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THC Courses

AS/A Level Maths

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Study Times: 
Part of Full Time Programme
Level: 
AS Level
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year AS Level, 2 years for full A Level
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

Maths is one of our major strengths at Tower Hamlets College. We have a strong record of success, and have taken part in all the new developments in mathematics teaching and learning over the last six years. Our teachers are very well qualified and will offer you support at all stages of your maths education. 

We have a wide and exciting range of subjects. AS Mathematics is our standard maths course. We also offer AS/A2 Further Mathematics, AS/A2 Statistics and AS Use of Mathematics.

In your first year (AS) there are two Core units (C1 and C2), containing advanced algebra and graph work and building on what you studied at GCSE. You will study calculus (the maths of change), sequences and series, curve sketching, trigonometry, coordinate geometry and other topics. You will need to have a good background in algebra. You also study one unit EITHER of Mechanics M1 (the mathematics of physics), mostly for students who are taking Physics OR Statistics S1. Statistics is about using data and probability, and is very useful for subjects such as Biology, Sociology, Psychology, and many others.

In your 2nd year (A2) there are three more units, two Core units (C3 and C4) plus EITHER Mechanics (M2) OR Statistics (S2) OR Decision Maths (D1).  Decision Maths is about algorithms, networks and graph theory. It is the mathematics behind taking a decision such as "which is the best route..." (satnavs); what is the shortest time in which we can finish the job ..." (project management), and is very useful for students interested in Computing or Business. At a higher level this branch of Maths is often called Operations Research and leads into many exciting careers.

A Level Mathematics prepares you for any university degree course and combines well with all A levels. A Maths degree is the pathway to a huge variety of well paid careers.

Tower Hamlets College is one of the few offering such a wide choice of units. Many others will only offer you Core plus S1 and M1 only. Anyone wishing to become an engineer really needs to take Mechanics 1 and 2.  S2 is very useful if you want to study the social sciences at university.  Most schools cannot provide these higher units.

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Where this course might take me: 
Maths is an excellent grounding for many university degrees or work in business, economics, engineering or science.

Move On courses 1 and 2

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Daytime
Level: 
Entry Level
Length of course: 
1 - 2 Years
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds
Over 19 - Adult

If you would like to develop your independence skills, communication, social skills and work skills, through Enterprise projects, you may choose to do a Move On course. You will probably be aged between 16 and 25 and may have needed extra support at school.

Your course will include:

  • Out in the Community
  • Communication
  • ICT 
  • Cookery
  • Self Advocacy/Personal Development 
  • Literacy
  • Maths for life
  • Enterprise (running a business)
  • Preparation for Work
  • Art/Textiles

You will learn through individual and group work in class, through projects, practical sessions and outside visits. There are two courses: Move On 1 and Move On 2. Each course is full time. You may start on Move On 1 or Move On 2 depending on your needs. We will talk about this when you start.
Tutorial support and extra help will be available when and where you need it and transport can be arranged for you to come to College if you already have transport to school.

We may be able to arrange a link course so that you come to College for half a day a week to see what it is like first.

 

Where this course might take me: 
There are clear progression routes available for you. You may choose to follow an Independent Living route or a route towards supported employment. Also, you could access social services provision. We will be able to advise you about what to do next.

Motor Vehicle Technology Entry Level

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Daytime
Level: 
Entry Level
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

Your studies will include...

  • Engine operating principles, fuel and exhaust systems, spark and ignition, cooling, lubrication, transmission, wheels and tyres, brakes, steering and suspension
  • Learn safe and correct workshop procedures and how to use specialist tools and equipment
  • English, Maths and ICT

 

Where this course might take me: 
You can progress onto a higher level course, training, apprenticeship or employment.

BTEC Level 3 (Extended Diploma) in IT

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Level: 
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
2 years
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

This year we are offering a new IT course, designed to teach the skills that employers need in all aspects of business. The course aims to blend technical skills together with the business, interpersonal and project management skills that are needed not only by the IT sector, but by all the sectors using technology in a modern business environment.

Learning has emphasis on the following areas
• The potential of technology
• Understanding organisations
• Professional development
• Creating technology solutions
• Managing technology systems
• Multimedia and digital projects

The BTEC Level 3 (Extended Diploma) in IT is not an exam-based course. Instead, students study real-life, work-based
case studies and complete projects and assessments, which contribute to achieving each of the core subjects studied. The
assessment criteria address theory with practical exercises. The assessment process is ongoing, so it allows the student to analyse and improve their own performance through their course in much the same way as they would in a real workplace.

