Introduction

This book considers the courses that were designed for those students who do not have the typical qualifications to enter higher education. Compulsory schooling, for many social, cultural and practical reasons, does not facilitate academic success for a number of people. Thus, another means of learning is needed to provide such people with an opportunity to achieve their personal, educational goals. Originally, the aims of Access courses were to develop students both academically and to some extent emotionally so they could confidently follow their aspirations to undertake either higher study or a professional career. Sometimes this kind of study simply fostered a love of learning in a person as part of them living a fulfilled life.