Community Connections: Access to Further Education SCQF Level 4/5
Study mode: You take fewer course units/modules per week compared to full time.
Course type: SCQF Level 4/5
Start in: October
Learning mode: You attend classes in person at the local campus or learning centre.
Duration: Run over one semester
How: You attend classes at scheduled times, shown on your timetable.
What is special about this course?
Are you ready to try something new, build your confidence, and figure out your next steps, but are not sure where to start?
This course offers a relaxed, supportive way to get back into learning and discover what you're good at.
You won't just be sitting in a classroom. As a group, you'll choose a local cause that you care about and figure out the best way to support it. You'll be the ones making the decisions, identifying what needs to be done, planning the activities, raising the money and seeing the results of your hard work in the real world.
Designed for young people who want a fresh start; this short, part-time programme helps you rebuild routines, develop essential skills, and work on a real community project that makes a difference. There are no tests, no exams, and no pressure - just practical activities, teamwork, and opportunities to grow.
There are no set criteria for entry. However, this course is ideal if you:
- Are thinking about leaving school
- Have been out of education for a while
- Want to build confidence before starting a bigger course
- Prefer hands-on, practical learning
- Are looking for a supportive, friendly environment
We welcome referrals from schools, SDS, social work, and other agencies - as well as direct applications.
You'll work with your fellow students on a project to raise money for a charity or local cause of your choice. You decide:
- The charity
- The fundraising idea
- How to plan and organise everything
- How to promote it to the community
Along the way you'll build skills in teamwork, communication, problem-solving, confidence, digital skills, and planning. All the things employers look for.
How will I study my course?
- Part Time
- Face to face
- Classroom
- Some outdoor activities
By working on a project that matters, you'll naturally pick up skills that employers look for, such as team working, problem solving, using digital tools and communication. It is about building the kind of confidence that comes from taking a project from an idea to a reality.
How long will my course last?
1 Academic YearCapped at 10 places
- UHI Orkney, Kirkwall
Start date
- Initial induction/acclimatisation period: October to January
- Course Start: Semester 2 (running for one semester)
Fees
For finance/funding information – please refer to UHI Orkney Finance.
For course fees – please email ocrevenue@uhi.ac.uk
Additional costs
For finance/funding information - please refer to UHI Orkney Finance
For course fees - please email ocrevenue@uhi.ac.uk
What can I do on completion of my course?
After completing the course, you'll have the skills and confidence to move on to:
- Other FE courses at UHI Orkney
- Vocational pathways and training
- Volunteering or entry-level employment
We'll help you explore your options and choose the route that suits you best.
Apply for Community Connections: Access to Further Education
We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI Orkney. UHI Orkney operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.