The Step-In Module is a short course which will:

  • Help you to develop the skills you need to progress to a HE qualification which is relevant to your work at a university or college offering HE qualifications

• Build your confidence in your ability to progress to HE and to complete a relevant HE qualification successfully

• Show your employer that you have the higher level skills required for progression to a better paid and more responsible job.

• The course will develop the study skills you need for HE, and the skills you’ll develop on the Step-In Module will be valuable to you in your career as you will be encouraged on the course to communicate and present yourself at the level of someone in a managerial position. 

Completing the course takes 7 weeks and in addition to a 3 hour session at a delivery centre for each of the 7 weeks, there will be some work for you to complete by yourself.  Various start dates for the course are available as well as a variety of days and times when the course is offered, including early evening timeslots convenient for work-based learners.  Learners can choose which delivery centre, day and time and start date is most convenient for them.  

Is the Step-In Module for me?

Yes, if you have already completed an Advanced Apprenticeship or if you’re working towards completion. 

There is a course fee of £124 which may be paid by employers or by learners themselves.  However, in the pilot phase of the Step-In to HE Project, whoever has paid the course fee may be eligible for a grant covering a substantial part of the cost making the course a very cost effective step towards HE. 

Where can I take the Step-In Module?

Learners can choose the delivery centre most convenient for them.  Delivery centres for the Step-In Module include:

Oldham College

Skills Solutions, central Manchester

Stockport College

Wigan and Leigh College

What will happen when I have completed the Step-In Module?

When you complete the Step-In Module you will receive a university certificate worth 10 credits at Level 4 (the level of the first year of university study).

You will then be better prepared to go on to study a HE qualification such as a HNC or HND, a Foundation Degree, an Honours Degree, or one of the many professional qualifications available for work-based learners.  When you complete the Step-In Module you will get advice on the range of options open to you. 

The Step-In Module is validated by the University of Bolton, meaning that the content and standard of the course has been approved by the university and the certificate will carry the university’s name.

Where can I find out more about the Step-In Module?

In every borough in Greater Manchester there are Step-In contacts who give out information about the course, including information about grants and where the course is going to be delivered.  Complete the form below and you'll be put in touch with a contact from your area.