The Access to Higher Education Handbook

Your Complete Guide to Success on your Access to HE Diploma

‘The Access to Higher Education Diploma is an under used but brilliant qualification that provides people with a direct link to studying their chosen career at University. However the intensity of the curriculum may be demanding for some, particularly those who have been out of formal education for an extended period. No one understands and champions it more than Zoë Chapman. As a student to practitioner as a tutor and specialist Zoë gives the full benefit of her extensive knowledge with clear links to the Quality Assurance Agency guidance and up to date changes to the Diploma. This book will help you understand the intricacies and delights of the Diploma, providing practical advice and high quality guidance. It builds chapter by chapter into the most comprehensive guide available today.

This book provides additional resources and gives support to help mitigate challenges and ensure that students have the opportunity to thrive. The strength of the Access to HE Diploma lies in its inclusivity and flexibility and its ability to accommodate a diverse range of learners, including mature students, career changers, and those who may not have traditional academic backgrounds. This book assists in navigating the pathways within the Diploma and is a testament to Zoë’s commitment to fostering equal opportunities for education. It’s a must read for careers advisers, practitioners and students alike.’

‘Having had the privilege of reviewing The Access to Higher Education Handbook I am delighted to endorse this invaluable resource for Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma students and educators. From the very first chapter, it is evident that this textbook has been meticulously written to support students at every step of their academic journey.

Each chapter is structured logically, guiding students through essential study skills required for their course. From navigating assignments to developing critical thinking skills, The Access to Higher Education Handbook equips students with the tools they need to succeed in their Access to HE Diplomas and beyond.

What sets this textbook apart is its accessibility. Written in a style that is not only easy to understand but also genuinely engaging, it ensures students will feel encouraged rather than intimidated as they delve into the material. With its user-friendly approach, I have no doubt that The Access to Higher Education Handbook will become an indispensable companion for Access to HE students.’

‘I'm thrilled and honoured to have been asked to endorse this fabulous book! Thoroughly researched and beautifully written, the student anecdotes which are weaved throughout, makes it a highly engaging and relatable read.  Packed with hints and tips, and immeasurably useful information to answer almost any question you can think of relating to the Access to HE Diploma, this book is long overdue.  It really does take you on the full learning journey from advice on study skills at the start to helping transition to HE at the end, you will always need this book by your side!  What makes it so uniquely brilliant, is its ability to reach a wide and diverse audience.  Whether you are a current or potential student, someone who supports students, an Access to HE tutor or a Higher Education professional, this book is a must have guide to this remarkable and transformative qualification. I wholeheartedly recommend this book.’

‘This book provides a great introduction to study for any Access to HE student.  It makes no assumptions of prior knowledge and takes the reader through the knowledge and skills that they will need to succeed on the Access to HE Diploma regardless of their subject area.  This ‘alpha to omega’ approach means it will become a most valuable tool for students as they begin and progress their studies.  It includes highly valuable information about the form and structure of the Access to HE Diploma, allowing the student to familiarize themselves with what terms like ‘Learning Outcomes’ and ‘Assessment Criteria’ mean, as well as the requirements of the Access Grading Standards model which will allow the student to understand what will be expected of them in their assessments.  It also provides an excellent introduction to the skills required by study, such as academic writing, critical thinking etc., which will allow the student to hone these skills as they progress through their programmes of study.  This really is a first in being written solely for Access to HE students and provides an excellent tailor-made companion for study for any Access to HE student.’

‘The Access to Higher Education Diploma is a unique qualification that has a life changing impact on those that complete it. Delivered in further education colleges across the UK, the Access to HE Diploma develops the skills, subject knowledge and confidence needed to succeed at higher levels of study.

The Access to Higher Education Handbook perfectly combines detailed, but accessible guidelines for skill development and an understanding of the nuances of the Access to HE Diploma. It provides Access to HE students with a comprehensive map to guide them through all aspects of an Access to HE Diploma from how it is structured, how it assessed and graded and how to prepare for and complete assessments to successfully to transitioning to higher education. Each chapter carefully breaks down the various skills that students will need to develop and apply in relation to the assessment activities they will encounter.

As a former Access to HE student, tutor and Access to HE Diploma provider, the author has presented an exceptional perspective that will be valued by students and Access to HE tutors alike. It brilliantly incorporates the student voice throughout the text by insightfully reflecting the questions, uncertainties, anxieties and aspirations of its readers.

The Access to Higher Education Handbook is an essential companion for anyone embarking on an Access to HE Diploma.’

• The tone is fantastic, clearly aimed at students and extremely accessible. I think it keeps the reader engaged.
• I love the student voice part. Especially the wording, I think calling it their 'voice' instead of quote or testimony shows how they are at the center of Access
• It starts with the basics making it not feel overwhelming, it should be obvious but it isn't always, nothing seems too little
• Love the questions, makes it really clear to see the example and have a chance to figure it out
• Everything at the end is amazing, each section has its purpose and I think students will find it so useful, especially being able to write notes.
• Overall I loved it!