Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Business (RQF)
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Programme title: |
Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Business |
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Course ID: |
603/6837/8 |
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Qualification credit value: |
120 |
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Awarding body: |
Pearson Education Ltd |
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Accreditation by: |
Pearson Education Ltd |
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Delivered at: |
London School of Academics Ltd (Rainham Campus) |
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Name of final award: |
Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Business |
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Qualification framework: |
This is a recognised higher education qualification in the UK, it is in line with the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Additionally the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) and Subject Benchmark Statements. This qualification is part of the UK Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF). |
Aims of the programme:
This qualification provides a broad introduction to business and different business functions. It will develop and strengthen core skills while enabling the student to possess the necessary qualities to enter the job sector and/or it will prepare for the student to progress on to the Level 5 undertaking many specialist subjects.
The type of knowledge students will gain will be in relation to business, knowledge will be gained through research, independent study, directed study, workplace scenarios and much more. Vocational activities will support the student in the development of essential vocational behaviours which are both the approaches required for competence and the attitude. Students will gain many essential transferable skills which include research, analysis, teamwork and communication.
The overall aim of this qualification is to provide students with knowledge of basic business concepts and for them to have competency in a range of general skills, subject-specific skills as well as business qualities in relation to key areas of business.
Programme structure:
Students must meet 120 credits, therefore are required to study eight units in total. There are six core units and two optional units. Note that all units are a Level 4.
Unit grading: Pass, Merit or Distinction
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Core units: Mandatory |
1: Business and the Business Environment |
Unit credit: 15 |
Level 4 |
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2: Marketing Processes and Planning |
Unit credit: 15 |
Level 4 |
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3: Human Resource Management |
Unit credit: 15 |
Level 4 |
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4: Leadership and Management |
Unit credit: 15 |
Level 4 |
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5: Accounting Principles |
Unit credit: 15 |
Level 4 |
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6: Managing a Successful Business Project (Pearson Set) |
Unit credit: 15 |
Level 4 |
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Plus 30 credits from the Level 4 optional units |
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Optional units |
7: Business Law |
Unit credit: 15 |
Level 4 |
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17: Professional Identity and Practice |
Unit credit: 15 |
Level 4 |
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The optional units have been selected from the qualification list, these units offered reflect a diverse team skill set to ensure the highest quality of teaching. Note that optional units can be subject to change but advanced notification will be provided.
Total qualification time is 1,200 hours, this captures Guided Learning Hours at 480 hours and Independent Learning Hours at 720.
Teaching, learning and assessment:
This qualification will be delivered as a full-time programme, the days of study will be communicated to potential students at the start of our enrolment period when they enquire to ensure they are able to meet the required commitment. This qualification will be delivered on campus (face to face), however there will be some blended learning which includes online tutorials and use of a VLE environment. The programme will consist of a variety of approaches from classroom-based learning, work-based learning, live zooms or telephone tutorials, and/or live e-learning, all of which are supervised by a tutor. All students are expected to attend all sessions and programme related activities to ensure the achievement of this programme`s aims. Students are to note that employment engagement is an embedded feature of this programme structure. Students are expected to undertake independent learning. Which can include self-directed research and investigation, reading of set texts or other sources of information, watching subject-related videos, reviewing recordings of scheduled sessions or notes from those sessions, peer activities, such as group meetings and online discussions as well as reviewing and recording thoughts on their own learning.
Students are to note that Maths and English are embedded within the curriculum, because these skills are essential for employment. Students can therefore expect to build on these skills through many activities such as report writing, formal presentations, informal conversations, and use of sector language.
Students will undergo assessment both on an initial, formative and summative level. A variety of assessment methods may therefore be used, all assessments enable the necessary data to be gathered and support the learner`s personal development. Assessment methods could include research, practical tasks, presentations, coursework and questioning.
Unit assessment methods will be made clear at the start of the programme, students however must complete all eight units to pass this qualification. Grading is set at Pass, Merit or Distinction. Note that to ensure we align with quality requirements all assessments activities are subject to internal and external quality assurance monitoring and checks.
