HNC ADDITIONAL SUPPORT NEEDS

Intro to the course:

The HNC Additional Support Needs aims to embrace the needs of the sector and to reflect current initiatives and directives in this field. This course will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to work effectively in this field. 

You will complete the HNC Additional Support Needs award and in Year 2 you will complete the HND Additional Support Needs. 

This is the only nationally recognised and certificated HNC award for the Additional Support Needs sector in Scotland. 

You will spend 2 days per week in college and 2 days in placement. 

Who is the course for?

The HNC is aimed at candidates who wish to enhance their skills while in employment, change career or start a career in the wide field of education. e.g. Candidates may work or wish to work with children; 

• as an assistant within a mainstream or specialised school
• as an assistant in social service settings
• as a practitioner in an Early Learning and Childcare setting. 

What will I study?

Next step course options

On completion of this course, you may progress to study HND Additional Support Needs at South Lanarkshire College or  to a number of degree courses in Scotland and beyond.

How will I be assessed?

Throughout the course, you will be assessed through a range of methods including essays, reports, podcasts and practical activities. 

Why should I choose this course?

At present, 18% of children in ELC funded places have a diagnosed ASN across Scotland (Scottish Government, 2023) and 30.9% of children and young people in our schools have an additional support need. Lack of resources, particularly human resource, is regularly cited as the largest challenge to inclusive pedagogy. This course will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to work effectively in this field to support children and young people. 

Where can this course lead?

Learners will hold HNC Additional Support Needs. This qualification allows learners to register with the Scottish Social Services Council as a Practitioner in the Day Care of Children. 

What are the entry requirements?

You will need one or more of the following to be considered for a place on this course;

• Two Highers
• Foundation Apprenticeship in Social Services for Children and Young People
• NC Early Education and Childcare
• SWAP Access to Childhood Practice or equivalent 
• SVQ level 2  
• PDA Education Support Assistance

• It is also desirable for you to have some experience of working with children (although this is not essential). 

What are the interview arrangements?

You will be invited to interview at South Lanarkshire College

Fees, finance and funding:

Fees and finances for full time:

There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds.

Click here to find out more about fees, finance and funding options.

Other information: