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). 

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

As part of this course, you will gain: 

• 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 

SCQF Level 6

Available to: S5, S6

This Foundation Apprenticeship in Business Skills will help you discover what a career in business would be like.  By learning about a variety of business activates including marketing, procurement, supply chain management and enterprise, you will: 

• 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

Allowing you to progress onto further study, this course will enable you to build the skills and knowledge needed within the Business and Finance industry.  

As part of this course, 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 level 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 knowledge and skills required for capturing and editing sound, image, and video. 

As part of the course ,you will:  

• Have the opportunity to follow a development lifecycle from planning through to design, and then on to creation and editing
• Develop a practical written element detailing the planning through to the creation of the portfolio

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

Esports is a growing industry 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. It will look at the history of Esports as well as how to get into the industry. 

As part of this course, 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 
• work in groups to complete tasks 

SCQF Level 4
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This Foundation Apprenticeship 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. 

As part of this course, you will study: 

• Brickwork: An introduction 
• Carpentry and Bench Joinery: An introduction
• Painting and Decorating: An Introduction 
• An introduction to Plumbing and Electrical Skills 
• Understanding Industry 
• Personal Development: Self and Work 
• Work Based Skills Challenge - Construction 

You will also work on a project involving local employers using the skills from all the trades that you will learn. 

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

Allowing you to gain an understanding of different aspects of mental health, this course will develop your knowledge of the connectivity of the body and mind. As part of this course, you will explore: 

• the psychology of various mental health conditions, and the effects other factors can have on this including trauma, substances and addictions
• 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
• positive and negative coping strategies to mental health and examine different resources available to support you personally and within the wider community
• what active listening is and the importance of effective communication as you develop interpersonal skills and examine the importance and impact this can have on employability and progression

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.   

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This course will give you an engaging and practical introduction to the world of theatre and performance whilst still studying at School 

Designed for aspiring actors, you will:  

• explore a range of performance styles and techniques, gaining confidence through practical workshops with an opportunity to perform in a live performance
• develop your creativity, collaboration, and self-expression, building discipline and professionalism essential for the industry 
• study key aspects of theatre production and performance theory, preparing for further study or entry-level roles in the creative arts

This course includes: 

• 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 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

Offering an introduction to Dance this National Progression Award (NPA) allows you to explore choreography and gain an appreciation of dance skills and techniques. 

As part of this course, you will 

• develop knowledge, understanding and skills in choreography and two different styles of Contemporary and Alternative
• research and analyse dance styles and practitioners, putting learning into context

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5

Blending classroom learning with hands-on industry experience, this Foundation Apprenticeship will allow you to gain a real understanding of how the creative industries work while working with practicing industry professionals and artists. 

As part of this course, you will gain: 

• A National Progression Award (NPA) 
• Units in storytelling, creative briefs, presenting ideas, teamwork, and freelance career management 
• Practical skills: video, audio, graphic design, animation, photography, web development 

You will also undertake a work placement during the second year of the course. There, you will experience working with clients to create digital visual and audio products, furthering your understanding of how to build professional relationships and develop creative solutions. 

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This course will allow you to understand the role of marketing, advertising, or information gathering within a creative context.  

Comprised of modules from our Foundation Apprenticeship in Creative and Digital Media you will study: 

• An Introduction to Creative Industries in Scotland 
• Understanding a Creative Client Brief 
• Understanding the Creative Media Process 
• Storytelling for the Creative Industries 
• Practical skills: video, audio, graphic design, animation, photography, web development 

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

These courses introduce you to the knowledge and experience of the skills required to work in the Childcare industry.  

As part of these courses, you will study: 

• Child Development 
• Working in Early Education and Childcare 
• Play in Early Education and Childcare 
• Contemporary Families 

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This Foundation Apprenticeship in Social Services - Children and Young People helps you discover what a career working with young people is all about.  

