Full-timeProspectus2015-16

Full-time
course guide
2015-16

The College
1 Hello and welcome
2 Feeling good
3 The right mix
4 Watford campus
6 Kings Langley campus
8 Dacorum campus
10 GAP:
Adventures in the working world
12 GEM:
Great at English and maths
14 Get started:
The right level for you
Courses
16 Art and Design
28 Business Studies
34 Construction Skills
40 Electrical Installation
and Plumbing
46 Engineering
48 Food Academy, Hospitality
and Event Management
56 Forensic Science
58 Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy
66 Health, Education and Care
76 Information Technology
82 Media
88 Motor Vehicle Engineering
92 Music
96 Performing Arts
104 Photography
108 Public Services
114 Sport and Centre of
Sports Excellence
124 Travel and Tourism
128 Foundation Studies
134 Degrees and Higher National Diplomas
136 Access to Higher Education
Applying, Support
& Information
138 Supporting you
140 Helping you achieve
142 Here for you, here for your business
144 How to find us
145 Open event dates
146 Fair treatment, support
and success for all
148 Application form and guidance notes
For people with disabilities,
the information in this
prospectus is available in
alternative formats. For example,
we can provide course details
in MS Word and Excel formats.
Braille can also be arranged.
Please email your request
to access@westherts.ac.uk
or call 01923 812345.
Alternative
formats
...and welcome

2
Being happy is the first step to success.
It’s all about working hard and having
fun along the way. And if you need
support, just come and see us.
Feeling good What’s the sound track to your life going to be?
At West Herts College it’s all in the mix. We’ll
set you up on the right course, then blend
in work experience and a boost to your
English and maths skills.
By the time you’re finished you’ll be spinning
a tune everyone wants to hear.
MIX
THE RIGHT
3

54
Watford
Campus
Be inspired
Join us, our courses prepare
you for work and university.
It’s hands on
Get set for a professional
future in our hair and
beauty salons, training
restaurant or art studios.
Better by design
Get down to action
in our music and TV
studios, theatre and
dance spaces, Mac suites
or creative studios.
Think outside the box
Relax and share ideas in
one of our breakout spaces
– it’s always good to talk.
Autumn 2014
15 November
Spring 2015
7 March
OPENDAYS
Exciting courses
Fantastic facilities
Great prospects

76
Team up with the best around at our campus
for motor vehicle engineering, electrical
installation and plumbing. Learn the skills you
need to get ahead with a professional trade.
Kings Langley
Campus
Autumn 2014
8 November
Spring 2015
28 February
OPENDAYS
Know a good plumber?
Pick up all the essential
skills, plus everything you
need to stay ahead in this
ever-changing industry.
Wired for success
The best electricians
need the latest skills
and knowledge. From
day one you’ll be in our
workshops learning
from tutors with years
of industry experience.
Top gear
Every 20 seconds a vehicle
rolls off a UK production
line. Our specialist facilities
will prepare you for a
career in the fast lane.

98
Autumn 2014
8 November
Spring 2015
28 February
OPENDAYS
Build your future
Get ahead with professional
skills in carpentry,
plastering and brickwork.
We’ve got everything
you need in our modern
workshops. Job done!
New courses for 2015
We’re refurbishing our
campus and extending the
courses we offer. Follow our
website for the latest news
or give us a call. Possible
study options in addition to
existing courses in business
and IT include travel and
tourism, care and early
years and digital media.
Our professional know-how will
get you started in a career with
countless opportunities locally.
Dacorum
Campus

1110
Explore the working world with a
GAP adventure. It’s work experience
but not as you know it.
We’ve teamed up with local employers
to bring you GAP work experiences:
a fresh approach to getting what it
takes to land a great first job.
Your GAP time will target the skills you
need for success, in ways which suit
you and your GAP employer. You’ll be
busy every day and can expect to be
deeply involved in projects and tasks.
West Herts College students have 30
hours of GAP every year. As well as
work experience there’s masterclasses
on promoting yourself and sessions led
by successful local business people.
Make GAP your next step, whether
you’re set on a particular career or
want to keep your options open.
Hello

1312
Words and numbers are everywhere
and if you can use them well you will
get on fast – at work, at home, in life.
It’s about a future full of promise whatever
your plans. The best employers will
want to give you a job and a place at
university will be yours for the taking.
That’s why we’re determined to
change the way we all use – and
think about – English and maths.
We call it GEM
Great at English and maths
GEM is special to West Herts College and
we’ve got big ambitions for it. We have
dedicated GEM rooms and our team of
tutors specialise in English and maths.
Together we can develop the skills you
need here at College and in life. Your GEM
time will be personal to you, whether you
join us with GCSEs in English and maths
(grades A*-C) or are still looking to achieve
this level. It’s about fresh starts and a
whole new way with words and numbers.
Lifegetsinteresting
whenyou’regoodat
Englishandmaths
Want to find out more
about continuing your
English and maths?
Call us on 01923 812345
and we’ll be happy
to help.
Any
questions?
30 miles per hour =
48.28 km per hour
70 miles per hour =
112.65 km per hour
30
70
0.568 litres
568 ml
1LITRE1000ml
40%
40% of Greater London
is green space – making
it the greenest city in
the world.
75%
75% of the human brain
is water.
NICE
Derived from the Latin word for
‘ignorant’, it originally meant foolish.
Now it is far more polite, if a little dull.
DO YOU KNOW WHAT
YOU’re REALLY SAYING?
Separate is the most
commonly misspelt word.
SEPARATE
ASPIRIN
3
4
HOMOPHONES
A homophone is a word that is
pronounced the same as another
word but can differ in meaning
and spelling.
One tablet
= 75mg
Jar of aspirin
= 50 x 75mg
= 3750mg
= 3.75g
Three-quarters
of employers
are put off a job
candidate by
poor spelling or
grammar.
DeFINITELY
PARTICULARLY
REFERRED
MISSPELT WORDS
COMMONLY

Entry
See course information
for entry criteria.
What will I achieve?
Foundation degree
Higher National Diploma
Next steps
Top-up to an honours degree
Employment
Higher Education
Get your Foundation degree
or HND with us and boost
your career prospects.
HE
15
The right qualification for you is one that
will help you succeed and be happy.
Whether you have a specific subject
in mind, or want to keep your
options open, we can offer impartial
advice to make sure you’re on the
right course at the right level.
Entry
2 GCSEs grades A* to D or an
equivalent Level 1 qualification
plus College assessments.
Level 2 Diploma
NVQ Level 2
Apprenticeship
Next steps
Level 3 Courses
Employment
Equivalent to 5 GCSEs
at grades A* to C.
2
Entry4 GCSEs grades A* to C or anequivalent qualificationplus College assessments.
What will I achieve?Extended DiplomaYou will study towards the L3 diploma
(90 credits) in your first year and
progress on to the extended diploma
(180 credits) in the second year.NVQ Level 3Advanced Apprenticeship
Next stepsFoundation/Honours degreeHigher National DiplomasEmployment
Equivalent to three A2 Levels
(360 UCAS points) and yournext step to university.
3
Entry
2 GCSEs grades E to G or a
vocational entry qualification
plus College assessments.
Level 1 Diploma
NVQ Level 1
Foundation Learning
Next steps
Level 2 Courses
Employment
Provides essential skills for
employment and progressing
with further education.
1
Entry
No formal entry requirements.
Award in Personal Progress
Diploma in Personal Progess
Entry Level Progression Pathway
Next steps
Take further Entry Level courses
Level 1 courses
Employment
Gain essential skills for life
and progress at College.
14
PROGRESS
to
Level1
LET’SGET
STARTED
P
ROGRESS to
Level2
PROGRESS to
Level3
PROGRESS
to HE

Art and Design
17For more information or to apply call us now on 01923 812345
Course Code: 8908Q
Duration: 1 Year
Location: Watford campus
Entry: 2 GCSEs (E - G), Entry
Level 3 qualification, a portfolio
of work, plus interview.
This introduction to art and design
is an opportunity to explore your
creativity and artistic talents before
developing these further at Level 2.
What will I study?
You’ll work on projects, developing
your creative skills through
a wide variety of materials
and techniques including:
• Drawing and painting
• Ceramics
• Printmaking
• Graphic design
• 3D design
• Textiles
You’ll work in classrooms as well
as in our specialist workshops.
Visits to exhibitions and galleries
will provide you with new ideas
and different points of view. In
addition, you’ll study English
and maths and take part in GAP
work placements to develop
your skills and confidence.
What can I do next?
Art and design opens the door
to a range of career options.
Through further study you will
be able to work in the industry.
Course Code: 85001
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 3 GCSEs (A*- D) or
completion of the Level 1
programme, a portfolio of
work, plus interview.
Art and design is a vast industry
supporting a diverse range of
creative careers. Join this course
to build solid artistic foundations
and identify your own specific
talents and aspirations.
What will I study?
This course is a springboard
for studying art and design at a
higher level. Following a broad
introduction, the focus is on project
briefs across the specialisms of:
• Graphic design
• 3D Design
• Textiles
• Visual arts
Through visits to galleries and
exhibitions you’ll learn to view
and record the work of artists
and designers. In addition, you’ll
study English and maths and take
part in GAP work placements to
develop your skills and confidence.
What can I do next?
Progress your studies on a range
of courses at Level 3 Extended
Diploma in: Art and Design,
Graphic Design, Photography,
Fashion and Textiles or other
Art and Design subjects.
BTEC Diploma in
Art and Design
BTEC Diploma in
Art and Design
Art and Design:
Fine Art, Fashion, Textiles, Graphic Design,
Illustration, Interactive Media
Art Design

