These bite-sized courses can help you to progress onto higher education programmes – or just offer an opportunity to explore a new subject and meet like-minded people.
These bite-sized courses can help you to progress onto higher education programmes – or just offer an opportunity to explore a new subject and meet like-minded people.
You can sign up for:
You can sign up for:
Our short courses are open to any adult learner (18 years and over), but we give priority to those who:
- live in areas of multiple deprivation
- haven’t signed up for higher education opportunities before
- Free taster courses in a range of subjects, from art and management to psychology
- Free Level 3 accredited courses (10 university credits each), which are equivalent to A-level study
- Free taster courses in a range of subjects, from art and management to psychology
- Free Level 3 accredited courses (10 university credits each), which are equivalent to A-level study
Whichever course you choose, you’ll also get advice and guidance from our team to support you throughout your study.
Whichever course you choose, you’ll also get advice and guidance from our team to support you throughout your study.
- are claiming government benefits (excluding child benefit)
- are on low incomes or facing in-work poverty
- are a full-time unpaid carer or care leaver
- have been referred to us by one of our partner organisations.
We’re a partner in the Reaching Wider programme
Funded by Medr – the Commission for Tertiary Education and Research – Reaching Wider aims to increase higher education participation from under-represented groups by raising educational aspirations and skills, and creating innovative study opportunities and learning pathways to higher education.
For more information, visit reachingwider.ac.uk or email the Cardiff Met Reaching Wider team at reachingwider@cardiffmet.ac.uk
Who are we?
Cardiff Met’s Widening Access team partners with organisations, such as charities, organisations and schools, to bring learning to the local community.
We work together to run free closed courses to help raise aspirations and encourage people who may think higher education isn’t for them to start thinking about the opportunities available to them.
We also offer many free courses to the public throughout the academic year, which we promote via our newsletter and social media. Questions?
Start learning
Visit cardiffmet.ac.uk /study/wideningaccess to view our available courses and sign up.
Sign up for our newsletter
Visit https://gck.fm/muchu or scan the QR code to get monthly updates about our courses.
From taster courses to university study Community to Campus programme
From taster courses to university study
Sign up for a free taster course and you could go on to graduate with a university degree through our Community to Campus programme. You’ll not only gain new skills, but improve your career prospects, build your confidence and meet other learners who share the same interests.
Widening Access taster courses
Ready to try something new? Sign up for a free taster course where you can explore a range of subjects – like creative writing, psychology or sewing – in a friendly, relaxed learning environment. Each course is held for two hours a week for five weeks, either in your local community or at our on-campus Summer School.
If you want to take your learning further, depending on which subject you’re interested in, you can then sign up for one of our accredited courses.
Widening Access accredited courses (Level 3; 10 university credits)
These courses, delivered in your community, help to build your confidence, skills and knowledge in your chosen subject area. They’re free and typically delivered two hours a week for 10 weeks.
As part of your course, you will also complete an assessment, which will help you become more familiar with the demands of higher education.
You’ll need a minimum GCSE English at grade C, or equivalent, to attend. Don’t have this qualification? We can advise of acceptable alternatives.
Cardiff Met foundation year
After completing our accredited courses, depending on the subject, you can then progress on to a Cardiff Met foundation year. Run on campus, these year-long courses boost your knowledge, study skills and confidence, preparing you to pursue a Cardiff Met undergraduate degree. These courses have specific entry requirements and tuition fees. Find out more on our website
Cardiff Met undergraduate degree
Deepen your knowledge, skills and level of experience even further by studying an undergraduate degree at Cardiff Met. Typically lasting three-years, these degrees are run on campus, where you’ll be immersed in our close-knit learning community – as well as receive academic and wellbeing support to help you thrive in your chosen area of study.
And as for your career after graduation? We offer a range of services to help prepare you for the world of work, which has resulted in us being ranked the best university in Wales for employability (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).
Looking to improve your English?
Whatever your ambitions, you can strengthen your reading, writing and listening skills with our free short courses, Preparing for Academic IELTS and Advanced English.
94% said they learned new skills* said the courses helped their careers* What learners say about our Widening Access courses
said they grew more confident*
*Learner feedback 2023/24 92% 95%
courses
English and creative writing
Taster courses
Get Creative Writing!
Begin your journey into the exciting realm of creative writing with this introductory short course. You’ll delve into the art of storytelling by analysing published works, exploring what captivates us and dissecting the techniques that make stories come alive.
By learning to read like a writer, extracting insights from literature, you will build and enhance your writing skills. You’ll then dive deep into the fundamental elements of creative writing, like character, setting, conflict and dialogue.
