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HNC Additional Support Needs

  • SCQF Level SCQF Level
  • Study mode Full-time
  • Campus Kilwinning
  • Start date August 2025
  • Duration 36 weeks
More information

Attendance/Duration

Full time, one year

Overview

Have you ever thought of supporting children, young people or adults but don’t know where to start? The HNC Additional Support Needs (ASN) course gives you the opportunity to start a career pathway that is exciting, challenging and rewarding.

This course will help you to develop the skills, knowledge and positive attitude needed to prepare you for work in a variety of ASN roles and careers.

Entry Requirements

To study on this course, you’ll need:

  • a real interest in supporting individuals with a range of needs
  • at least 2 Highers, including English (minimum C pass), or a relevant level 6 course (eg PDA Education Support Assistant or Early Learning and Childcare)
  • an Interview with us
  • eligible for PVG scheme membership

If you lack formal qualifications but have life experience, we’ll consider your application. Please call us for a chat.

Course Content

During this course, you may learn:

  • principles of practice in an ASN setting
  • effects on human development
  • promoting inclusion and equality in the workplace
  • safeguarding and protecting individuals from harm and abuse
  • understanding communication difficulties
  • autism spectrum disorder
  • supporting children and young people with dyslexia
  • meta skills such as critical thinking
  • transferable skills like analytical and digital skills
  • technical skills to support individuals development

Next Steps and Career Opportunities

Successful completion of this course can open doors to various roles:

  • educational positions in mainstream and ASN school environments
  • independent and supported living settings
  • care settings catering to diverse needs
  • this award enables registration as a support worker or ASN practitioner with the SSSC. you may have the opportunity to advance your career or pursue further studies

Why Choose This Course

The HNC Additional Support Needs award is appropriate for those who are currently employed or considering employment in the additional support needs sector. This is a specialised award for people working or intending to work individuals of all ages who require additional support to live their day to day lives, be it in Education, work, care, or recreation. This award will enable learners to work as a member of staff who has responsibility for providing care and/or educational support to children, young people and/or adults.