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Access to Culture, Media and Sport

Campus Sighthill Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 4

Study mode Full time

Start date Jan 2026

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Course overview

You will gain practical skills in digital media editing and project work, explore Scotland’s rich cultural heritage through classroom learning and site visits, and engage in physical activities that promote mental health and wellbeing.

Through units such as Creative Digital Media Editing, Cultural Visits, and Sporting Activities, you will develop confidence, creativity, and resilience in a supportive environment, with assessments focused on experiential learning, personal development, and holistic reflection rather than traditional exams.

How the course is assessed

  • Assessment designed to reflect the hands-on, immersive nature of the learning experience. Rather than relying on traditional exams or written tests, students are assessed through practical engagementcreative outputs, and reflective practice across the three core strands of media, culture, and sport.
  • Throughout the 18-week programme, you will participate in experiential activities—from digital media editing and project work to cultural visits and physical challenges—that form the basis of your assessment.
  • These activities are not only designed to build technical and interpersonal skills but also to encourage self-expressioncollaboration, and personal growth.
  • Assessment is holistic, meaning you are evaluated on your overall development, participation, and ability to apply learning in real-world contexts. Tutors use a combination of observationsportfolio workpeer feedback, and self-assessment to capture progress. This approach ensures that all individuals, regardless of background or ability, can showcase their strengths in a supportive and inclusive environment.
  • By focusing on process over product, the course empowers students to take ownership of their learning journey, fostering confidence and readiness for further education or employment.

Number of days per week

  • 3 days per week. 

Entry requirements

  • Demonstrate an ability to work at SCQF Level 3 / National 3 / Access 3. This means students should be able to follow instructions, contribute to group activities, and engage with practical tasks independently or with minimal support.
  • No formal qualifications are required, but a positive attitude, willingness to participate, and interest in media, culture, or sport are essential for success on this experiential and inclusive programme.

English Proficiency Requirements

You should be able to work at SCQF Level 3, which typically aligns with an IELTS score range of 4.0 to 4.5.This level indicates basic competence in reading, writing, listening, and speaking English—enough to follow instructions, participate in group activities, and engage with practical tasks.

Progression and Articulation Routes

After completing Access to Culture, Media and Sport, students can progress to SCQF Level 4 or 5 courses at Edinburgh College, such as: 

  • Media and Creative Industries: NC Media, Digital Media Production, Photography, Sound Production 
  • Sport and Fitness: NC Sport and Fitness, Exercise and Fitness Leadership 
  • Routes into Education or Employment: Kings Trust, Routes into Employment, Project Search 

Career options

Beyond college, options include: 

  • Modern Apprenticeships 
  • Entry-level jobs in media, sport, or leisure 
  • Volunteering and community projects 
  • Further study at other institutions 

Study Options

Campus Study mode Start date
Sighthill Campus Full time 19/01/26

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