Employers are often interested in candidates who can demonstrate an understanding of the importance of interacting appropriately with customers, clients and colleagues. Studying this course will provide an in-depth understanding of the key areas associated with giving effective IAG. Knowledge and skills learnt will include signposting, referrals, record keeping, confidentiality and communication/listening techniques.

Course Content:

Unit 1: Information, advice or guidance in practice

Learn about the various differences between information, advice and guidance and the requirements of different clients and how these are best met. It will also help gain in-depth knowledge of the boundaries and responsibilities present when offering information, advice and guidance, including signposting, referrals and record keeping.

Unit 2: Developing interaction skills for information, advice or guidance

Discover how to interact with clients, executing appropriate and effective questioning techniques, listening skills and non-verbal communication. Gain knowledge of the impact of values, beliefs and attitudes on any interactions that may be encountered, as well as the importance of confidentiality and impartiality.

Unit 3: Signposting and referral in information, advice or guidance

Gain an understanding of the difference between signposting and referrals – when it is appropriate to refer or signpost an individual organisation’s procedures. Employees will also gain knowledge of good practice when signposting and referring, including recording, monitoring and evaluating.

Unit 4: Information, advice or guidance in context

Gain an understanding of information, advice or guidance in the context of their own practice and a specific group of clients. Exploring different ways of assisting clients to explore and make choices. Knowledge on discriminatory practices and behaviours affecting specific client groups, as well as potential barriers and how to overcome them, are explored within this unit.

Unit 5: Skills for advice providers

This unit provides an understanding of the purpose and process of an advice interview, examining the relationship between client and advisor, the advisor’s role, stages of the advice interview and how to ensure client confidentiality. A key part of this section is gaining knowledge of social policy in advice work, negotiating effectively on a client’s behalf and support and action planning.

Distance Online Learning

Our distance learning courses are a new way for you to learn online. Choose from a wide range of subjects and improve your employability skills or develop your personal skills and professional knowledge.

This flexible learning method is personally tailored to support you to work on your individual skills gaps, using a combination of online learning and tutorials, with a fully qualified tutor. You will complete an online workbook, submit short assignments and get feedback from your tutor as you progress.

Do I need any qualifications to start this course?

No, you do not need any previous qualifications to be accepted onto the course. However we will ask you to complete a short English and maths assessment before the course starts. This is so we can be sure that the course is at the right level for you and we can support you to achieve your qualification. If you would like further information on maths and English courses with Buckinghamshire Adult Learning please see here where you can register to receive further information and advice.

How much does the course cost?

All learners will be funded. You must be at least 19 years old at 1/8/2023 and meet UK/EU residency requirements.

When does the course start?

Induction sessions are set up throughout the year. Register with us ASAP so we can give you more information.

How long is the course and how long will it take me to complete it?

You need to plan your learning to complete the work within 12 weeks. There will be a charge of £100 for those who don’t complete their course to cover learning materials and registration.

You will complete an online workbook which includes short assignments that you must submit to your tutor every two weeks.  Your tutor will mark your work and give feedback online so that you know how much progress you are making.

What support will I get during my course?

You will work independently at your own pace to meet the deadlines set by your tutor. It is important that you meet the deadlines for assignments so that you complete the course within 12 weeks.

Your tutor is available to offer support by telephone, email or video calls as appropriate, so please don’t hesitate to contact us if you would like to have a chat about anything you are finding difficult.

How will my work be assessed?

Your tutor will mark your assignments and tell you if you have passed each section of the workbook or whether you need to revisit any questions. As part of our quality management process, at the end of your course your tutor’s assessments are moderated by another assessor and you will be informed if you have passed your qualification or whether you need to re-do any work. There are no exams.

What qualification will I achieve?

Courses are available at Level 1 or Level 2 and are accredited by NCFE, a nationally recognised Awarding body, who will issue the certificate to you.

How do I join?

To apply for a place, please complete this short form

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