Qualification Focus -
Pre-Access to Higher Education

Building Confidence, Skills and Knowledge Before HE

Pre-Access to HE qualifications provide learners with the opportunity to develop the knowledge, confidence and study skills needed before progressing to higher-level programmes. Whether returning to study after time away or needing to strengthen academic skills, a more gradual route into higher education may be the most suitable path for some learners.

Typically delivered at Level 2, Pre Access to HE courses are designed for adults 19+ and act as a stepping stone for those preparing to move on to Access to Higher Education Diplomas or vocational qualifications.  Pre Access to HE courses provide a supportive environment to nurture your learners’ journey to degree-level study, helping them gain essential subject knowledge while developing the study skills and techniques needed to thrive at university.  They are mostly offered over a single year on a part-time basis, but some can be taken over two years. Pre Access to HE courses are a perfect fit to be studied alongside Maths and English qualifications in a learners study programme.

A Stepping Stone to Future Success

Key benefits of Pre-Access to HE qualifications:

• Support progression to higher-level study

• Build confidence and readiness for learning

• Develop essential study and employability skills

• Flexible and accessible learning

• Improve learner progression and retention

• Nationally recognised qualifications

Rather than focusing solely on subject knowledge, these programmes take a broader approach. They support the development of study skills, personal confidence and employability, key areas that underpin long-term success in education and beyond.

Flexible Learning with LASER Progression Qualifications 

LASER’s Progression qualifications form a flexible and adaptable foundation for Pre-Access to HE programmes. Centres can design tailored study pathways that meet the needs of their learners, whether focused on a specific progression route such as nursing or business, or offering a broader exploratory programme.

Available qualifications include:

•  LASER Level 2 Award in Progression

• LASER Level 2 Certificate in Progression

• LASER Level 2 Diploma in Progression

These qualifications can be combined and structured in different ways, allowing centres to create programmes that align with learner needs, local priorities and progression goals.

Supporting Progression Pathways

Many centres are already using LASER Progression qualifications as part of their Pre-Access offer, designing structured programmes that guide learners toward further education or training. These programmes often include a mix of academic skills development, subject exploration and personal development, ensuring learners are fully prepared for progression.

A Strong Foundation for the Future

Pre-Access to HE qualifications provides more than just a route into further study, they offer a second chance, a confidence boost and a clear pathway forward. By supporting learners at the right stage in their journey, these programmes play a crucial role in widening participation and enabling long-term success.

How to Offer these Units

To deliver these units, your organisation must be a LASER Approved Centre. If you are not yet approved, we welcome new applications, visit our Becoming a LASER Centre page. If you're already an Approved Centre, simply submit a New Course Notification Form before delivery.

📞 If you have any questions or would like to discuss Pre Access to HE Courses further,  please get in touch with Sally Kent our Relationship Manger -  s.kent@laser-awards.org.uk