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Adults

Access To Higher Education

We offer a fantastic Access To Higher Education course for adults aged 19 and over, who are looking to return to education after a break.

Students will develop the knowledge, study skills and confidence needed to progress to Higher Education, while enhancing their academic writing, research, critical thinking and independent learning skills. Throughout the course, they will be supported by experienced tutors who will help prepare them for the demands of university-level study and their chosen career pathway.

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West Lancashire College Monday 12th October 2026 4:30pm - 7:00pm Find out more

Access To Higher Education: Nursing (Full Time)

Our 1-year full-time Access to Higher Education: Nursing course prepares adults for university, covering human biology, anatomy, physiology, genetics, and health and social care, while developing essential academic skills.

Length: 34 Weeks
Study: Full Time
Start date: 7th September 2026
Location: West Lancashire College

View Course

100%*

pass rate for Access to Higher Education

*data from Proachieve September 2024

8

subject areas to choose from

Good

Ofsted Report 2024

Lynsey Makin

Head of Curriculum for Health, Education and Foundation Learning

I am an experienced educator with a background in the health and care sectors. I am passionate about supporting learners on their educational journey and take great satisfaction in seeing them achieve their goals and progress into rewarding careers. I am proud to be part of a highly effective team that combines high expectations with a caring and nurturing approach. Together, we strive to equip our learners with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to recognise their potential, achieve their ambitions, and succeed in their future careers.

Paula Cunningham

Access To Higher Education Lecturer

With extensive experience teaching Health and Social Care across all levels, I have worked with a range of colleges and awarding organisations to develop and deliver high-quality qualifications that support learner success. I am passionate about helping students achieve their full potential and progress into rewarding careers within the health sector. As Course Leader for Access to Higher Education at West Lancashire College, I am committed to providing an outstanding learning experience that prepares students for successful progression to university. Working closely with NHS professionals, local care providers and partner universities, we have designed a curriculum that reflects both local and national skills needs, ensuring learners are equipped with the knowledge and confidence required for higher-level study and future employment. My industry experience spans the health and fitness sector, alongside supporting Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust (LSCFT) with the recruitment and training of Mental Health Care Assistants for a purpose-built mental health hospital. These experiences have given me valuable insight into the realities of modern healthcare, which I bring into the classroom through engaging lessons, real-world case studies and practical skills development. I take great pride in creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students can build confidence, develop industry-relevant skills and take the next step towards achieving their career ambitions.

Caroline Stewart

Access to Higher Education Lecturer

With over 30 years of experience in the sport and fitness industry and more than 13 years as an educational practitioner, I bring a wealth of expertise and passion to my role as an Anatomy and Physiology lecturer. My background in sports massage therapy and personal training enhances my teaching, particularly when delivering Human Physiology modules on the Access to Higher Education programme. As a local female educator, I am proud to support adults within the community as they work towards achieving their academic and personal goals. It is incredibly rewarding to see learners succeed, and many of my former students have progressed to university and gone on to build successful careers in health, sport, and fitness. Driven by a belief in lifelong learning and the power of education to transform lives, I am passionate about inspiring, motivating, and guiding learners on their journey towards higher education and future career success.