Art and DesignArt and Design
1918 For more information or to apply call us now on 01923 812345For more information or to apply call us now on 01923 812345
Course Code: 8508
Duration: 2 Years
Entry: 4 GCSEs (A*–C)
including English or maths or
Level 2 Diploma, a portfolio
This course offers an exciting
balance across a range of art
and design disciplines. It’s very
practical and based in our
studios and workshops – and
is a springboard to a variety of
career and further study options.
What will I study?
The first year we give you the
freedom to experiment with a
variety of materials and techniques.
You’re encouraged to adopt
an open-minded approach
to your work, to creativity
and to problem solving.
In the second year you’ll choose
one of the following specialisms:
• 3D design
• Textiles
• Fine Art
• Graphic Design
Concentrating on the skills needed
for your chosen field, you will
develop a portfolio of work aimed
at helping you find employment
or a place at university. Visits to
galleries and museums will grow
your artistic appreciation and
you’ll develop your confidence
in communicating ideas and
opinions around creativity.
In addition, you’ll study English
work placements to build wider
skills and work readiness.
You will study towards the L3
diploma (90 credits) in your
first year and progress on to
the extended diploma (180
credits) in the second year.
What can I do next?
Creative careers await in fields
as different as: fashion, textiles,
product, interior or furniture design
and model-making through to
illustration, graphics, packaging
or computer based design.
Progress your learning with
a Foundation diploma, BA
Hons, Foundation degree or
HND in any number of related
art and design specialisms.
Course Code: 8799
Duration: 2 Years
Join us and explore ideas
across an incredibly diverse
range of media and materials
including oil paints, printmaking,
photography and installation.
We want you to develop your
creative interests, which is why
we emphasise the importance
of researching and reflecting on
your ideas. Just as important
is learning how to plan your
projects and document the
development of your work.
Your creative learning will
commence with the core principles
of painting, drawing and sculpture.
You’ll be using a wide variety of
techniques and disciplines across
art, design and multimedia.
What will I study?
You’ll study a range of
subjects including:
• Sculpture and ceramics
• Printmaking
• Digital imagery and photography
Traditional values and skills are
taught alongside contemporary
means of expression. Bringing
this to life are visits to
galleries and museums of
international importance.
Along the way, your tutors will
share their wealth of creative
experience, guiding you through
future career choices and
other progression routes.
What can I do next?
You may take the Foundation
degree in illustration here at
the college, or a university
honours degree across a range of
subjects. Further study options
open up opportunities in visual
merchandising, illustration,
set painting, architecture,
photography and ceramics.
BTEC Extended Diploma
in Art and Design
in Fine Art
Did you know?
There are over 150
careers to choose from
in Art and Design. Where
will your talent take you?
Student work on display
in our ceramics studio.
Zero tolerance of discrimination, bullying and harassment

Course Code: 0006
Duration: 2 Years
Entry: 4 GCSEs (A*- C)
a Level 2 Diploma, a portfolio
Few creative industries are growing
as fast as 3D design. Career and
study options are similarly exciting.
3D art and design is all about
creativity for the real world. Take
your ideas and transform them
into life enhancing solutions to
the problems we face every day.
It’s a creative discipline that’s
expressive and personal, functional
and technical. Central to success is
an understanding of form, structure
and space – and the use of
drawing, digital and model making
to communicate these ideas.
What will I study?
We’ll start off by developing your
knowledge of technology, materials
and manufacturing processes.
Key subject areas include:
• Product design
• Small-scale design, i.e. jewellery
• Interior and architectural design
• Furniture and model making
• Business and marketing
You’ll be working in specialist
workshops, exploring the design
potential of plastic, metal and
wood. Industrial visits and trips
to galleries and museums will
develop your appreciation of
leading artists and designers.
Your final project will follow a
specialist pathway we’ll discuss
together. In addition, you’ll study
English and maths and take part
in GAP work placements to build
What can I do next?
Careers open to successful students
include set, prop and special
effects design, plus transport
design or computer-based design.
With further study you can enter
the industry in junior positions in
product, furniture, interior or spatial
design, model making, architecture,
theatre and jewellery making.
Further study options include 3D
specialisms at HND, Foundation
Degree or Honours levels.
in Art for Digital MediA
Extended Diploma in
Fashion and Clothing
Course Code: 0005
Duration: 2 Years
A modern career in graphic
design is guaranteed to provide
exciting challenges. Technology,
of course, is transforming these
opportunities but creativity
remains at the heart of it all.
This course offers a diverse and
stimulating world to develop
your creative ability, skills and
awareness. You will explore
traditional and digital design in
our studios equipped with the
latest Adobe software, producing a
varied and sophisticated portfolio
of work in readiness for a career
in design or further education.
What will I study?
specialist subjects including:
• Publicity and publishing
• Branding and identity
• Packaging
• Typography
• Computer imaging
• Illustration/image making
• Historical and contextual studies
Visits to museums and galleries
will give you new ideas.
Alongside your course you’ll
part in GAP work placements
to build skills and confidence.
What can I do next?
Further study options include a
Foundation degree in Graphic
Design here at the college, or
an Honours degree at university.
Employment opportunities span
graphic design, advertising,
typography, packaging,
multimedia, visual imaging,
animation and illustration.
Course Code: 4604
Duration: 2 Years
The fashion industry makes a
significant contribution to the
UK economy. It’s a sector that
is growing fast – and has always
been one of the most dynamic and
creative careers you can choose.
What will I study?
Explore your creativity through
a range of projects in design,
materials, garment production
and presentations. These are the
core skills for working in fashion.
• Design, fashion illustration
and garment construction
• Surface decoration
• Business and computer
aided design
Gallery and museum visits
will inspire you. You’ll be busy
developing your own personal
style, in the second year, through
design research and product
development. You will produce a
collection designed by you that’s
presented at our high profile
End of Year Fashion Show.
part in GAP work placements
to build skills and confidence.
What can I do next?
Careers in fashion design,
production, fashion illustration,
buying and costume design.
Starting up your own business
is a realistic ambition.
Options for further study include
Foundation degree in fashion and
textiles here at the college, or
Honours degree in fashion design
or related specialisms at university.
Course Code: 0007
Duration: 2 Years
of work, plus at interview.
Digital technology has transformed
the way media products are
produced and consumed. From
amateur YouTube videos to huge
cross-media campaigns, nearly
everyone uses digital media.
Digital is the future, whether
the output’s for entertainment,
advertising and marketing
or social networking.
What will I study?
You will build a portfolio of work,
both digital and sketchbook
based, while exploring and
experimenting across a broad
range of media including: drawing
and life drawing, the use of colour,
form, design, video
production and animation.
Visiting speakers will bring the
industry to life. You can expect
expert tuition in specialist
studios with all the latest kit.
• 3D animation
• Video editing
• Web and app design
• Drawing and life drawing
• Graphic design
What can I do next?
Careers include work in the design
or media industry, web design,
games design or animation. Further
study options are Foundation
degrees or Honours degrees in 2D
and 3D animation, visual effects
and games character design.
in 3D Design
in Graphic Design
Studying for an
Extended Diploma:
You will study towards
the L3 diploma (90
credits) in your first
year and progress
on to the extended
diploma (180 credits)
in the second year.
BTEC DIPLOMA
IN ART FOR
DIGITAL MEDIA
Coming in

