How to become an access HE centre

Becoming an access HE centre is quite straightforward.  

If you already deliver some kind of vocational training, you'll know the score. You need to register as a recognised centre, complete an approval process and decide what you want to deliver. Then you can register students and you're good to go.  

Okay, so it's a little more complicated than that - so we've put together this step-by-step guide to help.  

1. Decide your diplomas 

There's a huge range of courses to choose from. The most popular subjects by far are those associated with medicine and midwifery - like biological sciences - but other subjects like law, admin and creative arts aren't far behind.  

2. Choose your AVA 

When you've decided which subjects you'd like to deliver, you can look for an AVA (access validating agency) to work with. Most AVAs only support centes in their local region and only those that deliver specific subjects - but you can also find large national centres, so do your research.  

3. Become a recognised provider 

Next, you'll need to become a recognised provider with your AVA. The process varies a little depending on the AVA, but it's usually pretty straightforward. You'll just need be approved as a centre and have your qualification approved for delivery. Your AVA will guide you through the whole process, so there's nothing to worry about. 

4. Train your staff  

If your team is new to access HE diplomas, they'll probably need some training to get started. Access HE courses have a familiar structure to other vocational programmes, but the grading can be quite different.  

5. Start delivery!  

85% of students completing access HE courses are over 21, and have to fit studying around other responsibilities. Using tech to deliver programmes online gives people the flexibility they need - and it means delivery is cheaper, more convenient and easier to manage.  

At Onefile, our learning software is already used by centres to deliver HE access courses - from midwifery to art and design. Centres can create their own content, plan activities, set assignments, mark work and collaborate online. And students can work in a way that suits them wherever they are.  

To find out more about Onefile and how it can be used to deliver HE access courses, download our free guide.