Lastly, using the knowledge you’ve gained, you will create your own flash fiction, with guidance from our experienced tutor on drafting and editing, and advice about where to get published.
More English and creative writing taster courses
- Short and Sweet: Writing Short Stories
- Your Life in a Book
- Writing Sci-Fi and Fantasy
98%
*Learner feedback 2023/24 of learners who attended these short courses said the course “made a difference”*
Early years education and childhood studies
Accredited courses
Children & Childhood in the Early Years (Accredited module - Level 3, 10 University credits)
This Level 3 course will examine the role of play in early childhood and the role of parents/carers in the education and development of children. It will look at the main issues, theories and aspects related to working with parents/carers. It explores the concept of family, diversity and the role of the media and the influence of a wider society. This course is intended to offer students who do well and pass the assessments a pathway to progress to the BA (Hons) Early Years Education and Professional Practice with Early Years Practitioner Status (EYPS) programme.
Your progression pathway
Understanding Children’s Mental Health and Wellbeing taster course
Children and Childhood in the Early Years accredited course (Level 3 module; 10 university credits)
Undergraduate degree course in the Cardiff School of Education & Social Policy: BA (Hons) Early Years Education and Professional Practice with Early Years Practitioner Status (EYPS)
Health and social care
Your progression pathway
Introduction to Health and Social Care taster course
Communities and Health accredited course (Level 3 module; 10 university credits)
Foundation leading to BA/BSc Social Sciences
Undergraduate degree courses in the Cardiff School of Sport & Health Sciences, including HND/BSc (Hons) Health & Social Care, and more
Sociology, social policy and criminology
Accredited courses
Sociology (Accredited module - Level 3, 10 University credits)
Sociology is the study of how society influences us and how we influence the world around us. This course will guide you through understanding important issues in society using a sociological lens. You'll learn the basics of sociology and see everyday life in new ways. We’ll explore key sociological theories and ideas, helping you understand how people interact, form groups, and shape communities. You’ll develop ability to think critically about the world and your role within it. Upon successful completion, you may have the opportunity to progress to the Foundation programme leading to BA/BSc Social Sciences at Cardiff Met.
“Really grateful for the chance to engage in such a rewarding and enjoyable course.”
*Learner feedback 2023/24
Your progression pathway
Introduction to Sociology taster course Crime and Social Justice taster course
Introduction to Sociology accredited course (Level 3 module; 10 university credits)
Foundation degree leading to BA/BSc Social Sciences
Undergraduate degree courses in Cardiff School of Education & Social Policy, including BSc (Hons) Sociology and Social Policy, BSc (Hons) Criminology, and more
Teaching adults
Accredited courses
Teaching Adults
(Accredited module - Level 3, 10 University credits)
This is a 10-credit level 3 accredited course that aims to develop the knowledge and skills for those interested in the rewarding profession of teaching adults. The course explores the roles and responsibilities of adult education tutors, effective teaching and learning methods, and diverse learning styles. It raises awareness of the essential skills needed to be an effective teacher of adults and to motivate students. Students will create a portfolio and deliver a presentation for assessment at the end of the course. The course also provides a progression route to the PCET teaching course.
Learners subject knowledge improved by 26% because of attending the short courses
*Learner feedback 2023/24
Your progression pathway
Access to Teaching: Make Me a Teacher taster course
Teaching Adults accredited course (Level 3 module; 10 university credits)
Preparing to Teach in PCET accredited course (Level 4 module; 10 university credits)
Degree courses in the Cardiff School of Education & Social Policy: PCE or PCET Post Compulsory Education and Training
Youth and community work
Taster courses
Introduction to Youth and Community Work
More people are keen to make a difference in their communities but lack the knowledge about how best to get involved.
This course is ideal for those who care about their community and want to know more about how they can make a difference. It’s also relevant to youth or community workers with little experience of studying in a classroom setting.
Throughout the course, we’ll explore themes such as learning from experience, coping in new surroundings and understanding others.
More youth and community work taster courses
- Introduction to Safeguarding
- Keeping Teenagers Safe
Your progression pathway
Introduction to Safeguarding taster course
Keeping Teenagers Safe taster course
Intro to Youth and Community Work taster course
Introduction to Youth and Community Work accredited course (Level 3 module; 10 university credits)
Foundation Certificate in Youth and Community Work
Undergraduate degree course in the Cardiff School of Education & Social Policy: BA (Hons) Youth and Community Work
Accredited courses
Introduction to Youth and Community Work (Accredited module - Level 3, 10 University credits)
This course helps you to recognise the roles and skills required and apply the principles that underpin youth & community work. You will identify and assess different communities and define the concepts of youth & young people. Learners who pass the assessment on this module will be offered an interview for a place on the Foundation Certificate in Youth and Community work and, depending on experience and qualifications, may be able to progress onto the BA (Hons) Youth and Community Work or PGDip pathways.