Course Code: 0358
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: a minimum of 200 UCAS
points obtained from AS/A2
levels, GCSE maths and English
(A*-C), Extended Diploma or
equivalent. In special cases these
qualifications may be waived.
All applicants will be invited to
attend an interview and show a
portfolio of work. International
or mature students without the
required formal qualifications
are welcome to apply.
This course is an opportunity
to experiment with wide-
ranging art and design fields.
We want you to identify and
develop your own creative
practice through exploration of
different creative disciplines.
It’s an excellent grounding for
pursuing a career in the creative
industries. The portfolio you build is
proof of your ability, setting you up
for working life or entry to BA art
and design degree programmes.
What will I study?
The emphasis is on a broad,
experimental approach to art
and design practices. Through
your projects you’ll experience a
range of methodologies through
the use of a range of materials,
processes and technologies.
From here you can identify
and explore your preferred
options for further study. The
support of experienced tutors
is guaranteed whatever your
interests and aspirations.
• Sculpture and 3D design
• Photography and moving image
• Graphics
• Costume
• Illustration
Having agreed your specialism, a
written proposal will form the basis
of your final project. Informing
this will be trips to galleries and
museums, with a week away in a
major European city feeding your
creative insights further still.
What can I do next?
For successful students possible
fields include design, applied arts,
freelancing or art education. Study
options include art and design
specialisms at HND, Foundation
degree or BA Hons level.
Foundation Diploma in
Art and Design
Duration: 2 Years
Applications to be made via
UCAS:
UCAS code: W240
Institution code: W40
Entry: 120 UCAS points from an
appropriate Level 3 qualification.
You will be invited to attend
an inverview and show a
portfolio of work. We welcome
applications from international
or mature students without the
required formal qualifications.
According to the Craft Council,
an estimated 5.6 million pieces of
contemporary art are sold every
year in the UK. Contemporary
craft is now found in shops
and boutiques, galleries, craft
fairs, heritage sites, museums,
auctions and online.
And with consumers increasingly
conscious of quality, originality
and ethical issues, there are
many opportunities for people
with creative flair in the field
of design and production
What will I study?
Learn to mix creativity with a
logical approach, honing the skills
you need for a fulfilling career
in design and production.
Develop your existing talents
while experimenting with
a variety of materials and
techniques in areas across:
metalwork, woodwork, polymer
exploration, ceramics, textiles,
3D design and mixed media.
Enhancing this are theoretical
studies in design history,
technology, materials,
manufacturing processes, business
and marketing practice.
• Professional practice
in art and design
• Managing a creative business
• Marketing for 3D design
• Project design, implementation
and evaluation
• Employability skills
Learn to identify and target
your customer, establish a
basic website and understand
marketing both to commercial
organisations and small vendors.
Making potential customers aware
is key to generating income from
your creativity and a central part
of this course is the production
of craft and its promotion.
Selling work and making
contacts for the future is an
explicit objective. You’ll visit craft
fairs to network and showcase
your work. At College, visiting
professional designers will share
their experience in self promotion.
Helping you to explore your
aspirations and pinpointing
opportunities will be part of
your personal development
plan managed by you with
support from tutors.
You will also have the opportunity
to study for your English and maths
GCSEs alongside your course.
These give you entry to honours
programmes at university and
are highly valued by employers.
What can I do next?
Successful students can progress to
an Honours degree or target work
in the design and creative fields.
Contemporary Design
and Production – HND
“The course has a strong focus
on industry experience. This
encouraged me to work as a
part-time junior designer and
study at the same time.”
Lucy Keeble,
Junior Graphic Designer
Foundation degree, Graphic Design
It’s not where you’re from, it’s where you’re going

Duration: 2 Years
UCAS:
UCAS code: W216
Institution code: H36
Campus code: W
Entry: a minumum of 120
UCAS points made up of at
least one full GCE A Level (A2),
a BTEC Extended Diploma/
Certificate or equivalent, plus
maths GCSE (Grade D or
above), an English Language
GCSE (Grade C or above) or
equivalents – plus interview.
Ideas and thinking are at the
heart of this exciting course,
with its strong emphasis on
practical experimental work.
Projects will inspire and challenge
your thinking as you search
for design and communication
solutions across the specialisms
of: publishing, advertising,
corporate work, publicity
information, infographics, plus
new and emerging media.
We want you to graduate with
creative talent, plus professional
insights and expertise. Project
work based on live client briefs
is a central component. In
addition, you’ll be introduced
to key creative roles across
the graphic design sector.
What will I study?
Work will centre on project
briefs that you’ll evaluate in
ways that are creative and
professionally considered.
• Creative languages and
problem solving
• Historical and
contemporary context
• Creative vocational practice
in graphic design
• Contextual studies
• Cultural and ethical debate
• Portfolio development
in graphic design
Fuelling your thoughts will be trips
to workshops and galleries. Links
with international colleges will
broaden your creative perspective
further, leading to shared projects
and further visits. Gaining work
experience is vital and you’ll be
encouraged to find internships.
The analytical, aesthetic
and theoretical frameworks
commonly used in the creative
sector will be explored.
What can I do next?
Successful students can consider
employment in the sector or further
study for an Honours degree.
Duration: 2 Years
UCAS:
UCAS code: W220
Campus code: W
Entry: a minimum of 120 or more
UCAS points made up of at least
one full GCE A Level (A2), a BTEC
Extended Diploma/Certificate
or equivalent, a maths GCSE
(Grade D or above) and English
Language (Grade C or above)
or equivalent, plus interview.
Illustration is all about translating
the requirements of your client into
visual communication. Learning
the art of responding to a brief
is central to professional success
– and the focus of this course.
We’ll challenge your personal
thinking, processes and attitudes.
The objective is to hone your
drawing and observation skills.
The presentation of your final-
year project exhibition offers
invaluable experience. It’s the
perfect opportunity to show off
your skills, showcase your work
and build industry contacts.
What will I study?
All aspects of illustration are
embraced including traditional
drawing, printmaking, photography
and digital technologies.
Working on live briefs will develop
your theoretical and professional
skills. Visiting exhibitions and
museums will sharpen your
understanding of trends and
industry requirements.
problem solving
• Historical and
• Creative vocational
practice in illustration
• Portfolio development
in illustration
You will be encouraged to
find work experience.
What can I do next?
an Honours degree or employment
in fields across design, illustration,
printmaking or digital technologies.
Graphic Design –
Foundation Degree
Illustration –
Foundation Degree
“@westhertscollege I
should thank you as
I have learnt much
from this college.
I will feel proud to
have West Herts
College on my CV. ”
@Hanafi_786

Duration: 2 Years
UCAS:
UCAS code: W232
Campus code: W
Entry: a minimum of 120 or more
UCAS points made up of at least
one full GCE A Level (A2), a BTEC
or equivalent, a maths GCSE
(Grade D or above), English
Language (Grade C or above)
or equivalent, plus interview.
This degree equips you with
the skills and knowledge
required for a career in this fast-
paced industry – including the
formulation, production and
marketing of your own ideas.
This is an exciting course that
allows you to develop your own
unique creative style. Visits to
galleries, exhibitions, trade fairs,
stores and boutiques will form
an essential part of the course as
you learn to target a market and
respond to the needs of this fast-
paced image driven industry.
What will I study?
You’ll develop creative, technical
and professional skills associated
with the fashion industry. There
are opportunities for you to focus
on specific pathways through
design, production techniques
and textiles, gaining excellent
practical knowledge and industry
awareness in preparation for
further study or employment.
As part of your final-year project
you’ll have the opportunity
to combine your designs and
creations in a portfolio. This
year’s students are creating a
fashion magazine, showcasing
their fashion ideas and designs.
problem solving
• Historical and
• Creative vocational practice
in fashion and textile
• Portfolio development in
fashion and textiles
• Final major project in
fashion and textiles
You will be encouraged to work
with an employer as part of our
work-based learning development.
Two themed projects will be
completed using WGSN, the world
famous trend forecasting service, to
inspire and influence your designs.
Themes in recent years have been
Italian fashion and 1920 art deco.
What can I do next?
an Honours degree or employment
in the fashion or textile industry.
Fashion and Textiles –
Foundation Degree
“After studying at WHC I now
have a job that I love, working
in visual merchandising
for Marks Spencer.”
Sophie Gunn,
Fashion and Textiles Foundation degree
Fair treatment, respect and support to help you succeed
Art and Design student
work from Summer
Exhibition 2014.
Saturday 7 March
2015
Watford

Business and Management
Course Code: 0277Q
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 2 GCSEs (E - G), Entry Level
3 qualification, plus interview.
This practical and creative course
is an exciting introduction to
working in the world of business.
It can be your springboard
to a career in administration
within a range of organisations
including retail, banking, insurance
and the travel industry.
You’ll gain an understanding
of the functions of business
administration, how to behave
in an office environment and
how to use office equipment.
What will I study?
You’ll focus on developing time
management, communication
skills and teamwork.
Specific areas of study include:
• Working in business
and administration
• Creating business documents
• Supporting business meetings
• Communicating electronically
• Managing your health at work
• Job opportunities in
business administration
• Welcoming visitors
You will learn to research, work
independently and will participate
in practical workshops. Alongside
your course you’ll study English and
maths and take part in GAP work
placements within the College to
develop your skills and confidence.
What can I do next?
Progress to a Level 2 Diploma
in subjects including business,
IT or travel and tourism. With
further training and study you’ll
be well placed for business admin
roles in many organisations.
Course Code: 02781
Duration: 1 Year
Location: Watford and
Dacorum campus
Entry: 3 GCSEs (A*-D)
including English, or successful
completion of Level 1
programme, plus interview.
Are you ready to take the
world of business by storm?
Join us to explore exciting
career opportunities in small
businesses or large organisations
across a range of occupations
from finance to travel.
What will I study?
This course will develop the
knowledge and skills crucial for
success in business. Develop
your communication skills, team
working and time management.
You will study a range of
subjects including:
• Principles of marketing
• Business online
• Enterprise in business
• Small business planning
• Finance for business
• Promoting a brand
• Sales and personal selling
• Recruitment and employment
You’ll be taught by a skilled
team of staff eager to
pass on their professional
knowledge and experience.
Central to the course is learning
to research, work independently
and participating in practical
workshops. Alongside your
course you’ll study English and
maths and take part in GAP
What can I do next?
Progress to the Level 3 Diploma
in subjects including business,
IT or travel and tourism. Or
work in jobs as varied as sales,
buying, finance, administration
and general office work.
BTEC Diploma in
Business
Administration
BTEC Diploma in
BUSINESS
Business and Management:
Business Management, Marketing, Accounting,
Customer Services, Administration It’s not where you’re from, it’s where you’re going