Some of the units that you will be studying:

- Communication & Employability Skills for IT
- Computer Systems
- Computer Networks
- Computer Animation
- Digital Graphics
- eCommerce
- Multimedia Design

Who this course is for: 
This course will prepare you for appropriate direct employment in the vocational sector and it is suitable for you if have decided that you wish to enter a particular specialist area of work. It will also enable you to gain the qualification in order to progress to a higher education foundation degree, HND or other professional development programme.
Where this course might take me: 
After completing the two years, learners will gain qualifications to take them to University. Some of the degree courses our students have progressed to include: BSc in Business Information Technology BSc in Business Information Systems BSc in Information Technology BSc in Computing and Network Systems

Stem Baccalaureate - Maths and Sciences

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Daytime
Level: 
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
2 years
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

The Tower Hamlets STEM Baccalaureate is a new A Level programme for ambitious, hard working, high achievers who are keen to get into the best universities.

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The UK is facing a shortage of graduates in STEM professions. Tower Hamlets College has an excellent record of success in Science and Mathematics and many of our students have moved on to degree courses in Maths, Science, Medicine and Engineering at Kings, UCL, Queen Mary, Imperial and Cambridge University. Have a look at the STEMNET website.

We are offering two Baccalaureate pathways: an Engineering pathway and a Bio-Medical pathway. Each pathway has two compulsory core A level subjects, and two additional recommended subjects. You will study the core subjects in the same group and will have a tutor who teaches one of the core. The table shows some of the choices. We will interview you individually for the STEM Baccalaureate and make sure your programme suits your aspirations.

Students on the STEM Baccalaureate will be offered the opportunity to take the STEP and BMAT exams for entry to the top universities. You will be expected and encouraged to take part in extra activities so that you are ready for the big challenges ahead.

Engineering (Physical Sciences) Pathway:   Bio-Medical Pathway:
Core subjects:
Mathematics and Physics
  Core subjects:
Biology and Chemistry
+ Choice of 1 subject from:
Chemistry or Further Maths
  + Choice of 1 subject from:
Statistics or Mathematics
+ Choice of 1 subject from:
Computing, Business, Economics,
Biology, Science in Society, and
possibly some others
  + Choice of 1 subject from:
Physics, Psychology, History, English, Anthropology Sociology, Science in Society, and possibly some others
     

Printable pdf file containing details of this course »

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Who this course is for: 
The STEM Baccalaureate is for hard working high achievers who want to get into the best universities. You will need excellent GCSE grades (mostly A* or A) and a powerful ambition to achieve the same high grades at A level. You will need to be well organised with good study skills.
Where this course might take me: 
The sky is your limit - we will expect you to try for Imperial, Cambridge, UCL, Warwick…

Electrical Installation

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Electrical Installation Switch on your future with a career in electrical installation. We’re building brand new facilities in which to provide the best electrical training in the area. There really is no better time to kick start your future career with nationally recognised qualifications specifically designed for the electrical industry. Are you practical, methodical and a good problem solver with attention to detail? Then this specialised career could be just for you.

Your learning will include:
• About electrical principles and drawings
• The science behind electricity, including topics such as resistance
• The theory of various systems, machines and motors
• Practical techniques, specifications and regulations
• All health and safety requirements



Find out about our next Open Day. Come along and see for yourself the fantastic facilities we have and find out more about the courses we offer!

Technical Skills at THC

 

  Electrical Installation

 

 

AS/A Level Performing Arts

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Level: 
AS Level
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

A-level Performing Arts is for those seeking a career in drama, music or performance production. It is also suitable for students who wish to develop their confidence, communication, team work and problem-solving skills. 

You will develop the practical knowledge and skills that take account of the industry’s needs whilst at the same time learning about placing performing art in a socio-historic context. The course covers units such as:

  • exploring skills for performance,
  • planning for an event and performing to a commission

An emphasis is placed on the importance of team work when responding to briefs. You will have the chance to work as a member of a production tea m an  d create your own piece of theatre beginning with the development of a script in response to a ‘live’ brief through to the finished production complete with audience.

The course will include off-site visits to theatres in order to explore what goes on behind the scenes in relation to sound, lighting, stage management as well as learning how to analyse and evaluate performance. You will also get to meet a broad range of professionals who work in the industry both behind the scenes and front of house. 
The briefs you will be given will give you an into what it is like working in the performing arts industry and give you a chance to explore working methods linked to industry practice, contextual Studies will develop your understanding of how social, historical and cultural activities  have influenced the historical development of performing arts,   

Performing Arts A level compliments A levels in English Literature, History, Politics, Art, Business, Sociology, Psychology, Film Studies, Communication & Culture, Media Studies, Mathematics and Photography.

Where this course might take me: 
At the end of the course you will have a show reel of creative work that demonstrates your technical/performance skills and a portfolio that demonstrates your theoretical knowledge. You can progress to university studying drama, media or humanities at degree level or enter the creative industries working in film, theatre or television.