Psychology
Taster courses
Introduction to Psychology
In this taster course, you’ll explore central topics in psychology, introducing you to the theory that underpins the subject and how it relates to real-world situations. You’ll explore topics like developmental psychology, social psychology, and sport and exercise psychology, among others. The course will also help you to develop key skills in critical thinking and analysis, and communication and presentation.
courses
Your progression pathway
Introduction to Psychology taster course
Introduction to Psychology accredited course (Level 3 module; 10 university credits)
Foundation leading to BA/BSc Social Sciences
Undergraduate degree courses in the Cardiff School of Sport & Health Sciences, including BSc (Hons) Psychology, BSc (Hons) Environmental Health, and more
Accredited
courses
Introduction to Psychology
(Accredited module - Level 3, 10 University credits)
This course will introduce students to some of the key perspectives in psychology, for example: biological, cognitive, behaviourist and psychodynamic perspective. In addition, it will allow students to develop an understanding of how these perspectives apply to social psychology. This accredited module will explore areas such as the self, social influence, prejudice and discrimination and pro-social and anti-social behaviour. This module also demonstrates how theoretical explanations in the above areas are applied to real world scenarios; it also demonstrates how the discipline links with other modules within the university, such as health and social care, sociology and youth & community work.
courses
Art and design
Taster courses
Introduction to Print Design
This introductory taster course is designed to provide you with a glimpse into the captivating realm of print design, a process used in graphics, textiles, illustration and interior industries.
The course aims to build your confidence in your creative decision-making through various activities in which you’ll be guided to selfselect drawing techniques, colours and themes for your designs. You will leave the course with Riso-printed posters and screen printed tote bags.
Accredited courses
Art & Design Portfolio Practice
(Accredited module - Level 3, 10 University credits)
This brand-new accredited course focuses on building your art and design practice more formally. It will take you on a journey which broadens your research and problem solving skills and strengthens your ability to exploring a theme creatively, whilst building on your existing knowledge of colour, design, and pattern. The course will enable you to showcase your skill, knowledge and ability to others in an enthusiastic and coherent way via the development of a portfolio. Whilst this course focuses on textiles, the theory and skills can be applied to broader creative disciplines. You will also have the opportunity to learn about and use facilities in the Cardiff School of Art & Design. The course is designed to prepare learners for University level study and support progression to a wide range of undergraduate courses on offer in the Cardiff School of Art & Design, dependent on prior experience and qualifications.
Our learners said they enjoyed:
“The calmness – I felt so calm when partaking in this course.”
More art and design taster courses
- Learn to Use a Sewing Machine
- Introduction to Embroidery
- Introduction to Print Design
- Introduction to Graphic Design
- Logo Design and Branding
- Mindful Sketchwalking
- Restart Your Art
- Still Life Drawing
- Painting with Oils and Acrylics
- Creative Writing and Illustration
- Digital Photography
- Creative Journalling
- Mending and Making Garments
Your progression pathway
Art and design taster course (at least one)
Art and Design Portfolio Practice
accredited course (Level 3 module; 10 university credits)
Undergraduate degree courses in Cardiff School of Art & Design, including BA (Hons) Fine Art; BA (Hons) Ceramics; BA (Hons) Fashion Design; BA (Hons) Textiles; BA (Hons) Interior Design; BA (Hons) Photography, and more
courses
Technology
Taster courses
Digital Skills
Would you like to improve your IT skills? In this course, you’ll be guided by our experienced tutor to help strengthen your skills in essential functions on your device and explore vital tools like email and Google apps (Slides, Docs and Sheets). Discover the power of IT with this taster course tailored to anyone looking to enhance their digital skills.
More technology taster courses
- Creative Coding
- Introduction to Robotics 94%
*Learner feedback 2023/24 of our learners rated the content in these taster courses as excellent or good*
courses
Business and finance
Taster courses
Starting Your Own Enterprise
The course will help potential and aspiring entrepreneurs to build their knowledge, confidence and skills so they can start their own social enterprise or micro, small or medium business. It will also help owners or managers to run their current enterprises more effectively.
You’ll be able to demonstrate your own suitability as an entrepreneur and discuss the expectations, motivations and risks involved in setting up your enterprise.
By the end, you’ll also be able to explain the process of setting up an enterprise/business, outlining the financial and human resources needed. We’ll also help you to identify which type of company suits your business idea, how to comply with company laws and regulations, how to access to finance, and learn key areas for marketing, sales and social media.