Business and ManagementBusiness and Management
Course Code: 0274
Duration: 2 Years
Location: Watford and
Dacorum campus
Entry: 4 GCSEs (A*-C) including
English, or successful completion
of Level 2 Diploma, plus interview.
This popular course offers a
solid grounding in business.
You’ll develop a range of skills,
knowledge and personal qualities
essential to progress your career
– whether that’s further study
at degree level or straight into
work in the business sector.
What will I study?
We aim to replicate the pace of
working life, combining practical
and theoretical modules to
develop business awareness
as well as specific skills.
You’ll have the opportunity to set
up and run your own business,
selling a product that you have
created, while learning about the
essentials for business success.
Your assessments will be an
exciting mix of report writing,
presentations, creating newsletters,
observed role plays, group
activities and timed tasks.
Informing your thinking will
be teaching spanning change
management, remaining
competitive and discovering
how outside factors – including
new technologies, consumer
trends, environmental
issues or globalisation –
can affect a business.
In addition, you will study English
and maths and participate
in GAP work placements.
In year one you will study nine
subjects that will introduce
you to the specialist subjects
that are available to you in
year two. These are:
• The business environment
• Business resources
• Introduction to marketing
• Business communication
• Introduction to accounting
• Recruitment and
selection in business
• Aspects of contract
and business law
• Website design strategy
• Developing teams in business
In year two you’ll follow your
personal interests with a choice
of pathways including:
Finance
Management accounting,
exploring business, the
economic environment and
financial accounting. You will
need GCSE maths grade A-
C to study this pathway.
Human Resource management
Understanding employment law,
human resource management in
businesses and how to improve
performance in the workplace.
Law
Aspects of civil liability for
business, criminal law relating
to business and understanding
legal aspects of administration.
Marketing
Creative product promotion,
internet marketing and
relationship marketing.
In to work (new for 2015)
Aspects of employment law,
career planning, starting a small
business, managing a business
event, visual merchandising in
retail and technology in business.
What can I do next?
Successful students can progress
into work across a wide range
of business-based careers.
Further study options include the
Foundation degree in business
with a specialism – either here
at West Herts College or at
university. Over 80% of our
students progress to university to
study a BA/BSc (Hons) degree.
BTEC extended
Diploma in Business
Business and
Management
Intermediate
Apprenticeships
Business and
Management
Advanced
Apprenticeships
Course Code: Dependent
on your pathway
Duration: 1 Year
Location: Employer’s workplace
and Watford campus
Entry: 3 GCSEs (A*–D) including
English and maths are preferred,
plus assessments at interview.
You should be employed prior
to the start of the course.
Our business and management
apprenticeships will develop
your knowledge and skills,
enabling you to work in a huge
variety of jobs ranging from
business administration and
customer service to accounting
and management roles.
Depending on your area of interest
and job, our apprenticeships
can help you work towards
your qualification while at work.
You will build and develop a
range of transferable skills such
as problem solving, project
management, organising meetings
and IT and accounting.
In addition you’ll learn the key
aspects of good customer
service, effective communication
and people management.
You’ll learn your skills at work with
your employer, attending College
to gain theoretical knowledge
and to pass assessments.
study English, maths and IT and
learn more about employment
rights and responsibilities.
What can I do next?
Continue at work or progress to a
Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
programme in a related field.
Duration: 18 months
and Watford campus
Entry: 4 GCSEs (A*–C) including
Ideal for people working in an
administrative or customer service
role wanting to develop their higher
level knowledge to enhance their
career prospects. You should be
taking on more responsibilities,
managing projects, implementing
changes or developing others.
This course provides you with
the essential knowledge and
understanding needed in
administrative and supervisory
roles. You will practice your
communication and people skills
as well as developing key attributes
such as accuracy, attention to
detail and organisational skills.
You’ll be learning at work with
your employer, attending College
to complete your theoretical
knowledge and pass assessments.
Areas of study can include:
• Contributing to decision-making
• Supervising a team in a
business environment
• Contributing to running a project
• Planning and organising meetings
• Analysing and reporting data
• Communicating effectively
with customers
• Delivering seamless customer
service with a team and resolving
customer service problems
Alongside your course you will
develop your English and maths
skills and learn about employment
What can I do next?
Successful apprentices can
progress to a Foundation degree
or to university to study business
or a related course. Or continue at
work in jobs such as administration
officer, admin team leader, office
supervisor, personal assistant
or legal or medical secretary.
“Thank you to all
business staff. You
have inspired me and
made me love business
more than ever.”
Georgina Barke
Level 3 Business

Business and ManagementBusiness and Management
Duration: 2 Years
Entry: 120 UCAS points which
must be made up of at least one
full GCE A level (A2), a BTEC
or equivalent, plus GCSE maths
and English language (Grade
C or above) or equivalent.
Apply via UCAS using
the following codes:
Business N101
Business with Accounting: N1N3
Business with HRM: N1N6
Business with Information
Systems: N1I2
Business with Marketing: N1N5
Business with Law: N1MC
Campus code: W
Build your knowledge of
businesses and how they operate
successfully. Developing your
understanding of the fundamentals
before specialising in:
Accounting
Covering areas of financial and
management accounting.
Human resource management
Exploring recruitment, selection
and induction as well as
performance management
and employee involvement.
Information systems
An in-depth look at systems
analysis and design as well as
information management.
Marketing
Looking at marketing practice
and relationship marketing.
Law
Covering applied contract law,
employment law as well as
English and European legal
systems and procedures.
Check our website for the latest
on each of these specialisms.
You’ll bring your ideas to life with
a work-based learning project that
combines invaluable professional
experience with gaining wider
practical knowledge of business.
What can I do next?
Pursue your professional career
straight away with a qualification
that’s recognised and valued. Or
progress your studies at university,
achieving an Honours degree in
a business area or related field.
Business and Business
with specialisms –
founDation degree
“Just back from Brussels - an
amazing experience. Met great
people and while visiting the
European Parliament I was
interviewed by the BBC.”
Mark Gurney
Level 3 Business
Saturday 7 March
2015
Watford
HE

Construction
Course Code: 0241
Duration: 1 Year
Location: Dacorum campus
Entry: 2 GCSEs (E – G) in English
and maths or Entry Level 3
qualification, plus interview.
Lay the foundations for a great
career in an essential industry with
this introduction to brickwork.
Bricklayers don’t just build and
repair walls, they work with many
different materials and tools
– using various techniques to
produce creative structures and
buildings suitable for a specific
purpose. It’s work that will be
admired for years to come.
What will I study?
This Level 1 Diploma is a foundation
qualification, giving you the
underpinning knowledge you
need to prepare you for further
study or work in this booming
industry. The course is workshop
and classroom based. You will
study subjects including:
• Setting out for basic
masonry structures
• Mix construction materials
• Construct block walling
• Construct brick walling
• Construct cavity walling
You’ll develop English and maths
skills and take part in GAP
work experiences to get you
ready for the working world.
What can I do next?
Successfully complete this course
and you can progress to the
Level 2 Diploma in Brickwork.
Course Code: 0242
Duration: 1 Year
If you’re a practical person who
loves seeing something you build
come to life before your eyes, then
the specialist craft of plastering
could be for you. Skilled plasterers
are always in demand, with many
more jobs set to be created over
the next few years. It’s a timeless
skill in a construction sector that’s
growing at its fastest rate for six
years (OECD, September 2013).
This Level 1 programme is a great
way to take your first steps in the
industry, giving you the practical
skills and confidence you need
to progress into work or on to
higher levels of study at College.
What will I study?
The course is workshop and
classroom based, giving you
the best of both theory and
practical learning. You’ll learn
about solid and fibrous plastering
through subjects such as:
• Preparing background surfaces
and plaster materials
• Applying plaster materials
to internal backgrounds
• Producing components
from moulds
• Forming sand and
cement screeds
You’ll have the opportunity to
develop practical English and
maths skills and take part in
GAP work experiences to get
you ready for employment.
What can I do next?
Successfully complete this course
and you can progress to the
Level 2 Diploma in Plastering.
Diploma in
Bricklaying
Diploma in
Plastering
Construction Skills:
Plastering, Brickwork, Carpentry, Maintenance, Repair
Saturday 28 February
2015
Dacorum