As part of this course, you will: 

• understand the values and principles that underpin childcare before applying to practice whilst on work placement 
• gain the skills of investigating, analysing, evaluating and presenting information 
• discover the knowledge and understanding of the subject area 
• gain vocational and employability skills including timekeeping, attendance, team working, communication and demonstrating value-based practice

You will undertake units from the SVQ in Social Services - Children and Young People through a work experience placement in a relevant play work and childcare setting.  

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 4
Available to: S4, S5, S6

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

By developing employability skills required in the Automotive Industry and wider job market, you will:  

• learn Health and Safety aspects through undertaking a range of workshop activities e.g., through the removal and replacement of certain components 
• learn how to carry out service, inspection and modification of light vehicles   
• learn to valet cars to an acceptable standard 
• undertake online research to discover the work involved in running a large car dealership and visit local companies
• undertake small project work involving modification of systems on a vehicle, e.g. fitting extra lights, reversing sensors or perhaps a towbar will be undertaken 
• take part in work-based skills challenges 

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

Built from four SCQF Level 7 modules, this course, which is the only one of its kind in Scotland, has been designed to develop the skills needed to work within the Engineering industry. 

As part of this course, 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

This course 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. 

As part of this course, you will: 

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

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course is accepted as – as an equivalent to Higher English - entry to colleges and universities, including for studies in Medicine, Law, Engineering and PGDE in Secondary School Teaching.  

As part of this course, you will learn: 

• 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

Consisting of four beauty therapy related modules, this course will enable you to develop industry related practical and vocational skills as you: 

• Learn how to behave and work safely and professionally in the salon 
• Work practically, discovering skin care techniques and pressure point massage on the face and scalp 
• Recognise different coping strategies and the differing modes of assistance that are available, both informal and professional 
• Carry out practical treatments on the hands and feet (including nail care, massage, with nail painting) 
• Get an insight into gel nails and nail art techniques 

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

This course provides an opportunity for you to engage in a range of activities designed to develop broad based skills in health and social care. 

Developing your leadership role within a variety of health and social care settings, you will:  

• demonstrate and develop their ability to lead as well as work as part of a team and to work within a multidisciplinary environment, adhering to professional standards and values
• theory to practice and to reflect on the skills required to become a registered practitioner within the health and social care field
• develop skills which allow you to work with a variety of patients/clients/individuals in different health and social care settings and to practice in an ant-discriminatory way.  

PLEASE NOTE: This course is made up of a cluster of modules in our HNC Healthcare Practice and HNC Social Services 

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

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

As part of this course, you will study: 

• communication in care relationships 
• safeguarding people  
• social services in Scotland 
• safe practice and wellbeing in social services  
• human development and social influences 

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

This Foundation Apprenticeship in Social Services and Healthcare will help you discover what a career in care is all about.  

As part of this course, you will 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 
• employability skills of timekeeping, attendance, team working, communication and demonstrating value-based practice

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 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

With growing demand for quality and varieties of breads and flour confectionery made by traditional methods there has never been a better time to boost your craft baking skills.  

This course has designed to equip you with the skills, experience and knowledge to produce your own in-house speciality breads and pastries whether you are a home baker or looking to get into the baking industry. 

As part of this course, you will study: 

• Craft Baking 
• Bread 
• Cake Decorating 
• Pastry 

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course will allow you to learn about the human body, what it is capable of, how to prevent and recover from injuries, and the professional way Sports Therapy is delivered.  

As part of this course, you will study: 

• Anatomy for Manual Therapy 
• 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.   

As part of this course, you will study: 

• Introduction to Soft Tissue Therapy
• 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 will develop your 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
• Understand biodiversity and interdependence 
• Explore the processes leading to evolution, food security and ethical issues

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

The course provides a comprehensive understanding of biology, covering topics from DNA and the genome to metabolism, survival, and biodiversity. 

As part of this course, you will: 

• develop key scientific skills, including analytical thinking and problem-solving 
• evaluate the impact of scientific developments on health and wellbeing, society and the environment 
• be able to adapt to new situations and make decisions based on evidence
• be prepared students for further study in life sciences or related fields

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

This course will allow you to pursue a career in science, food, health, textile or manufacturing industries. 

