Higher Nationals
In the day to day context, whilst every endeavour will be made to provide the courses and services described in the Programme Specification, Blackpool and The Fylde College reserves the right to make such changes as may be appropriate for reasons of operational efficiency or due to circumstances including industrial action beyond its control. This document is available in alternative formats on request. Page 2 of 9
CONTENTS 1. Introduction... 4 2. Key programme Information... 4 3. Programme Overview... 5 4. Admission Criteria... 5 5. Progression Opportunities... 5 6. Programme Aims... 6 7. Programme Outcomes... 6 8. Programme Content... 6 9. An Overview of Teaching, Learning & Assessment... 7 10. Opportunities for Work based & Placement Learning... 7 11. Summary of Relevant Academic Guidelines... 7 12. About... 8 12.1 QAA Review May 2013... 8 QAA's judgements about Blackpool and The Fylde College... 8 Good practice... 8 Document Version Tracking Version Date Author(s) Description 0.1 24/03/15 Tom Workman Stage 1 0.2 04/05/16 Tom Workman Stage 2 0.3 External 1.0 Final
1. INTRODUCTION The Programme Specification provides a summary of the main features of the HNC Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment (QCF) programme. BTEC Higher National programmes are derived from specification documents published by Pearson which provide the module outlines and overarching structure of the award. This document outlines the programme available at Blackpool and The Fylde College, and includes valuable information to both current and prospective students. Further detailed information related to this programme and the College can be found in the following resources: Programme handbook B&FC Student handbook B&FC Admissions Policy Work Based and Placement Learning handbook (Foundation Degrees) Student guide to assessment and feedback www.blackpool.ac.uk 2. KEY PROGRAMME INFORMATION BTEC Higher National Specification Name of the final award Programme title Relevant Subject Benchmarks Teaching institution Name of awarding body/institution Details of Professional/Statutory body accreditation Length of programme/mode of study UCAS code (if applicable) Language of Study Construction and the Built Environment Pearson BTEC Level 4 HNC Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment (QCF) HNC Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment (QCF) This programme pays reference to the QAA Honours degree benchmarks for Construction, Property and Surveying 2008 Blackpool and The Fylde College Pearson Not applicable Full-time 12 Months; Part-time: 24 Months Not applicable English Date of Internal Approval Date of next review 5 Years
3. PROGRAMME OVERVIEW The UK construction industry is dominated by small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) with a relatively small number of larger companies. The private sector is a major source of employment, with local government and government bodies also offering employment opportunities. Nearly three-quarters of building and construction management graduates are employed six months after graduating, going into roles such as Building Control Surveyor, Building Services Engineer, Facilities Manager, Quantity Surveyor and Site Engineer. By progressing to an HND, degree or relevant professional qualification, you could increase your career prospects even further. The Edexcel BTEC Level 4 HNC in Construction and the Built Environment provides you with a specialist work-related programme of study which covers the key knowledge, understanding and practical skills required in the construction sector and also offers you the opportunity to engage in particular specialisms through the choice of specialist units. Edexcel BTEC Level 4 HNCs provide a nationally recognised qualification offering you career progression and professional development for those of you already in employment; opportunities to progress further in higher education. The Edexcel BTEC Level 4 HNC in Construction and the Built Environment offers a progression route for those of you who are employed in the construction sector. This HNC in Construction and the Built Environment programme works in close partnership with local and regional contractors. This close working relationship has developed into structured planned site visits and work experience available for you on the course leading to you being giving the opportunity for employment within the industry. The programme is recognised by various professional bodies which provides the facility for you to become student members of these institutions. The programme is intended for those students who wish to pursue a career at higher professional/technician level within the construction industry but who have not, as yet, decided upon a specific construction career area. The variety of disciplines covered allows you to explore different specialist areas and identify a career that best matches your individual strengths and aspirations. The School has excellent, well-developed working relationships with a wide range of construction employers, through which we help and support you into sustainable employment. These links to local and national employers give you the skills and applied knowledge required for a career in construction management. Many past students are now employed by companies such as Laing O'Rouke, BAE Systems, FParkinson, Blackpool Borough Council and Eric Wright in a wide range professions. Industry experienced tutors, aided by input from employers and partner organisations, ensure this course is kept up-to-date and closely aligned to the needs of industry. The programme content is delivered by highly-qualified tutors, all from industry and experienced in a variety of construction disciplines who work to create a strong climate of student support. 4. ADMISSION CRITERIA Admission to level 4 (HNC) would normally be on the basis of one of the following prior achievements: An NVQ Diploma at Level 3 in any construction craft A minimum of 120 UCAS points for entry Sept 2016 A minimum of 32 UCAS points (based on the new UCAS tariff we Sept 2017) In addition to one of the above qualifications, achievement of GCSE Maths and English at grade C will also be required. Application from nonstandard students, who do not possess the formal entry qualifications but are able to demonstrate relevant industry experience, will be considered on merit but would not normally be considered without GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above. 5. PROGRESSION OPPORTUNITIES The HNC qualified student can progress to study at degree level in the following professional disciplines: Quantity/ Building Surveyor, Building Inspector, Planning Officer, Project Manager. Whilst the HNC qualification can be used to access the Construction industry directly for a range of Construction and Construction Management careers and is an established qualification within the industry.
