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NRC Logo

Course Code
PFFN01200
Level
Level 1
Course Type
Further Education
Study Mode
Full-time
Duration
2 years
Start & End
1 September 2025 - 4 June 2027
Location
Newtownabbey
Interview Required?
Yes

This is a full time course for people who may experience learning difficulties/disabilities. This course will help prepare you for the world of work or further education courses. You will be able to build on the skills you already have and learn new skills.

This is a full-time course for young people who experience learning difficulties and/or disabilities.

  • Learning Support
  • Small supported classes
  • Opportunities to participate in educational and industrial visits
  • Residential activities

Will I get paid?
You can apply for the Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA). You can get advice on other benefits from your local Jobs and Benefits office.

Travel
Applications for assistance with travel costs can be made to your local Educational and Library Board. 

Holidays
The course takes the standard Northern Regional College holidays –these are updated every year and are available on our website www.nrc.ac.uk. On commencing the course, you will be given a list of dates.

You will sample a range of vocational areas working toward a Level 1 qualification in Vocational Skills. You will gain employability skills and work towards a qualification in this area. You will also have the opportunity to participate in work experience.

Qualifications on offer

  • OCNNI Level 1 Award in Retail Business
  • OCNNI Level 1 Award in Introduction to the Hospitality Industry
  • OCNNI Level 1 Award in Progression to Employment
  • OCNNI Level 1 Award in Social Media 
  • Essential Skills ICT
  • Essential Skills AON
  • Essential Skills Communication

Qualifications will depend on the level of the students’ abilities. Curriculum offer is subject to review and viable course provisions.

You can progress to a range of part-time programmes designed specifically for students with mild to complex needs.

Over 90% of students on this course progress to further education or employment.

Applicants must be at least 16 years of age on or before 1 July in the year of proposed entry to the course. There are no formal entry requirements, however applicants are required to attend an informal interview with the course coordinator. In the instance of oversubscription, entry requirements may be enhanced and you will be advised of this at interview.

Course Fees

This course is free of charge.

Further Education (Level 1-3) full-time courses including Apprenticeships have no course fees for most students:

Level 3 Further Education (full-time)

There are no tuition fees for Level 1 - 3 full-time students aged between 16 and 18.

If you are aged 19-24 and have already achieved a Level 3 qualification, fees will apply. Details of fees are available from any campus reception.

If you are aged 25 or older, fees will apply unless in receipt of a FE grant. (If you are aged 25 or older, admission to a full-time Further Education course will be considered on an individual basis at the College's discretion).

Level 3 Access Courses (full-time)

If you are in receipt of a FE grant, no fees apply.

If you are aged 19 or older and have already achieved a Level 3 qualification (3 A Level equivalent), fees will apply.

Details of fees are available from any campus reception.

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