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Counselling - Level 2 - Certificate in Counselling Skills

Course code: P04803

Subject area: Counselling

Study level: Part Time

Course level:

Course details

Course time:

18:00 - 21:00

Days of week:

Thursday

Course date:

8th Jan 2026 - 2nd Jul 2026

Course location:

Abingdon Campus

Contact details

Email:

enquiries@abingdon-witney.ac.uk

Phone:

01235 555 585

Apply for this course
This course helps to enhance personal or workplace skills, especially for those in customer-focused services, including the caring profession and mental health workers. The Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills is accredited by the NCFE.
Students are introduced to the three main theoretical approaches to counselling: Person-centred, Psychodynamic, and CBT, along with the basics of Transactional Analysis. They will practice core counselling skills, with personal development and peer group work being key components. Learners will deepen their understanding of ethical and diversity issues while identifying appropriate codes of practice for their workplace settings. Level 2 serves as the foundation level entry course into the counselling profession.

The course strengthens students' use of counselling skills in the workplace and prepares them for progression to the Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies. The tutor team consists of practising counsellors who uphold professional standards and encourage the best qualities in students. Peer relationships are developed through group work, an essential part of the training.

This qualification does not lead directly to counselling employment. It is pre-practitioner training for professional counselling qualifications, but it can support professional development or lead to employment in related fields.

During the course, students will study several key units:

Using Counselling Skills

Introduction to Counselling Skills Theories

Diversity and Ethics in the Use of Counselling Skills

Counselling Skills and Personal Development

Students should allocate about three hours per week for homework and independent study in addition to class time. This time may fluctuate around assignment deadlines.

The course has one formal assessment, which involves a portfolio of evidence, including assignments, learning reviews, and feedback from peers and tutors.

This course is validated by the NCFE (Northern Council for Further Education), a reputable awarding body for Level 2 qualifications. For more information, visit www.ncfe.org.uk.

Course units
During the course you will study a range of units:

• Using Counselling Skills

• Introduction to Counselling Skills Theories

• Diversity and Ethics in the Use of Counselling Skills

• Counselling Skills and Personal Development

What next?
This qualification does not lead to counselling employment. It is designed as pre-practitioner training for professional counselling qualifications, but it could also provide professional development or lead to employment for those working in a related field.

Students who successfully complete this course are able to apply for the Level 3 Certificate in Counselling studies (CPCAB accredited) course as the next step towards a full counselling qualification.

Entry criteria
• All students will be expected to attend the "Introduction to College IT systems" 2 hour course to ensure that you have sufficient digital skills to build your online portfolio. The time and date of this is to be confirmed.• A level 2 qualification in English (GCSE Equivalent) at least at grade C/4. A reading and writing activity may be included in the interview process. • Minimum candidate age 19 years old at 31 August preceding the start of the course. • Ability to translate intra-personal experience into language• Able to benefit from self-development and evidence personal insight

If you are concerned about any of these requirements, please contact us for advice. Entry to the course may be subject to completion of an interview.

Fee information
As part of your course we may organise trips to assist you with your learning. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate. Bursaries may also available to cover the cost of some trips.

Your course fee includes candidate registration with the NCFE.

There are bursaries available to help you with other course costs. Call 01235 216 212 for more information.

Funding is available for this course however, there may be a shortfall which you will be required to pay. The rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 555 585 to discuss your options. You can find more information on our Fees and Bursaries page - search "Fees and Bursaries" at the top of the page.

As part of your course we may organise trips to assist you with your learning. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate.

There are bursaries available to help you with other course costs. Call 01235 216 212 for more information.

The rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 216 400 to discuss your options. You can find more information on our Fees and Bursaries page - search "Fees and Bursaries" at the top of the page.

19+ Fee:

£360.00

19+ Reduced Fee:

£0.00

Qualifications received
NCFE Certificate in Counselling Skills Level 2

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