Student support:
Students will be supported with academic and pastoral support to ensure their wellbeing.
Programme outcomes including teaching, learning and assessment:
The Level 4 Higher National Certificate provides a students will a knowledge foundation in business, this enables them to entre employment using such or continuation of studies, continuation onto the Level 5.
Where do I study?
We are located at CEME Campus, therefore, this would be the premise by which you will attend lectures. The Campus has a car park which students can park at a discounted rate of £1.50 a day. Those that want to make use of the car park must inform a member of our team in advance for a promotion code to receive the discounted rate otherwise the normal rate charged will apply. The CEME campus has step-free access, lifts and disabled toilets.
Key Qualification Information
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Entry requirements: |
There are no set entry requirements provided by the awarding body therefore the following have been set by us to ensure that candidate is able to meet the demands of the qualification:
-Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level B2 -PTE Academic 51, or -IELTS 5.5 (reading and writing must be at 5.5) -Note that all students are required to pass an English and Maths diagnostic assessments, conducted by us during the admission`s process. Candidates will benefit from having one of the following:
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Study level: |
4 |
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Qualification length: |
45 weeks (academic term time) |
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Qualification fees: |
£6000 in total (student finance available subject to eligibility) The above amount is to be paid over three terms |
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Registration fee: |
TBD before the start of the qualification as all candidates must be registered with Pearsons. |
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Other costs likely to incur: |
Personal study materials, such as books |
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Next intake: |
September 2024 |
How to contact us?
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Address: |
London School of Academics
CEME RM13 8EU |
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Telephone: |
0208 5967 036 or 07731074619 |
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Email: |
info@londonschoolofacademics.com |
Admissions policy
Admissions Policy-Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Business (HNC)
London School of Academics is committed to ensuring a fair process is operated when recruiting and selecting candidates for the qualifications we offer. To achieve a fair process, we work in accordance with the UK Quality Code. The following sets out the stages of the qualification admissions process.
Stage One: Initial Contact
All candidates interested in studying the qualification are required to call the office to indicate their interest in studying it. Where they are interested in applying for the qualification they will be required to undergo a phone interview where questions will be asked on the candidate`s interest for doing the course and on the entry requirements (stated below).
Entry requirements as set out by London School of Academics:
• Candidates must be age 18 or above.
• Candidates must have an O Level Maths and English (A-C) or GCSE in Maths and English (A-C) or Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy, or equivalent. Evidence must be shown.
Candidates can apply to complete Literacy and Numeracy Level 2 at London School of Academics. (awarding body City and Guilds)
Following a successful phone interview, the admissions team will inform the candidate of the next available Open day where the candidate can visit the College. In the event that the candidate wants to apply for the qualification formally, they will be interviewed on the day of their visit and must bring with them relevant certificates, a passport. Candidates that require special arrangements when they attend the Open day should inform the admissions team personnel before visiting.
Stage Two: Open Day
The second stage of the admissions process involves candidates attending an Open day where they can be given a tour of our campus. They will be informed of our mission, qualification details including duration, unit break down, entry requirements, support available and environment. In addition, they will meet the teaching team, alumni and current learners where available. At the Open day as mentioned in Stage One, a candidate can choose to apply for the qualification. This will involve a face to face interview and the completion of an enrolment form, a subject based initial assessment and a Health questionnaire. All interviewers use a standardised interviewing checklist to ensure fairness of the process and will request to see documentation to verify candidate qualifications.
Documentation includes:
- Original passport (for photocopying)
- Driving License (for Photocopying)
- A passport size photo
· Original certificates for English and Maths (O Level Maths and English (A-C) or GCSE in Maths and English (A-C) or Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy or equivalent). Note this is for photocopying.
Stage Three: Presentation and reference request.
Following the completion of the second stage, candidates who meet the entry requirements will be invited to deliver a 10–15-minute research presentation on a provided topic relating to business. Candidates must use a PowerPoint presentation designed by themselves. Candidates will be assessed on their ability to research, the presentation of their findings, use of ICT and the manner by which they present. Presentations will be observed by members of the admissions team. To ensure a fair observation an observation report is completed, this sets out the criteria by which candidates are assessed. The admissions team observers provide candidates with feedback following their presentation. In the event that the admission team observers have the opinion that a second opportunity to present should be given, this can be granted.