6. PROGRAMME AIMS The Aims of this HNC in Construction and the Built Environment are: To prepare learners for a range of technical, professional and management careers in construction and the built environment by providing specialised studies which are directly related to individual occupations and professions learners are currently working in or in which they intend to seek employment To enable learners to make an immediate contribution in employment in the construction and built environment sector To provide learners with flexibility, knowledge, understanding, skills and motivation as a basis for progression to graduate and postgraduate studies To develop a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attitudes essential for successful performance in working life To provide further study, career development and progression from a Technical Certificate at level 3 within or following an Advanced Apprenticeship To provide a significant education base for progression to membership of professional bodies in construction, building services engineering and civil engineering To provide a significant education base for progression to Incorporated Engineer level. 7. PROGRAMME OUTCOMES On completing the programme you will be able to: locate, extract, read and use appropriate literature drawn from multiple sources with a full and critical understanding design, plan, conduct and report investigations and research to solve problems and communicate the results of their study accurately and reliably seek solutions to routine and unfamiliar problems through the analysis and synthesis of a range of concepts, knowledge and skills to formulate evidence based arguments and evaluate and summarise information critically analyse and interpret data and present quantitative and qualitative information, together with analysis, argument and commentary, in a form appropriate to the intended audience, using appropriate quantitative techniques, relevant IT software and media relate academic knowledge, skills and understanding to skills in the workplace and, where appropriate, demonstrate their integration through workplace experience and activities think independently and apply complex theories to practical, realistic work situations, some requiring innovation and creativity apply their subject-related and transferable skills in contexts where the scope of the task and the criteria for decisions are generally well defined but where some personal responsibility and initiative are required recognise the moral and ethical issues of construction, sustainability, the environment, and scientific enquiry and experimentation appreciate the need for ethical standards and professional codes of conduct and apply insight and judgement in relation to the margins and consequences of error develop an understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of construction, and of the skills required to work in nonadversarial integrated teams take responsibility to manage and direct their own and, where appropriate, the activities of others identify and address their learning needs within defined contexts, recognise their learning style and undertake further guided learning in new areas. 8. PROGRAMME CONTENT All Higher Education programmes delivered at Blackpool and The Fylde College consist of modules. A module is a coherent unit of subject material, which is complete with its own learning outcomes and assessments. More detailed information on module content is available in the programme handbook. Higher National Certificate (HNC) FHEQ Level 4 Award Full-time study: 12 Months Part-time study: 24 Months A Higher National Certificate may be awarded following the successful completion of the following modules:
D/601/1245 H/601/1246 T/601/1249 Module Code Level Title Credits 4 Design Principles and Application for Construction and the Built Environment 4 Science and Materials for Construction and the Built Environment 5 Management Principles and Application for Construction and the Built Environment K/601/1250 5 Group Project in the Construction Industry 20 T/601/1252 4 Health, Safety and Welfare for Construction and the Built Environment F/601/1254 4 Construction and Maintenance of Buildings 15 J/601/1255 5 Technology of Complex Buildings 15 H/601/1294 4 Computer-aided Design for Construction 15 15 15 15 15 9. AN OVERVIEW OF TEACHING, LEARNING & ASSESSMENT The HNC Construction and the Built Environment programme combines theoretical and practical elements. Vocational industry aligned content and methods feature strongly in the teaching and learning strategy. You will learn about project management, construction techniques, design considerations and science and materials and this will be through an enjoyable mix of lectures, group tasks, interactive discussions and individual assignment and project work. You will be supported on your programme by a highly effective tutorial provision which will help you to individualise your learning and receive targeted support to ensure that you develop and achieve whilst on programme. The virtual learning environment (VLE) Moodle is utilised to considerable effect in providing additional support in the form of forums and tutorials. A wide range of learning activities allows you to participate at your