Who is this course for?
Learners who are over 19 years of age and possess a keen interest in learning about conselling skills.

Entry requirements
No previous knowledge or skills are required The course does not teach you to be a counsellor, but it may help you to decide whether or not this is a career you might want to pursue. It is not a substitute for therapy. Students need emotional strength and if you are experiencing serious difficulties in your life it would be advisable to delay starting this course until these are resolved. Please discuss with a learning advisor if in any doubt.

How do I enrol?
The quickest way to enrol is online at www.oncoursesouthwest.co.uk, simply create an account and select enrol now. Alternatively, if you have any questions, please call our friendly customer service team on 01752 660713.

Course aims
This course is designed to offer an introduction to counselling skills. Learners may want to progress onto the the CPCAB Award - Level 2 after completing this course. During each session you can expect to be involved in a variety of learning experiences including individual, paired, small group and whole group activities in addition to formally taught components. A willingness to participate in all aspects of the course is essential. You will learn about: Working within the limitations of the helping role. How to establish boundaries for helping work. Communication of empathic understanding. The importance of self-awareness in helping work. Using listening and responding skills. Using review and feedback to develop initial counselling skills

How will the course be delivered?
This is a practical and theory-based course and the sessions will include tutor-led demonstrations, learner-led group activities, instruction and repetition. These will form part of the delivery together with one-to-one support as required.

Will I need to study or practise outside the classroom?
You will be expected to review your notes between lessons to ensure maximum benefit from your course. It is always useful to practise your skills between sessions.

How will I know I'm making progress?
During the first session, your tutor will discuss your goals and current level in relation to the course. Based on this assessment, you will agree individual targets which you will record in your individual learning plan (ILP). You and your tutor will review your targets regularly to ensure that you are making progress; these will be written in your individual learning plan.

What will I need for the course?
Please bring a pen and notepad. Full commitment and willingness to reflect on skills, and engage with some abstract concepts of counselling is essential.

Progression
CPCAB Award - Level 2 Learning Advisors will be happy to provide you with information of what progression is available. Visit our website at www.oncoursesouthwest.co.uk or contact us on 01752 660713 to make an appointment.

Career opportunities
This course provides skills that would complement any career that involves working with others.

Please note:
Most courses attract a subsidy from the Education and Skills Funding Agency and can be used to match fund for ESF. It is a requirement of the ESFA that you complete various forms at different stages of your course, further information is available on request. Courses are subject to a minimum number of enrolments and could be cancelled if recruitment is low. In some cases, an alternative class at a different location may be offered. Terms and conditions are available at https://www.oncoursesouthwest.co.uk/learner-information/essential-information-for-every-learner Room numbers are subject to change - please check when you arrive at the venue.