More business and finance courses
- Islamic Finance
- Developing a Hospitality Side Hustle
Food and hospitality
Taster courses
- Cooking on a Budget
- Introduction to Food Safety
- Introduction to Nutrition
- Developing a Hospitality Side Hustle 95%
*Learner feedback 2023/24 of our learners rated the tutors delivering these taster courses as excellent*
Courses to improve your English language
Preparing for Academic IELTS
Duration: 36 weeks
Delivered by our award-winning tutor, this free course is for those leaners who’d like to attend Cardiff Met and have English as their second language. The course will prepare you for the four assessment components: listening, reading, writing and speaking.
You’ll get personalised feedback, take simulated practice tests and complete targeted exercises that will boost your confidence and English language proficiency. Whether you’re aiming to meet university entry requirements or enhance your language skills, our course is your gateway to success.
Many learners who complete this course progress on to undergraduate degrees at Cardiff Met.
Advanced English
Duration: Eight weeks
This free taster course is for learners who have English as their second language. It’s perfect if you’re curious about your future options and eager to dive into an advanced study of English, especially if you’re considering taking higher education courses. It offers a chance to build your confidence and explore which learning path is right for you –without the pressure of any formal exams.
“I benefited from the revision of basic English, learning different vocabulary for daily life and practicing writing sentences using the phrasal verbs and vocabulary.”
*Learner feedback 2023/24
More courses to build your skills and confidence
Plan Your Future
Looking for a new direction? Need some motivation? Make a fresh start with this taster course that aims to boost your self-esteem, build your confidence and help you plan your future through a series of fun goal-setting exercises. We’ll look at your existing skillset and explore your future options with plenty of practical support and confidence-building exercises designed to motivate you towards achieving your personal and professional goals.
By exploring your expectations, experiences, achievements and aspirations, we’ll give you the tools to make choices that are right for your future direction. You’ll also get career advice and tailored individual coaching signposting you to relevant resources. We can also help you to plan or write a CV, offer interview tips and techniques, improve your communication skills and navigate job sites.
More building your skills and confidence taster courses
- How to Achieve Your Career Goals
- Developing Philosophical Thinking
- Academic Skills
- Research Skills
- Developing Critical Thinking
Summer School
Every June, we run our Summer School, which provides adult learners with the opportunity to attend a variety of free taster courses on our Llandaff campus.
Our biggest event of the year, the Summer School allows you to experience our campuses and facilities, take part in enriching, fun taster courses and get a feel for what life as a university student might be like.
Sign up to our newsletter
Visit https://gck.fm/muchu or scan the QR code to sign up to our newsletter, where you’ll be among the first to hear about our next Summer School:
What our learners say:
“I enjoyed the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, the excellent and accommodating tutor running the course, and meeting others with ideas and tips.”*
*Learner feedback 2023/24
“I
have enjoyed every minute of this course.”
*Learner feedback 2023/24
99%
of learners who attended Summer School said the courses ‘made a difference’*
*Learner feedback 2023/24
99%
of learners who attended our Summer School rated the experience as excellent or good*
*Learner feedback 2023/24
Learner success story
Many of our learners use the Community to Campus programme as a stepping stone to earning a degree and kickstarting a new career.
Harriet is one of them. She began volunteering for Cadwyn Housing Association, because she wanted to give back to society. She was encouraged to enrol on a course that could lead to continued education and employment opportunities in the housing sector.
After completing the Communities and Health accredited course, Harriet completed the Foundation leading to BA/BSc Social Sciences degree and graduated three years later with a housing degree from our Cardiff School of Education & Social Policy.
Harriet’s four-year education journey, from Widening Access course to graduation, was completed alongside being a mum, running a cleaning business and volunteering with Cadwyn.
Harriet has now secured her dream job working with vulnerable people as a manager at a housing association.
“Going back to education has been so rewarding and showed me that learning doesn’t have to end at school. Completing a Widening Access course is a great way of deciding if education is for you. It’s free, so you won’t lose anything but might gain an awful lot from it, as I did. The Widening Access course was the steppingstone that has allowed me to achieve my degree and full-time employment in an industry I love.”
“It was daunting stepping into the lecture theatre for the first time. No one in my family has been to university, so I didn’t have anyone to ask what to expect. But I quickly met lots of like-minded people on the course who were on a similar journey to my own and had returned to education. Seeing other adult learners who were also balancing family life and work was so inspiring and spurred me on.”
“I had brilliant support at Cardiff Met from the lecturers who were so accommodating and understanding of my situation. That made returning to education a positive experience. There’s nothing stopping me now.”
