.