ConstructionConstruction
Course Code: 0281
Duration: 1 Year
qualificaction, plus interview.
Carpenters and joiners make and
install wooden fixtures and fittings
as part of construction projects. As
a job it’s a great way to combine
construction with creativity. If
you enjoy making things and are
looking for a practical career you
could find it very rewarding.
On this course you’ll gain a
foundation qualification in
carpentry and joinery. Our tutors
gained many years of experience
as carpenters and joiners before
qualifying as teachers and always
enjoy passing on their knowledge.
What will I study?
The first few weeks will be spent
building up your skills in bench
work with a series of practical
tasks. As a carpenter you’ll need
to follow technical drawings and
plans. So you need an eye for
detail and good maths skills for
measuring and working out angles.
Course subjects include:
• Knowledge of construction
technology
• Preparing and using carpentry
and joinery portable power tools
• Producing woodworking joints
• Health, safety and welfare
in construction
Alongside your course you’ll develop
practical English and maths skills
and have the opportunity to take
part in GAP work experiences to get
you ready for the working world.
What can I do next?
Following successful completion
you can progress to the Level 2
Diploma in Carpentry. You can
also find work as an assistant
to carpenters and joiners.
Course Code: 0254
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: Successful completion
of the Level 1 diploma in
brickwork, plus interview.
The construction sector employs
some 8% of the UK workforce.
Demand for young, qualified
tradespeople is strong, with an
estimated 180,000 new bricklayers
needed by 2018 if demand for
construction is to be met.
Good bricklayers are practical
people who enjoy working
outdoors and are happy to work
at height. They also take pride
in their work, knowing it will be
on show for years to come.
What will I study?
This course builds on the Level 1
Diploma, developing a wider range
of skills from interpreting working
drawings to building solid walling,
cavity walling and masonry cladding.
You’ll be learning in our newly
refurbished workshops, with our
experienced staff supporting you
every step of the way. The course
starts with practical demonstrations
of the essential skills before
moving on to practice sessions.
Your course subjects will include:
• Constructing masonry cladding
• Setting out masonry structures
• Constructing solid walling
incorporating isolated
and attached piers
• Constructing cavity walling
forming masonry structures
You’ll also develop practical English
and maths skills and take part
in GAP work experiences to get
you ready for the world of work.
What can I do next?
you can progress to the Level
3 Diploma in Brickwork.
Course Code: 0255
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: Successful completion of
the Level 1 Diploma in
Plastering, plus interview.
The best plasterers have a wide
set of practical and creative
skills. Attention to detail is
essential to ensure a finished
job on interior walls is spot on.
You’ll learn about materials and
planning projects as well as expert
handling of the specialist tools of
the trade, not forgetting creativity
and a good head for heights.
Job opportunities are extensive.
Most of us know about one part of
the plasterer’s work: the applying
of wet finishes to walls, ceilings
and floors. This is called solid
plastering. There’s also fibrous
plastering, which involves making
ornamental plasterwork in a
workshop or on site – the kind
of plasterwork you see on the
ceilings of decorative buildings.
What will I study?
Course subjects focus on:
• Applying plaster materials
to internal surfaces
• Fixing dry lining and plasterboard
products to interiors
• Applying render materials
to external surfaces
• Forming sand and
cement screeds
• Positioning and securing
fibrous plaster components
You will develop your practical
English and maths skills by planning
volume of materials you need, as
well as other practical exercises.
What can I do next?
you can progress to the Level
3 Diploma in Plastering.
Course Code: 0293
Duration: 1 Year
carpentry, plus interview.
Carpenters and joiners make
and install wooden fixtures and
fittings as part of construction
projects. It is a highly rewarding
career for anyone that enjoys
working with wood.
The practical, work-related
nature of this course reflects
the working life of a carpenter.
Learning is by practical projects
and assignments based on
realistic workplace situations and
activities. It’s a solid foundation
for work and a stepping stone to
more advanced qualifications.
What will I study?
• Carrying out first and
second fixing operations
• Understanding construction
technology
• Understanding information,
quantities and communication
• Preparing and using carpentry
and joinery portable power tools
During your course you’ll also
develop key English and maths
skills and take part in GAP work
experiences to give you the skills
sought after by employers.
What can I do next?
Progress to an advanced carpentry
programme at Level 3, or the
NVQ alongside work, or start
work as a junior carpenter.
Diploma in Carpentry
and Joinery
Diploma in
Bricklaying
Diploma in
Plastering
Diploma in
Site Carpentry
“Will be going to
@westhertscollege
next year! Chuffed”
@desmith19

ConstructionConstruction
Course Code: 0284
Duration: 1 Year
brickwork, plus interview.
If you’ve ever watched a show like
Grand Designs, you’ll know how
much work goes into creating a
single house. Countless skilled tasks
are required, from the architect’s
first sketches to the final lick of
paint on the cupboard doors.
At the heart of any building,
though, is the brickwork. It needs
to stand the test of time and it’s
a skill much in demand today,
with an estimated 180,000 new
bricklayers needed by 2018.
What will I study?
Extend your Level 2 Diploma
experience and with new
skills and techniques.
Course subjects focus on:
• Repairing and maintaining
masonry structures
• Constructing complex
masonry structures
• Constructing decorative features
• Analysing technical
information, quantities and
communicating with others
You’ll also have the opportunity
to obtain a CSCS card, providing
proof that you have the required
training and qualifications for
working on construction sites.
In addition, the course will develop
your practical English and maths
skills and you can take part in
GAP work experiences to get you
ready for the world of work.
What can I do next?
you can progress your studies
to a higher level or go straight
into work on construction sites.
Course Code: 0282
Duration: 1 Year
of the Level 2 Diploma in
Plastering, plus interview.
Fine tune the skills you need
for doing a professional
job and getting on with the
tradespeople working alongside
you on a construction site.
Your job could be applying different
kinds of plaster to internal walls
and ceilings through to rendering
external walls with coatings such as
sand and cement or pebble-dash
What will I study?
You’ll be building on your
Level 2 Diploma experience,
developing your skills and
knowledge to a higher level with
an opportunity to specialise in
solid plastering. Solid plasterers
are in-demand and the need for
their expertise is set to rise.
• Applying plaster
materials to produce
• Complex internal surfaces
• Applying render to produce
• Complex external surfaces
• Preparing and running
in-situ moulds
You’ll develop practical English
and maths skills and take part
in GAP work experiences to
get you ready for work.
What can I do next?
It’s estimated that the UK
construction industry will need an
additional 1,000 plasterers and dry
Liners every year till 2018. You can
join the industry with construction
firms or as independent plasterers.
Course Code: 0304
Duration: 1 Year
of the Level 2 diploma in site
carpentry, plus interview.
Timber is an essential part of just
about every structure and it’s
the carpenter’s job to prepare it
and put it into place. Qualified
tradespeople are always in
demand, whether it’s repairing
structures or building brand new
ones. It’s a rewarding career for
practical people with expert skills.
Following technical drawings and
plans requires an eye for detail,
with maths skills essential for
measuring lengths and angles.
Not forgetting creativity and a
strong sense of professional pride.
What will I study?
This course develops the skills
needed to become a professional
carpenter. You’ll develop a wider
understanding of the construction
industry and explore sustainability
and the environmental impact
of the construction industry.
• Analysing technical information,
quantities and communication
• Erecting complex structural
carcassing components
• Analysing the construction
industry and built environment
You’ll develop practical English and
maths skills and take part in GAP
work experiences to give you the
skills employers are looking for.
What can I do next?
you can start work straight
away or progress your studies
to a higher technical level.
Duration: 2 Years
English are preferred, plus
assessments at interview. You
must be employed prior to
the start of the course.
This Level 2 apprenticeship
develops general skills in
maintenance and building
care. Ideally suited for people
responsible for maintenance
tasks at work, it is also the
basis for further study and the
development of specific skills.
What will I study?
The focus is on practical experience
on site, with attendance at
college to acquire the necessary
theory, underpinning knowledge
and wider practical training.
Apprentices must achieve a
Level 1 award in English and
maths and complete a workbook
relating to employment
Subject areas include:
• Carpentry and joinery
• Bricklaying and plastering
• Erecting working platforms
• Plastering
• Plumbing
• Painting and decorating
During your apprenticeship
you will develop practical
What can I do next?
Depending on your area of interest
and the skills you have learnt at
this level you’ll be able to progress
to an advanced apprenticeship in
carpentry, brickwork, plastering
or other related areas.
Diploma in
Bricklaying
Diploma in
Plastering:
Solid Work
Diploma in
SITE CARPENTRY
Maintenance
Operations
Intermediate
Apprenticeship
180,000 new recruits
needed by 2018 to meet
the increasing demand for
construction workers.

Electrical Installation and Plumbing
Course Code: 9981
Duration: 1 Year
Location: Kings Langley campus
Entry: 2 GCSEs (E–G) including
maths and science, Entry Level
3 qualification, plus a colour
blindness test and a range of
relevant assessments at interview.
Thinking of a career in the electrical
installation industry? Qualified
electricians can choose from a
range of specific occupations, from
working on major construction
projects to domestic work in
people’s home.
Demand for the professional
expertise of all electricians is
growing, with many qualified
professionals setting up
their own businesses.
What will I study?
This course covers the essentials of
electrical installation – the sort of
work done in domestic properties.
You’ll be studying in our specialist
workshops at Kings Langley
campus, learning from tutors with
years of professional experience.
The focus is on practical projects
to develop essential skills.
Complementing this is theory work
in the classroom, with tutors on
hand from day one to support you.
• Practical electrical installations
• Health and safety
• Basic electrical testing
and maintenance
Practical assessments and
multiple choice exams will test
your electrical knowledge. We
also focus on wider skills, so you
can look forward to completing
a GAP work placement and to
developing your English and maths.
What can I do next?
Successful students can
progress to the Level 2 Diploma
in Electrical Installation.
Course Code: 8916
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 3 GCSEs (A*–D)
including English, maths and
science, plus a colour blindness
test and a range of relevant
assessments at interview.
This qualification is a stepping
stone to becoming a fully-
qualified electrician. You’ll learn,
develop and practise the key skills
required for a range of careers in
the electrotechnology sector.
What will I study?
The focus is on an all-
round understanding of the
electrical trade, so you’ll take
a mix of practical and theory
lessons – gaining a range
of experiences and skills to
prepare you for working life.
• Electrical installation
theory/technology
• Practical installation
competencies
• Basic electronics
As well as working towards your
Electrical Installation Certificate
you’ll be supported to develop
your English and maths skills.
You’ll be studying in our specialist
workshops at Kings Langley
campus, learning from tutors with
years of professional experience.
Professional experience on site with
an employer is also key to success.
All West Herts College students
take GAP work placements
but we’ll also encourge you to
find additional opportunities
locally with employers.
What can I do next?
Successful students can progress
to the Level 3 Diploma in
Electrical Installation (Buildings
and Structures), NVQ in
Electrical Installation part
time. Possible careers include
areas of electrical installation,
including alarms, maintenance,
heating and ventilation.
Diploma in Electrical
Installation
Installation
(Buildings and Structures)
Electrical Installation and Plumbing:
Electrics, Plumbing, Building Services
“So happy to
be back at my
favourite place after
over two weeks!”
@WesthertsCollege
@BlueTankEngine