Where candidates meet observation criteria successfully, they will be requested to provide an academic reference to the admissions team within 14 days, in the event that an academic reference cannot be provided within this time frame candidates will not receive an unconditional offer as this will be pending. In the event that a reference cannot be provided this will be considered during the fourth stage of the admissions process including the candidate's reasons for such.
Stage Four: Review
Following the application for the qualification, the admissions team will consider all applications by reviewing all enrolment forms, initial assessments, interview scripts, observation reports and the feedback from interviewers as well as the observers. The selection of candidates for entry onto the course of study will be based on entry requirements as well as merit, ability and potential which is measured by academic achievements, commitment and attitude. This stage could take up to a maximum of three weeks depending on the volume of candidates applying. Candidate applications are also considered in line with the Fitness to Practise Procedure under the Policies and Information tab of our website.
Stage Five: Feedback
The fifth stage involves the admissions team communicating the outcome of the fourth stage to each candidate. Successful candidates will be informed of whether they have been accepted on a conditional or unconditional offer through an offer letter. Unsuccessful candidates will be contacted through a phone or email, and/or a letter where necessary.
Accepted candidates:
Where a candidate is accepted onto the qualification, they will be given an unconditional or conditional offer.
Unconditional offer: this results in the candidate being accepted without any conditions to fulfil. They will be booked to attend their Final Admissions Meeting and Fee completion. If the information requested is not provided during the initial stages, then an opportunity is given to provide the information/evidence at the Final Admissions Meeting.
Conditional Offer: Candidates who are not fully successful, however, are still potential are given a conditional offer, they will be advised on how to meet the criteria to be successful.
Where candidates have a conditional offer due to a pending academic reference, they cannot fully enrol on the qualification without this being received, note that this could result in the candidate re-applying for the next intake.
Where a candidate has a conditional offer due to evidence not being presented for English and Maths then the candidate will be given an option to undertake a Level 2 Literacy or/and Numeracy qualification, this process can take up to six weeks (awarding body is City and Guilds). It must be stated that without evidence of English and Maths or equivalent (see entry requirements) entry requirements will not be met resulting in unsuccessful enrolment and loss of conditional offer. Candidates can re-apply for the next intake.
Stage Six: Final Admissions Meeting and Fees Completion
Candidates with unconditional offers will be invited to a meeting with the admissions team to register for the qualification. Candidates provided with a conditional offer will be invited to a meeting with the admissions team to present any outstanding documentation and register for the qualification. Registration involves the payment of TBD (card payment of full amount). During this meeting, assistance can be provided where a candidate wants to apply for Student Finance however this can only be done after registration onto the qualification. Following registration, we will keep the candidate updated with information regarding the start of the qualification and induction day.
Candidates must note that in the event false documentation, information (including inaccurate information) are presented and/or there are concerns with the candidate, the Director of the College reserves the right to retract the offer of entry onto the qualification and where registration fee has been paid this would be non-refundable.
All documentation and data collected will be kept in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (2018). Note that admissions team must see originals and keep copies of the following:
• Original certificates (these will be photocopied)
• Passport (this will be photocopied)
• Driving license (this will be photocopied)
Induction Process
To ensure the transition from candidate to learner all those registered on the qualification must attend an induction day. If a candidate fails to attend an induction day, they may lose their place on the qualification unless a valid reason is given with attendance of an alternative induction day.
On the induction day learners will be informed of policies, our procedures, expectations from us and what learners can expect from the Higher National Certificate in Business. Learners will meet the teaching team and their peers. They will be given an information booklet and a course handbook. They will complete initial assessments including the writing of a contextual statement. They will be given a tour of the premises and informed about Health and Safety.
Furthermore, learners will be required to sign a learning agreement between themselves and the London School of Academics.
Appeal Procedure
In the event a candidate is refused acceptance on the qualification they can appeal the decision on the grounds that documentation was not properly considered, the interview was inappropriately conducted and/or circumstances have changed (including the meeting of entry requirements). The following details the procedure for an appeal.