own individual pace and these learning activities include; site visits, presentations and contextualised discussions alongside the more traditional modes of delivery mentioned above. Each individual module has a detailed assessment strategy that reflects that module's aims and objectives. The range of assessment techniques comprises of essays, reports, reviews, exams, exhibition and poster presentations, presentations to groups, presentations for students and industry representatives and student projects. Assignment work replicates the rigours and expectations of a work-based setting. You will be given the opportunity to be assessed informally and receive feedback on your progress as you work towards the completion of your assessed coursework and examinations. This could be through short written tasks, calculations and design drawings through to questioning and the submission of drafts. We aim to ensure that you experience an enjoyable and at the same time vocationally relevant learning experience which will prepare you for the demands of the Construction industry. 10. OPPORTUNITIES FOR WORK BASED & PLACEMENT LEARNING There is no formal work placement within this qualification, however students not employed within the industry are encouraged to engage in work experience. The curriculum area has excellent relationships with local employers and opportunities for work experience frequently arise. The programme is highly vocational in nature and uses industry examples and assignment briefs to ensure that employability and work related skills are developed continually. 11. SUMMARY OF RELEVANT ACADEMIC GUIDELINES UK Quality Code for Higher Education QAA Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) B&FC Teaching Learning and Assessment Strategy B&FC Undergraduate Regulatory Framework B&FC Undergraduate Assessment Regulations4
BTEC Higher National Specification for Construction and the Built Environment (Date) B&FC BTEC Higher National Award Regulations 12. INFORMATION ABOUT THE AWARDING BODY This higher national programme is awarded by Pearson. Pearson publish a higher national specification which provides the nationally devised and accredited programme structure, curriculum content and related guidance for educational institutions to deliver a programme which is appropriate to local market conditions and local student needs. As the awarding body, Pearson appoints a suitably qualified academic to act as the standards verifier for this programme at Blackpool and The Fylde College. The standards verifier is equivalent to the external examiner role identified within the QAA Quality Code for UK Higher Education, Chapter B7: External Examining. Annual reports from the appointed standards verifier are published within the College Moodle site and made available to all current students. 13. ABOUT BLACKPOOL & THE FYLDE COLLEGE 13.1 QAA REVIEW MAY 2013 QAA'S JUDGEMENTS ABOUT BLACKPOOL AND THE FYLDE COLLEGE The QAA review team formed the following judgements about the higher education provision at Blackpool and The Fylde College. The academic standards that the College offers on behalf of its awarding bodies meet UK expectations for threshold standards. The quality of student learning opportunities at the College meets UK expectations. The quality of information produced by the College about its learning opportunities is commended. The enhancement of student learning opportunities at the College is commended. GOOD PRACTICE The QAA review team identified the following features of good practice at Blackpool and The Fylde College: the clear link between the College's commitment to inclusivity and employability, and the resulting innovative assessment tasks the variety of assessment tasks and their relevance to the world of work, which was valued by students and employers the College's anticipatory approach to the consideration of and investment in learning resources the extensive and valuable contribution of students to the quality assurance and enhancement activities of the College the integrated approach to the provision of learning opportunities to enable the entitlements of disabled students to be met in the wider context of a College ethos of inclusivity the integrated and innovative approach to the provision of blended learning opportunities and e-resources using the virtual learning environment, which is both comprehensive and reliable the high-quality website, which provides a user-friendly point of contact for the College's intended audiences the positive contribution made by the role of the Higher Education Development Manager to the development and production of high-quality and accessible course data and management information
the comprehensive and continuing development of the virtual learning environment that facilitates effective dissemination of information, providing a 'one-stop shop' for students and staff the positive contribution of the College's equality and diversity agenda to the enhancement of learning opportunities across its higher education provision the embedded culture of enhancement, as exemplified by the strategic leadership provided by the Higher Education Directorate and the complementary high levels of awareness among, and involvement of, staff and students across the College