Electrical Installation and PlumbingElectrical Installation and Plumbing
Course Code: 8116
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: Level 2 Diploma in
Electrical Installations (Buildings
and Structures), plus a colour
blindness test and a range of
Professional electricians are central
to modern industry, whether
it’s bringing heat and light to
domestic homes or powering
major engineering projects.
Specialisms in electrical
engineering ranges from
transporting data along fibre
optic cables to programming
computer-controlled ‘intelligent’
buildings. Then there’s renewable
technology – everything from
wind turbines to photovoltaic
systems capable of converting
the sun’s energy into electricity.
What will I study?
This course sets you up for the
future with professional skills
across electrical instalation,
inspections and equipment testing.
Subjects covered include:
• Testing and commissioning
• Fault diagnosis and rectification
• Health and safety
during inspection
It’s the foundation for a solid
career across the electrical
installation industry. To preper you
for working life you’ll complete
GAP work placement and, with
support from us, develop your
What can I do next?
Careers open to successful
students incude the specialisms
of alarms, heating and ventilation
as well as more general
electrical maintenance.
Duration: 3 Years
plus a colour blindness test
and a range of relevant
should be employed prior
This course covers the
installation, maintenance and
repair of electrotechnical
equipment – everything from
installing electrical systems in
a new building to maintaining
machinery on a production line.
What will I study?
This qualification consists of the
Technical Certificate at Level 2
and 3, the NVQ at Level 3 and
Level 2 in English and maths.
It’s achieved through practical
experience on site and
attendance at college one day
a week to build the necessary
theory and knowledge.
You’ll follow nine units to complete
the technical certificates over a
three year period. The NVQ is
gained over a 42-month period,
the final part of the qualification
being the AM2 exam.
• Diagnosing and correcting
electrical faults
• Preparing and installing
wiring systems, wiring
enclosures and equipment
• Connecting wiring systems
and equipment using safe,
approved methods
What can I do next?
Careers open to successful
students incude the specialisms
of alarm systems, heating and
ventilation as well as more
general electrical maintenance.
Installation
(Buildings and Structures)
electrical
installation
advanced apprenticeship
Course Code: 9980
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 2 GCSEs (E–G) including
maths and science, Entry Level
3 qualification, colour blindness
test, plus a range of relevant
At some point we all need the
services of a plumber. It’s an
industry that’s changing fast with
technology but one which will
always require qualified engineers
- whether the job’s big or small.
What will I study?
This course covers the principles
and practical aspects of domestic
plumbing. It combines the practical
skills of pipe bending and joining
with knowledge of basic plumbing
systems layout and installation.
Subjects covered include:
• All domestic aspects of
plumbing, heating and sanitation
• Hot and cold water systems
• Plumbing sciences
• Environmental awareness
General skills range from positive
working relationships to health
and safety. Understanding
energy efficiency at home and
the workplace also features.
You’ll take part in GAP work
experience and develop your
English and maths skills in a
practical plumbing setting.
These skills will help you
find work and do well.
What can I do next?
Successful students progress
to City and Guilds courses
at Level 2 in Plumbing.
Course Code: 0247
Duration: 1 Year
maths, English and science, or
Level 1 Diploma, plus a range of
An ideal option for people new
to plumbing who want to build
a career in the sector or one of
its related fields. All the basic
skills are covered, providing the
essential skills and experience
needed to progress further.
When you have successfully
completed this qualification
you will be at an Improver/
Plumber’s Mate level.
What will I study?
You’ll study a combination of
practical techniques and theory
based applications, including
plumbing installations.
Key subjects include:
• Key principles
• Common plumbing processes
• Cold and hot water systems
• Above ground drainage
• Central heating systems
• Electrical supply
• Environmental awareness
This is a workshop and classroom
based course, with assessment
through practical skills tests,
observations of your work,
assignments, projects and online
assessments with City Guilds.
In readiness for employment or
further study, you’ll complete
a GAP work programme and
develop your English and maths.
What can I do next?
Progress to Level 3 Diploma in
Plumbing. Or, if you are employed
you can study the Level 2 NVQ.
diploma in Plumbing

diploma in Plumbing

Electrical Installation and PlumbingElectrical Installation and Plumbing
Course Code: 0308
Duration: 1 Year
English or maths or Level 2
Diploma, plus a range of relevant
Want to take the next step in your
training as a plumber? Build on
your knowledge with the skills
you need for work in plumbing
and building services engineering,
including design aspects of
plumbing and heating systems.
What will I study?
Comprehensive training across:
• Environmental
technology systems
• Plumbing system
installation planning
• Complex cold water systems
• Domestic hot water
• Sanitation and drainage systems
• Central heating systems
• Introduction to domestic
gas principles
You’ll study and be assessed in
our specialist workshops and
classrooms, with regular practical
tests and the development
of a written portfolio.
In readiness for employment or
further study, you’ll complete
a GAP work programme and
developing your English and maths.
What can I do next?
Progress to a plumbing NVQ or
work in plumbing and building
services engineering or take
additional qualifications such as
accreditations for gas installations.
Duration: 3 Years
The plumbing industry employs
skilled engineers and craftspeople
working with a wide range of
materials and technologies.
This apprenticeship focuses on
plumbing systems, components
and their installation.
You’ll learn about installation and
maintenance – gaining a certificate
in basic plumbing skills that covers
safety, cold and hot water systems,
sanitation, and central heating
What will I study?
• Maintaining effective plumbing
working relationships
• Installing non-complex plumbing
systems and components
• Decommissioning non-
complex plumbing systems
• Maintaining non-complex
plumbing systems
and components
You’ll be required to achieve a Level
2 award in English and maths and
at Level 1 in IT. And complete a
workbook relating to employment
rights and responsibilities, as well
as a range of assessments including
practical, written and online tests.
What can I do next?
Successful completion opens the
door to the Plumbing Advanced
Apprenticeship Level 3.
diploma in Plumbing

Plumbing Intermediate
Apprenticeship
“I’m delighted to win, it’s a great
achievement. The challenges
tested my skills and I actually
enjoyed the pressure.”
Owen Gronow,
Winner of the World Skills
Regional Plumbing Competition
Did you know?
There are 29,000
plumbers needed by
2018 and on average
a plumber earns
£30,000 per year.
Source: Construction Industry
Training Board (CITB)
Saturday
28 February
2015
Kings Langley

Engineering
Engineering holds many fantastic
and exciting opportunities.
In today’s world engineers
work in an environment that
encompasses the use of cutting
edge technologies and innovative
solutions, for example you could
find yourself designing the next
generation of Smart Phones,
designing robots, manufacturing
components for fighter jets or
developing sustainable energy.
Study engineering and you could
be on the road to becoming a
highly-skilled technician, able to
work in a variety of disciplines
including: product design,
aerospace, manufacturing,
electrical and electronics and
communications, plus mechanical,
nuclear and energy, environment
or transport engineering.
Diplomas in
Engineering
Engineering:
Transport, mechanical, manufacturing
and sustainable energy Zero tolerance of discrimination, bullying and harassment
To find out more about our new
Engineering courses starting in
2015, call us on 01923 812345
or visit westherts.ac.uk