Though experimental and investigative approach you will:  

• Develop knowledge and understanding of chemical concepts 
• Develop an understanding in the production of everyday commodities with chemistry research and development being essential for the introduction of new products 

SCQF Level 6
Available to: S5, S6

Through an experimental and investigative approach, this course will allow you to develop knowledge and understanding of chemical concepts.  

As part of this course, 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 the practical assignment 

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course will allow you 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 will allow to examine the complex interactions between humans and the environment, covering ecosystems, Earth's resources, and sustainability.  

As part of this course, you will:  

• build scientific knowledge and practical skills through key environmental issues like climate change, pollution, and biodiversity
• take part in a range of assessment types, including a practical assignment and an end of year exam

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 will allow you to examine different aspects of Criminology including 

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

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

This course explores politics, political concepts and theories of the state. 

As part of this course, you will: 

• develop your critical thinking  
• explore key political concepts like accountability, citizenship, democracy, equality, justice, liberty, power, authority or rights  
• formulate an increased understanding of modern political systems
• study some of the political structures within the UK including Westminster and the Scottish Parliament 
• look at the work of pressure groups in our society 

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

This course will allow you to develop your knowledge and understanding of human behaviour.  

Focusing 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 allows you to explore conformity and obedience to find out how people behave as individuals, as a group, and why they obey. You will also explore sleep and dreams to understand why humans need sleep, and memory, to consider different explanations for the memory system. 

As part of this course, you will develop: 

• knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts, theories, and terminology 
• the ability to use thinking skills when analysing, evaluating and applying knowledge and understanding of psychology 
• an understanding of the role of research evidence in explaining human behaviour 
• research skills to select, organise, interpret and evaluate information 
• the ability to plan and carry out psychological research, using appropriate methods and according to ethical and scientific standards 
• communication and numeracy skills used in psychology 

SCQF Level 7
Available to: S6

This course explores the historical development of psychology since the 19th Century, the four major schools of thought that have influenced development, and the psychologists who have shaped the discipline.  

It will cover the theory and research evidence relating to three psychological topics – Memory, Attachment, and Psychopathology.  

As part of this course, you will:  

• conduct research into a psychological topic
• 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

This course explores the complex relationship between the individual and society including public service, criminal justice, health, business and advertising. 

As part of this course, you will: 

• Gain an academic and practical understanding of key social concepts like socialisation and social order  
• Be encouraged to question and explore why society is organised the way it is
• Consider society, from its origin to its development, and how it’s explained by competing perspectives

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.

As part of this course, 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 

This course consists of 3 SCQF Level 5 units which includes Developing Leadership, Organising and Officiating plus Physical Activities, Industry Practice and Placement

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.) 

You will: 

• Develop employability skills with uniformed services 
• Participate and evaluate practical activities in relation to chosen profession 
• Understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the physical fitness levels required within the services 
• Build your knowledge of risk assessments and dealing with emergencies 
• Understand the local community and the role people employed within the services play 
• Understand the importance of team working and relevance to the services 

As part of this course, you will study: 

•  An Introduction into Uniformed Services
• Engaging within the Community 
• Health/Safety/Fitness 
• Wellbeing plus Working in Teams 

SCQF Level 5
Available to: S4, S5, S6

Ideal for those interested in progressing into the fitness and health industry, this course provides a strong foundation in health, physical activity and wellbeing, combining practical exercise skills with key knowledge of the body, nutrition, and lifestyle.   

As part of this course, you will: 

• demonstrate safe and effective participation in a range of exercise and fitness activities, including circuit training and contemporary training methods 
• apply knowledge of human anatomy and physiology to understand how physical activity impacts the body 
• evaluate their own technical abilities and reflect on performance in exercise delivery 
• recognise the role of nutrition and key lifestyle factors in influencing health and wellbeing 
• apply strategies for managing stress and promoting positive wellbeing 
• build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to progress within the fitness, health, and wellbeing sector