Access to Science

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Daytime
Level: 
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
One year
Venue: 
Arbour Square Centre
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

Access courses are for adults who want to study at University but do not yet have the required qualifications. To be successful on the course you need to be prepared for one year of intensive study, including a lot of private study as well as your time in College. For the Science career path, you will take modules in Physics, Biology and Chemistry in addition to English, Maths, study skills and IT. Previous students have progressed to a very wide range of courses across London and the UK, including Maths, Engineering, Biochemistry, Radiography, Marine Biology and many others.
 

Days and Times: 
Full time course 4 days per week 9.30-3.30 (exact times to be confirmed)
Who this course is for: 
Adults over 19 wishing to progress to study a Science related degree
Where this course might take me: 
Science related degree courses including Maths, Engineering, Biochemistry, Radiography, Marine Biology and many others.

AAT Level 4 Accounting Technician

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Study Times: 
Part Time
Evening
Twilight
Level: 
Level 4 and above - University Level
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

On this course you will learn how to draft financial statements for limited companies, perform complex management accounting tasks and develop your own management skills. This level includes a choice of special units, which means that you can focus on the areas of accounting that suit you.

The course is approximately equivalent to the first year of an honours degree.

AAT Level 4 Diploma in Accounting (Mandatory units and 2 optional pairs)

Mandatory
Financial statements                                                     Computer based test
Budgeting                                                                     Computer based test
Financial performance                                                   Computer based test
Internal control and accounting systems                      Computer based project*

Optional
Credit management and control                                     Computer based project*
Personal tax                                                                   Computer based test
Business tax                                                                   Computer based test
External auditing                                                            Computer based test

 

Days and Times: 
2 days per week (twilight & evening)
Who this course is for: 
Candidates working in the finance or accounting sector / L3 AAT progressors
Where this course might take me: 
As an AAT Member in Practice you are entitled to offer a range of financial services. You may also be able to progress into the second year relevant degree programme or be part-accredited towards the Foundation stage of professional accounting accreditation.

Certificate in Numeracy - Entry to Additional Diploma in Teaching Numeracy

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Study Times: 
Part Time
Evening
Level: 
Level 2 - GCSE level equivalent
Length of course: 
6 weeks
Venue: 
Arbour Square Centre
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

Full Course details are not available as yet for this course. Please contact our Advice Team on 020 7510 7777 or Advice@tower.ac.uk for further information or pop in and see us. Alternatively revisit this page at a later date. Thanks.

Days and Times: 
Tuesdays, 5pm-8pm

English Functional Skills

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Study Times: 
Part Time
Evening
Level: 
Level 1 - Foundation equivalent
Level 2 - GCSE level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Arbour Square Centre
Oxford House, Bethnal Green
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

In these courses you will improve your reading, writing and speaking and listening skills.  You will practice things like writing letters, and making presentations.You will work towards a level one or level two functional skills English qualification. 

Days and Times: 
various
Who this course is for: 
Anyone who wants to improve their English part time.
Where this course might take me: 
Some students go on to study GCSE English, others go on to study other vocational courses or employment.

Level 3 NVQ Children's Care /Workforce Diploma for the Children and Young People's Workforce

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Part Time
Daytime
Evening
Twilight
Part of Full Time Programme
Level: 
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
To be confirmed
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

About the course
The Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People’s Workforce is delivered on a full-time and part-time basis

What and how do you learn?

You learn through taught classes, practical activities and individual study

•Communication in Children and Young People’s Settings.
•Equality and inclusion in Children and Young People’s Settings.
•Child and Young Person development.
•Safeguarding and Welfare of Children and Young People.
•Health and safety of Children and Young People.
•Supporting Positive Behaviour.
•Supporting Positive Environments.
•Maintaining positive relationships.
Assessment
You will be assessed through your course work and in the workplace.

Qualifications/experience required to start
16 hours work (paid or voluntary) a week, in a suitable child care setting plus:

•NVQ Level 2 Children’s Care Learning and Development; or
•CACHE Level 2 Diploma in Childcare and Education; or
•BTEC First Diploma in Children’s Care, Learning and Development; or
•4 GCSE’s at grade C or above.
We would also take into account prior experience and general suitability for working in the sector; this will be discussed at interview. All candidates must be committed to working with young children and their families, be creative, energetic, have a sense of humour and a lively and outgoing personality.

To work with children (under 18) or vulnerable adults students will need to complete an enhanced disclosure check for the Criminal Records Bureau. The College will organise this for you but you will have to pay. Full details regarding payment and documents required will be provided prior to enrolment.

After the course
Advice on careers and further study will be given during the course. Achieving this qualification allows students to gain employment (for example as a Nursery Nurse) in the rapidly growing childcare sector working in a wide range of settings. Students can also progress to Higher Education

 

Who this course is for: 
Adults who wish to work in childcare
Where this course might take me: 
Once you have a level 3 qualification it gives you the option to explore different employment opportunities.

