Community Learning  

Some, but not all, CCLL initiatives offer Higher Education opportunities through the delivery of modules attached to the Certificate of Higher Education (Combined Open Studies) Programme.  There are over 150 modules within the Programme to choose from with the subject areas being grouped into the Social Sciences, English, Cultural Studies, ICT and Business Management.

CCLL's Community Learning initiative operates from three bases: Caerleon, Tredegar and Pontypool with the course modules being delivered in over 30 separate community venues in the County Borough areas of Newport, Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Torfaen and Monmouthshire.  Details of the individual modules offered in each area can be found in the timetables on our Current Courses pages.

The level of study is first year degree level (or Level 4).  Many of our students will have had little or no experience of education at this level and in recognition of this we offer a high level of study skills support.   We have a strong track record of supporting people who have no prior experience of education at this level.  Past students  have gone on to gain degrees, post-graduate qualifications, further their careers and employment opportunities.  Student Mentors are past and current students who offer additional support and guidance for new students.

You do not need to have any previous qualifications to enrol on our courses.  Each class is made up of new learners and those who have previously completed other modules.

Courses are typically delivered over a twelve week period in line with school term times and most of the classes run in school time.  However, modules delivered through our work-based learning initiative are sometimes delivered during twilight and evening sessions. 

Many of our classes also provide free childcare for parents of pre-school age children.

When you enrol on one of our courses you will become part-time students of the University of Wales, Newport and will be given access to My Learning Essentials (or mLE)  the University’s virtual learning environment providing opportunities for you to access study resources and allowing you to communicate with other students.   You will also be issued with a student identification card gives you access to the University Library Services and serves to get you discounts in many high street stores.

Kirsten Merrill-Glover
Head of Community Learning