Anyone know how to go about taking a GCSE as an adult?

[ALittleCrisp]

I really want to be a Midwife, but I cannot get onto a Midwifery course unless I have GCSE Maths, English and ideally (most unis want the three subjects), Science at Grade C or above.

Does anyone know how I can do this as an adult? Google is giving me all sorts of unclear answers so a point in the right direction would be fabulous

In addition to this, does anyone have any idea of the cost?

Thank you

Penguin It would be a London university. In order for me to become a Midwife, we would need to move closer to my family due to childcare (Midwife placements are random and you need drop of the hat, 24/7 childcare available).

I can take the access course alongside the GCSEs but I preferred to take them separately as an Access course and 3 GCSE subjects seems too much, especially with a small child.

Unfortunately you do need Science because most universities ask for it in addition to the access course. The loan is indeed written off once you go to university (or do anything with a degree). I'm not sure about it being completely funded for 19-23 year olds, where I am it's only cheaper (half price). The loan would be repayable if you don't go to uni but earn 21K or more.

Thank you it's an exciting but daunting time! I know I'm asking so much of family, husband, even my son...

I just feel like I've got to do this. I cannot rest, it's what I want to do

Exciting news! One of the local colleges offers a Maths GCSE course. They say theirs started on the 14th but they have 12 spaces left!

It's worth looking at the entry requirements for specific unis - they don't typically require a science GCSE if you've done an Access course - GCSEs are level 2 qualifications and the Access to Nursing and Midwifery course covers the science you need and is at level 3 i.e. a higher level. It's worth speaking to admissions departments so you make sure you get exactly what you need to get a place.

It's definitely worth getting your English and Maths sorted first - Access is the equivalent of doing 3 A Levels in a year so is a big time commitment - particularly if you're juggling a child/other commitments too. It'll be worth it in the end though!

Definitely speak to the universities directly. A friend got into Nottingham via an access course and functional skills taken as part of the course. They do make exceptions for mature students.

That's wonderful news about the maths GCSE, have you booked on? I was going to suggest trying a few different adult ed centres as they will have different rules/entry requirements.

I also want to get maths GCSE as I was home educated by a mum who never taught me at all and my maths are at age 9. I so want to progress in this area so I understand the desire to better yourself and get it sorted. The best of luck to you.

Rhubarb Thank you! No I haven't booked on. You have to ring so I'll do it tomorrow. They don't seem fussed about who goes on the course, by the looks of things fingers crossed that's true

I should never have been predicted a high grade in maths at school. I was always so pants at it! English, History and Biology were my biggest loves.

I hope you can develop some more in the areas you want it's tough sometimes, not having everything set out from the word go

Local college.
I did my GCSEs. At the grand old age of 37.