Food Academy, Hospitality and Event Management
I N
V I T A T I O
N
Course Code: 8154
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 2 GCSEs (E-G) or Entry
Level 3 qualification, plus interview.
Food is at the heart of everything
we do and once you have the
confidence to cook from scratch,
then your have a skill for life.
This course is a great starting
point to your career in food. You
don’t need to have previous food
experience but we want you
to have loads of enthusiasm.
You’ll learn to prepare, cook and
serve a wide range of fresh and
pre-prepared foods, practising your
skills with the latest equipment
in our professional kitchens.
What will I study?
While in the kitchen you will be
learning a number of skills including:
• Learning about food
safety in catering
• Exploring jobs in the catering
and hospitality industry
• Discovering healthier
foods and special diets
You’ll also develop your English
and maths skills which are essential
if you’re weighing, measuring
and changing recipes. You’ll
also gain valuable work skills
with GAP work placements.
What can I do next?
Progress to the Level 2
Diploma in Culinary skills.
Course Code: 0398
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 2 GCSEs (A–E), plus
interview. Applications from
people with related interests
and experiences welcome.
If you have a passion for cooking
and a genuine desire to be a
chef – then you’re on the right
course. We’ll get you started by
learning the practical skills you
need to work in the kitchen. You
don’t need previous experience
but you do need to have a
passion for food and cooking.
On this course you’ll be introduced
to the theory and practical skills
you need to be successful either in
the kitchen as a professional chef
or elsewhere in a restaurant. There
are also opportunities in hotels,
event catering or contract catering.
You’ll be learning in our professional
restaurant and kitchens, using
the latest techniques and
equipment to prepare and
serve to paying customers.
What will I study?
You’ll start by learning and
developing really good kitchen
skills, central to that is an
understanding of food safety
and health and safety.
In the kitchen you’ll be trained to
use a number of techniques on
a wide range of food including:
• Steaming
• Baking
• Roasting
• Grilling
• Frying
• Boiling
• Poaching
You’ll also get to know more
about healthier foods and
special diets, learn to use the
specialist equpment in the
kitchen and find out more about
working in the industry.
Plus you’ll develop:
• Practical English and maths
skills for weighing, measuring
and changing recipes
• Skills for working life on
GAP work placements
In addition to your main
qualification you’ll gain awards in:
• Food Safety, Health and
Safety at Level 2
• VRQ Level 1 Food and
Beverage Service
What can I do next?
in Professional Cookery.
Introduction to
Culinary Skills
Introduction to
Professional Cookery
Food Academy, Hospitality and Event Management:
Chef, Pastry Chef, Customer Service and Front of House, Food
and Drink Service, Hotel Management, Events Management
FOOD ACADEMY,
HOSPITALITY
EVENT MANAGEMENT

Food Academy, Hospitality and Event ManagementFood Academy, Hospitality and Event Management
Course Code: 8150
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 3 GCSEs (A*-D), or
successful completion of the Level
1 programme, plus interview.
Take your love of food to the
next step and develop your skills
in the kitchen. You’ll need to
be enthusiastic and energetic.
We’ll give you the skills across a
range of food preparation and
cooking techniques, developing
your knowledge ready for a
career in the catering industry.
What will I study?
You’ll be developing a
whole range of skills across
the kitchen including:
• Preparing and cooking stocks,
soups, sauces, fish, shellfish,
meat, fruit and vegetables
• Producing biscuit, cake
and sponges
• Learning about catering
operations, costs and
menu planning
You’ll learn to create recipes and
menus, cover the essentials of
food safety, health and hygiene
standards, and the importance
of producing healthier dishes.
Plus you’ll develop:
• Practical English and maths
skills for weighing, measuring
and changing recipes
• Skills for working life on
GAP work placements
What can I do next?
Progress to the Level 3
qualification. Or start work
straightaway in a junior position
across the sector from cafes to
clubs and contract catering.
Course Code: 0388
Duration: 1 Year
Level 1 of Diploma in Professional
Cookery or NVQ Level 1 Catering
Certificate, plus interview.
Take your next step towards your
career as a professional chef on
this exciting and practial course.
Build on your skills and enthusiasm
by learning to make creative
as well as really great food.
You’ll spend time in our professional
kitchen – preparing and serving
food to paying customers in our
public restaurant. You’ll develop
your culinary skills and get the
confidence you need to join this
growing and popular industry.
What will I study?
In the kitchen you’ll be learning
across a number of sections:
• Preparing soups and
sauces, fruit and vegetables,
poultry, meat and offal
• Working with fish and shellfish,
rice, pasta, grains and egg dishes
• Preparing desserts, puddings
and bakery products
You’ll discover how to make
healthier foods and learn more
about special diets. Create
exciting and innovative menus
and learn about essentials like
food safety and working in the
industry. In addition you will:
• Study for the VRQ Level 2 in
Food and Beverage Service
• Take a six-week work placement
in a restaurant or kitchen
• Develop your practical
English and maths skills
• Benefit from masterclasses and
visits to industry exhibitions
What can I do next?
in Advanced Professional
Cookery or Diploma in Hospitality.
Possible careers include
commis chef or related jobs,
plus opportunities across the
food and beverage sector.
Course Code: 2391
Duration: 1 Year
Level 2 Diploma in Professional
Cookery or equivalent, plus
interview.
Food is one of life’s greatest
joys, by studying to be a chef
you’ll be bringing your passion
to life and sharing your creativity
with the people you serve.
This prestigious course is for
people aiming for the top in a
professional kitchen. It develops
the skills you’ll need to work
as a professional chef across a
range of kitchen departments
from pastry to sauces and learn
about supervisory techniques
needed to run a top kitchen.
What will I study?
You will have the opportunity to
devise your own signature dishes,
with opportunities to shine in
competitions and events. You’ll also
be encouraged to find part-time
work, so you can practice your
culinary skills in the real world.
In the kitchen you’ll perfect your
advanced cooking skills by:
• Preparing poultry, game, fish,
shellfish, meat and vegetables
• Preparing sauces, purees
and side dishes
You’ll also learn about:
• Professional cookery
• Kitchen and larder
practice and theory
• Practical English and maths skills
Then put your skills to the test
as head chef on the night in our
professional training kitchens. You’ll
be planning menus for inventive
dishes, purchasing ingredients
online, and preparing meals to
paying customers in our restaurant.
You will also plan and organise
our sell out themed restaurant
nights (details of which can
be found on our website).
Supporting you throughout will
be our professional tutors who
are always eager to share their
wealth of industry experience.
What can I do next?
Progress to a Foundation degree
or Honours degree. Or start
work straight away as a senior
commis chef in hotel, restaurant
or contract catering kitchen.
Diploma in
Culinary Skills
Diploma in
Diploma in Advanced
Professional
CookerY
(Kitchen and Larder)
“Just went to West Herts
to cook with College
Students for the day, and
work in the restaurant.
One of the best
experiences I’ve had.”
@FarisBak

Diploma in
Hospitality
Course Code: 0392
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 3 GCSEs (A*–D), or
successful completion of Level
1 programme, plus interview.
Hospitality is all about working
with people and providing
great customer service. On
this course you’ll be learning
all about the industry, while
developing your communication
and teamwork skills. From here
you can progress your studies
at College or start work in the
sector, which is expanding rapidly
in London and the South East.
What will I study?
Develop your professional skills and
confidence with subjects including:
• Introducing the
hospitality industry
• Working in hospitality industry
• Delivering the hospitality
customer experience
• Food safety and
health and safety
• How the industry contributes
to healthy lifestyles
• Team working in hospitality
• Costing and controlling finances
• Planning, preparing, cooking
and finishing food
• Contemporary world food
and cooking skills
In addition, you develop
practical English and maths
skills to help you at work.
What can I do next?
Start work in the hospitality or
service industries or progress to
the Level 3 Diploma in Hospitality
and Event Management.
Course Code: 03871
Duration: 2 Years
including English or maths, or
equivalent, plus interview.
Like the idea of a career in the
diverse world of hospitality event
management? It’s a growing
sector across London and the
South East of England – and
employers are always on the look
out for young people with the
right personality and set of skills.
Communication and team working
are central to success in the
sector, which is why this course
develops inter-personal skills, plus
planning, research and marketing.
These are firm foundations
for starting your career and
progressing into management.
What will I study?
Event management begins with
an initial enquiry from a customer
right through to the day when you
will hand over to the operations
team to run the event. As part of
a team it will be your job to make
sure your client’s needs are met
and that their event is a success.
Developing these skills is a
focus on topics including:
• The hospitality industry
• Financial control in hospitality
• The principles of supervising
customer service
• Performance in hospitality
• Planning and managing
a hospitality event
• Marketing
In addition, you’ll develop:
• Practical skills in
English and maths
• Experience of employment
on GAP work placements
What can I do next?
Start work in the sector
straightaway or progress to higher-
level qualifications in hospitaliy
and event management.
Course Code: Depending
on your pathway
Duration: 1 Year
and Watford campus
interview. You should be employed
prior to the start of the course.
If you want to get straight into
the kitchen, our Food Academy
apprenticeships reflect the skills
required to work across a range of
opportunities, with specialisms in:
• Food production – in the
kitchen of a restaurant, hotel or
contract catering environment
• Food service – providing
excellent customer service
and serving food and
beverages in restaurants,
front of house or at events
• Professional cookery –
developing the skills to work
as a chef in a restaurant
or professional kitchen
These apprenticeships are aimed at
people in full-time employment. If
you do not already have a job, we
can help you find an employer to
support your apprenticeship. You’ll
learn at work and attend College to
develop your theoretical knowledge
and complete assessments.
Depending on your apprenticeship
and job, you can expect to cover:
• Planning and preparing
food for inventive dishes
• Working with food suppliers
• Storing and holding food safely
• Dealing with customer service
In addition, you will develop:
• Practical English and maths to
help in your day-to-day job
• An understanding of health
and safety and food safety
• Employment rights and
responsibilities
What can I do next?
Your skills will set you up for
developing your career. For
further study, you could progress
to the Advanced apprenticeship
in hospitality or catering.
Course Code: Depending
on your pathway
Duration: 1 Year
and Watford campus
interview. You should be employed
prior to the start of the course.
Develop your practical and
theoretical knowledge with
an apprenticeship you can
tailor to particular areas within
the hospitality sector.
Build on your existing experience at
work with options to specialise in:
• Food and bevereage
services – working in
restaurants, conference and
banqueting and events
• Hospitality services – working
more independently in customer
service and hospitality roles
• Front of house reception – with
hotels and other venues
Develop essential skills at
work, with time at College
studying the theory you need to
complete your assessments.
Customer service, communication
skills and team work are all
central to success. In addition
you’ll develop your practical
English and maths, plus an
understanding of employment
What can I do next?
Start work in a variety of roles
from front of house staff and
customer service and wider
hospitality roles. Progress your
studies with an Advanced
Apprenticeship in Hospitality.
Diploma in
Hospitality and
Event Management
Food Academy
Intermediate
Apprenticeships
Hospitality
Intermediate
Apprenticeships
Looking for an apprenticeship job?
We can offer advice on finding
a job and put you in touch with
supportive employers. Visit
our website for a list of all our
apprenticeship jobs or call us on
01923 812345 for more information.