1. The candidate must within seven days from the decision communicated to them put in writing their intention to appeal a decision including the relevant grounds with any evidence to support and email it to the Director of the College (Sheila Singh) at sheila@londonschoolofacademics.com
2. The Director will consider the appeal with the admissions team reviewing the grounds and evidence within seven working days.
3. A written response will be provided to the candidate appealing through email.
Appeal Procedure
In the event a candidate is refused acceptance on the qualification they can appeal the decision on the grounds that documentation was not properly considered, the interview was inappropriately conducted and/or circumstances have changed (including the meeting of entry requirements). The following details the procedure for an appeal.
1. The candidate must within seven days from the decision communicated to them put in writing their intention to appeal a decision including the relevant grounds with any evidence to support and email it to the Director of the College (Sheila Singh) at sheila@londonschoolofacademics.com
2. The Director will consider the appeal with the admissions team reviewing the grounds and evidence within seven working days.
3. A written response will be provided to the candidate appealing through email.
Complaint Policy
London School of Academics has a robust admissions process to ensure transparency and fairness when we enrol for our courses, however we understand that there may be times where applicants may have matters of concern which they want to raise. The following sets out complaint resolution procedures that should be followed.
Informal Complaints Resolution Procedure:
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Where there is a matter of concern an applicant is encouraged before formally complaining to seek resolution informally through raising the concern with the relevant person/s concerned. |
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Where the above is not effective, preferred or satisfied by the applicant then an applicant should raise the concerns with the Admission team lead. All applicant complaints are dealt with without bias. |
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Where a resolution has not been reached or the applicant is not satisfied they should seek a resolution through the Formal Complaints Resolution Procedure. In the event that an informal resolution to a complaint is not possible the applicant should follow the Formal Complaint Resolution Procedure. |
Formal Complaints Resolution Procedure:
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An applicant who wishes to make a formal complaint should complete the Complaints Form and send it (post) to Administration team within 30 days of when the cause for complaint occurred. The Complaints Form can be accessed from this policy and can be sent electronically where requested from the Administration team. If the informal complaint resolution route had been taken causing the applicant to formally submit the Complaints Form beyond the 30 days this will be taken into account and the investigation into the complaint will proceed. |
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Notification of receipt of the Complaint Form will be given to the applicant making the complaint from the administration office through phone, email or letter no later than 7 working days after receipt. |
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Administration will forward the Complaint Form to the Director or nominated person not subject of the complaint. It will then be decided if the complaint should proceed or not. In either event the Director or nominated person will inform the applicant of the decision within 10 working days in writing. Where complaints do not proceed, full disclosure of reasons will be provided to the applicant who made the complaint. Where a complaint is to proceed those subject of the complaint will be notified of the complaint within 10 working days of the decision to proceed. They will along with notification receive a copy of the Complaint Form. |
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Those subject to the complaint will have the opportunity to provide a formal response to the complaint made within a time frame of 20 working days. |
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The applicant who made the complaint will be sent the formal response of the person who is subject to it. The applicant will have an opportunity to make comment on the factual accuracy of the response within 20 days. |
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The Director (unless the complaint is lodged against them) will along with the Internal Quality Assurance team reach a decision on the standing of the complaint and reach a resolution which will be communicated to both the applicant and the person subject to the complaint. Communication will be done in written form within 20 days of receiving the applicant’s comments on the factual accuracy of response. In the event that complaints are logged against the Director or any member of the Internal Quality Assurance team, appropriate nominated personnel will investigate the complaint reaching a decision on it`s standing and reach a resolution. Nominated personnel could include representatives of City and Guilds (the awarding body). |
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Where an applicant is not satisfied with the outcome of a complaint they could make a request with the Office of Independent Adjudicators (OIA) for an independent review. More information can be found on the OIA website: http://www.oiahe.org.uk/ |
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- London School of Academics
- CEME Campus
- Marsh Way
- Rainham
- Essex
- RM13 8EU
- T: 0208 596 7036