ECDL EXTRA - LEVEL 2 - Intensive Course

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Study Times: 
Part Time
Level: 
Level 2 - GCSE level equivalent
Length of course: 
20 Weeks; Starting on 23rd Jan 2012, ending Jul 2012
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

ECDL is the global standard in end-user computer skills, offering an internationally recognised certificate that is supported by governments, computer societies, international organisations and commercial corporations worldwide.
It is the world's largest end-user computer skills certification programme, with more than 6 million candidates in 146 countries.
Units for ECDL Extra:
Word Processing Unit
You will study how to use a word processor to create and format a textual document. It covers more advanced features of Word such as Mail Merge. THIS UNIT IS ASSESSED THROUGH A PRACTICAL TEST
Spreadsheets
This unit is designed to accredit basic competence in using spreadsheet software to enter, edit and present numerical data using formulae and basic formatting tools. You will be familiar with the concepts of absolute and relative cell references, charting etc.
THIS UNIT IS ASSESSED THROUGH A PRACTICAL TEST.
Presentations
This unit helps you to use presentation software to set up and format slides as well as to present and print files.
THIS UNIT IS ASSESSED THROUGH A PRACTICAL TEST.
Improving Productivity Using IT
This unit tests your ability to plan, evaluate and improve procedures involving the use of IT tools and systems in order to improve the productivity and efficiency of work activities.
THIS UNIT IS ASSESSED THROUGH A PRACTICAL TEST.

Days and Times: 
TBC
Who this course is for: 
ECDL is for you, if you already have experience of using Office applications and want to improve your skills as well as obtaining an internationally recognised qualification
Where this course might take me: 
On completion of each level, you can progress to a higher level course. See your tutor or an advice officer for more guidance

City and Guilds 7303 - Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS)

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Study Times: 
Part Time
Evening
Level: 
Level 3 - Full A Level equivalent
Length of course: 
11 weeks
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

7303 is a general introduction to teaching and training, combining theory with practice.  
Component parts include:

  • Roles and responsibilities in delivering learning
  • Different approaches to teaching and assessing adults
  • Schemes of work and lesson planning
  • Delivering a micro-teach session

Assessment is through written assignments and a short teaching session to your peers on the course, along with the submission of a portfolio at the end. Individual pieces of work are graded Pass or Refer. Referred pieces may be re-submitted within the time frame of the course.

Who is this course for?

The course is designed for people who work or want to work as teachers, trainers or tutors of adults. It will be valuable for both pre-service and in-service participants. Some trainees will already be employed in a teaching role and others will be just preparing to step into this role.   But all of you need to have experience of working with other adults. PTLLS will develop your skills, confidence and practice in delivering learning in your particular field of work e.g. in mainstream Further Education, in employability, childcare, youth or community work, offender education or HM forces. The academic level is level 3 (equivalent to A level), so we need to be sure that you can function competently at this level before offering you a place. This will be assessed through selection tasks and interview.

Entry Requirements:

You will need to demonstrate:
A good standard of written and spoken English
Understanding and experience of working with people and the capacity to get on well with others

Where will this course take me?

The 7303 PTLLS course is a level 3 introductory qualification worth 12 credits in the framework of teacher training qualifications. The award will confer a ‘threshold licence to teach’ to all new or prospective teachers in the further and adult education sector (i.e. learning and skills sector). Please note that PTLLS can count towards, but is not itself, a full teaching qualification. Teachers working in the Lifelong Learning Sector are required to go on to complete a PGCE, Certificate in Education or Diploma in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (DTLLS).
 

Days and Times: 
Tuesdays, 5.00pm - 9.00pm, Course start dates: 13th September – 29th November 2011; 13th December 2011 – 13th March 2012; 20th March – 26th June 2012; 16th - 27th July 2011 (2 week intensive course);

BTEC First Diploma in Multimedia Design Level 2

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Level: 
Level 2 - GCSE level equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

On this course you will have the opportunity to develop both traditional and computer graphics-based creative skills and work with state-of-the-art Apple Mac computers as well as scanners, printers, digital and video cameras. Our professional digital software includes Photoshop, Illustrator, Maya, Final Cut Pro, After Effects and Flash.

You will explore the exciting world of special effects, animation, filming and editing, 3D modelling and animation, games development, typography, drawn character animation, contextual studies and professional studio practice.

You will also develop a range of visual, written and oral communication skills using both traditional and digital technologies and have the opportunity to study Maths and English as separate GCSEs. Assessment is continuous and the course culminates in a final project where you can specialise in an area of your choice. You will develop a portfolio of creative work to demonstrate your creative design and technical skills, and an underpinning theoretical knowledge.

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Where this course might take me: 
You could apply for a more advanced course including our National Diploma courses in Animation & Multimedia, Media or seek employment in the multimedia / new media sector.