Duration: 2 Years
and Watford campus
Entry: GCSEs (A*–C) including
should be employed prior to
Have you been working in the
hospitality industry for some time?
Gaining plenty of experience,
perhaps including supervising
others or managing resources?
If so, this apprenticeship could
be for you. It develops higher-
level skills and has a move
into management in mind.
What will I study?
Focus on a range of higher-
level areas including:
• Level 3 Certificate in Hospitality
and Catering Principles
• Level 3 NVQ Diploma in
• Developing productive working
relationships with colleagues
• Maintaining the health,
hygiene, safety and security
of the working environment
• Maintaining food safety
when storing, preparing
and cooking food
You will learn and practice your
skills at work, attending College to
complete assessments and develop
your theoretical knowledge.
In addition, you’ll develop practical
English and maths skills, and
What can I do next?
Your skills will set you up
for developing your career.
Options for further study
include the Level 3 Advanced
Apprenticeship Hospitality
Supervision and Leadership,
or Level 2 Team Leading.
Duration: 2 Years
and Watford campus
should be employed prior to
On this apprenticeship you will
be overseeing a team, with
responsibilites including:
• Running training sessions
and managing company
documentation
• Running shifts, reviewing staff
performance and rotas
• Managing your own
development plan
What will I study?
subjects including:
• Providing leadership for your team
• Developing productive working
relationships with colleagues
• Supervising functions
• Supervising food
production operations
• Contributing to promoting
hospitality services and products
• Contributing to the development
of recipes and menus
You will learn at work with your
employer, attending College to
complete assessments and develop
your theoretical knowledge.
In addition, you’ll develop practical
English and maths skills, and
What can I do next?
You’ll have many options, from
progress your education at
a higher level to working in
jobs such as general manager
or team leader. Working as a
product development manager
is another option. Alternatively,
this qualification is a spring board
for working towards owning your
own restaurant, pub or bar.
Professional
Cookery
Advanced Apprenticeship
Hospitality
Supervision
and Leadership
Advanced Apprenticeship
Saturday 7 March
2015
Watford

Forensic Science
Course Code: 0649
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 3 GCSEs at grade D or
above (including science and
either English or maths) or
completion of a related Level 1
Do you have a passion for science
and want to pursue this as a career?
The forensics field has high
expectations, with new recruits
frequently needing specific skills
whether they specialise in science,
forensics or criminal justice.
At West Herts College we ask
that you have an adaptive and
inquisitive mind and are eager
to learn. On offer is a course
providing a clear insight into
a range of related fields. From
these firm foundations you can
progress to further study, working
towards your career in science,
criminal justice, public services
or a range of related fields.
What will I study?
This courses spans a
range of complementary
specialisms including:
• Chemistry and our earth
• Energy and our universe
• Biology and our environment
• The living body
• Investigating a crime scene
• Science in medicine
• Using mathematical
tools in science
• Investigating human behaviour
In addition, there will be
opportunities to develop your
English and maths and take
part in GAP work placements.
What can I do next?
With further training and study you
will be able to enter a number of
careers within the forensic science
or related industries. At West
Herts College you can progress
to the Level 3 Diploma in Applied
Science (Forensic Science).
Course Code: 0268
Duration: 2 Years
Entry: 4 GCSEs (A* - C)
including English, maths
and double science, or a
BTEC Level 2 Diploma or
equivalent, plus interview.
This course is your next step
towards working in the fields
of science or criminology,
providing you with the key skills
and knowledge required for a
rewarding, professional career.
You’ll need to be methodical,
meticulous and ready to
accept new challenges.
As well as learning many
new skills you’ll find that your
communication skills develop.
Professional presentation is a
vital skill for any forensic scientist.
Learning how to assemble and
process data while being articulate
about your findings will be
central to your learning with us.
What will I study?
Subjects span natural science
and social science, providing
a theoretical and practical
feel for this progressive field
of study. Subjects include:
• Fundamentals of science
• Criminology
• Scientific practical techniques
• Using mathematical
tools in science
• Genetics and genetic engineering
• Chemical laboratory techniques
• Forensic evidence
collection and analysis
• Criminal investigation
procedures and practice
You’ll also study a range of
specialisms including:
• Working in the science industry
• Perceptions of science
• Practical chemical analysis
• Physiology of human
body systems
• Criminology
• Criminal psychology
• Microbiological techniques
• Chemistry for biology technicians
• Applications of forensic
psychology
• Scientific investigations
In addition, there will be
opportunities to develop your
English and maths and take
part in GAP work placements.
What can I do next?
The breadth of your learning
will ensure you can consider
a variety scientific technician
posts. Over 80% of students go
on to university, studying for
careers ranging from marine
biologist to clinical psychologist.
You could progress to a BA/
BSc Honours Degree in Forensic
Science or related area, or
the Higher National Diploma
(HND) in public services.
Diploma in
Applied Science
(Forensic Science)
EXTENDED Diploma in
Applied Science
(Forensic Science)
Forensic Science:
Forensics, Investigations, Lab Science

Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy
Diploma in
Hairdressing or
Hairdressing and
Beauty Therapy
NVQ Diploma in
Hairdressing
Diploma in Barbering

Course Code: 0670Q
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 2 GCSEs (E–G), or Level
1 qualification, plus interview.
Take your first step into a growing
industry that will satisfy your
ambition and challenge your artistic
side. On this exciting course you’ll
be involved with the creative
world of hairdressing or combined
hairdressing and beauty therapy.
Our hair and beauty salons
compete with best on the
high street, offering the latest
equipment and products. You will
be developing your techniques
with paying clients and learning the
skills that employers are looking for.
What will I study?
On offer here is a broad
introduction to the worlds of
hairstyling and beauty therapy.
You’ll go on visits to learn
about the latest trends, take
part in competitions and assist
in shows and exhibitions.
• Shampooing and
conditioning hair
• Blow drying and setting
• Plaiting and braiding
• Temporary colouring
• Applying basic make-up
• Nail art and skin care
study practical English and
maths skills and take part in GAP
work placement opportunities.
In readiness for progression
to Level 2 you’ll develop your
skills in colouring and cutting.
What can I do next?
You can start work as a junior in a
salon or progress to the NVQ Level
2 Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy.
Course Code: 2306Q
Duration: 1 Year
of Level 1 Diploma in
Hairdressing, plus interview.
Develop your hairdressing skills,
working alongside tutors with a
wealth of industry experience.
Our professional salons serve
paying customers and you’ll
be using the latest equipment
and highest-quality products.
Assessments will measure your
progress as your skills develop
across practical areas and specific
technical abilities. Creativity
plays an important part, too.
What will I study?
We’ll support and guide you
from the start as you work
towards becoming a stylist.
You’ll participate in the World
Skills Inter-College Competition,
and events such as Hair Around
the World and work with fashion
students to put on shows at
College and at external events.
• Advising and consulting
with clients
• Shampooing and conditioning
hair and scalp
• Blow drying, setting
and dressing hair
• Cutting and styling hair
• Hair colouring
skills and confidence.
What can I do next?
NVQ Level 3 Diploma in
Hairdressing, or work as a junior in
a salon, in television, on cruise ships
or as a photographic session stylist.
Course Code: 2425
Duration: 1 Year
Entry: 2 GCSEs (E-G) or
equivalent in Salon Services,
plus interview.
The VTCT Diploma in Barbering is
a qualification specifically designed
to develop practical skills in this
expanding professional area.
You’ll focus on cutting men’s
hair, but will also refine your skills
in specialisms such as: cutting
facial hair, providing effective
shampooing and conditioning,
styling services, plus offering
consultation service for clients.
What will I study?
You’ll develop practical barbering
skills to a high level, taking part in
special projects, demonstrations
and hands-on workshops. Tutors
will guide you from the start –
supporting and monitoring your
personal progress. You’ll have
your own clients and practice
in our professional salons.
• Shampooing and conditioning
the hair and scalp
• Styling men’s hair
• Cutting facial hair
• Scalp massage services
• Promoting products and
services to clients
• Colouring and lightening hair
What can I do next?
You’ll have the skills and
knowledge to join a barbers in
a junior role or continue your
study at Level 3 in barbering.
Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy:
Hairdressing, Barbering, Beauty Therapy, Make-up Artistry

Full-timeProspectus2015-16

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