Farr High School

Our Senior Phase courses give you access to a wide range of subjects, helping you build skills, confidence, and employability while still at school. With a mix of on-campus and online learning, taught by industry-experienced lecturers, you’ll experience college and university learning and get a head start on your future.

Want to know what studying through Senior Phase is really like? Read our student stories.

Applications for senior phase courses are now closed and will reopen in January 2027.

If you have any questions about our courses, our Schools Team is here to help.

Explore our courses

Face-to-face: Delivered in college or school

Supported Learning SCQF 1 - 2

Duration: One academic year
Where: UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso or Fort William
When: Various - to be discussed with Supported Learning team

Our Supported Learning programme provides a supportive, general introduction to continued education. The course is for those who may need support to build their skills and confidence to become a more independent learner within a college environment. The course might suit you if you have experienced challenges or barriers to learning or if you have received additional support with your education (or feel a more supported environment in college would benefit you).

Course content

You will participate in:

Relevant projects your lecturer has chosen to study this academic year
Developing personal and inter-personal skills
Saltire award opportunities&
Community visits

Entry requirements

Pupils are expected to be able to learn and engage within a group environment.

What next

Direct enrolment onto our Supported Learning course

APPLY

NPA Construction Craft and Technician SCQF 4

Duration: One academic year
Where and when:
- Invergordon Academy, Friday 8.45am - 12.25pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Stornoway campus, Tuesday 10.45am - 1.15pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso campus, Friday 9.45am - 2.15pm

This group award aims to offer learners the opportunity to develop a range of skills and knowledge in relation to the Construction Industry. Through completion of this award, learners will develop core skills, which will enhance their employability prospects.

The group award will give learners the technical knowledge, skills and understanding associated with a range of craft and technician skills in construction at this level.

This course is preparing students for progression onto further study and employment.

Throughout the course, you will study: Construction units at SCQF Level 4, with a wide range of units brickwork, joinery, painting & decorating and most importantly, employability skills.

Course content

Throughout the course, you will study: Construction units at SCQF Level 4, with a wide range of units Brickwork, Joinery, Painting and Decorating and most importantly, employability skills.

Brickwork – Lay bricks and blocks to line
Carpentry & Joinery - Install second fixing components.
Painting & Decorating - Apply paint systems by brush and roller
Personal Development
Understanding Industry
To achieve this award, you will be required to undertake both Practical & Theory elements for each unit, overall, the award is split: Practical 60%  and Theory 40% .

Entry requirements

Pupils will need to have achieved or be working towards a minimum National 4 in Maths and English. 

A technical subject would be advantageous, and an interest in the subject area would also be required to be demonstrated during the application.

What next

National Progression Award in Construction Skills (National 5)
Modern Apprenticeships in Construction areas
Further study, employment and/or training in Construction
Relevant programmes in further education

APPLY

SfW Early Education and Childcare SCQF 4

Duration: One academic year
Where and when:
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Alness campus, Friday 9.45am - 2.15pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Fort William campus, Wednesday 9.00am - 3.30pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso campus, Friday 9.45am - 2.15pm

National 4 Skills for Work: Early Learning and Childcare is an introductory qualification that will help learners to understand some of the demands and responsibilities of working in the early learning and childcare sector.

At National 4, learners cover basic topics in each area and begin to develop relevant skills such as teamwork skills and helping to plan play experiences.

Course content

You will study the following units:

Child Development
Play in Early Learning and Childcare
Working in Early Learning and Childcare
One relevant optional unit

Entry requirements

You must be working towards National 4 level, demonstrate a keen interest in working within the childcare industry and have a satisfactory reference.

What next

On completion, you can apply for the National 5 Early Learning and Childcare Programme.

APPLY

SfW Engineering Skills SCQF 4

Duration: One academic year
Where and when:
- Invergordon Academy, Friday, 8.45am - 12.25pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso campus, 9.45am - 2.15pm - This course is now full for applications.

This course comprises of four units. The content of the course focuses on the development of basic hand skills across the disciplines of mechanical, electrical/electronic, fabrication and manufacture and assembly. Central to the content are the generic employability skills valued by employers in an engineering sector. These skills are developed in each of the four units and are assessed at least twice during the course. These add value to the development of the specific vocational skills.

Course content

You will study the following units:

Engineering Skills: Mechanical (National 4)
Learners are required to select the correct tools and materials required to safely manufacture an artefact. During the manufacture, learners will read simple engineering drawings, measure and mark, select appropriate materials and work to specified tolerances.
Engineering Skills: Electrical/Electronic (National 4)
In this unit learners will select the correct tools and components required to construct a basic functional extra low voltage electrical/electronic circuit from a given diagram and specification.
Engineering Skills: Fabrication (National 4)
In this unit learners will select the correct tools, materials and equipment required to manufacture an artefact using cutting, hot and cold forming and mechanical and thermal joining techniques.
Engineering Skills: Manufacture and Assembly (National 4)
Learners will select and safely use the correct tools and materials to manufacture, assemble and complete functionality tests on an artefact. Learners will evaluate and report their findings on the manufacture, assembly and functionality tests of the artefact.

Entry requirements

Pupils will need to have achieved or be working towards minimum National 4 in Maths and English.
A technical subject would be advantageous and an interest in the subject area would also be required to be demonstrated during the application.

What next

Scottish Progression Award in Engineering Skills (National 5) 
SVQs and Modern Apprenticeships in Engineering areas 
Training/employment

APPLY

Horse Care Units SCQF 4 - 6

Duration: One academic year
Locations
- Benbecula - Thursday 1300 - 1500
- Castle View Stables - Friday 0900 - 1200
- Gairloch - Friday 0930 - 1230
- North Ballachulish - Friday 1000 - 1200

This course is designed for school pupils who enjoy working with horses and want to develop practical horse care skills alongside their school studies.

You will take part in hands on sessions at an approved equestrian centre, where you will learn about the day-to-day care of horses and how to work safely and responsibly around them. The course covers a range of horse care activities, allowing you to build skills at a level that matches your experience and ability.

This course forms part of the wider NC Horse Care qualification and gives you a realistic introduction to horse care in a working equestrian environment.

Course content

Units studied will depend on your experience, progress and the facilities available at your chosen location, but you may cover a range of topics including:

Horse identification and handling a quiet horse safely
Assist with grooming a quiet horse
Tack and tacking up
Stable routine
Horse health
Watering and feeding
Tacking up for ridden competition work
Horse care: lunging
Horse care: trimming, turnout and clipping

Entry requirements

You must demonstrate a keen interest in equestrian studies and have a satisfactory reference.

What next

This course can support progression to further study in horse care or equestrian subjects, including full-time or flexible study programmes offered by UHI. It can also help you build experience and confidence if you are considering future training, apprenticeships or work in the equine sector, depending on your wider qualifications and experience.

APPLY

Hair and Beauty Units SCQF 4

Duration: One academic year
Where: UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso
When: Friday 0945 - 1415

This course will give you an overview of the exciting Hair and Beauty industry, providing you with the basic knowledge and skills to help you progress on to further study. We recommend that all students commence at this level, regardless of academic ability.

Course content

Throughout the course, you will study:

Working in a Salon
Employability skills
Salon Awareness,
Health and Safety
Product Awareness,
Prepare and Assist in a workplace environment
Beauty Practical Skills

Entry requirements

You should be working at or towards SCQF Level 4 and have a genuine interest in hair and beauty. You’ll need a positive school reference and an eagerness to develop practical skills.

What next

This course can support progression to further study in Hairdressing or Beauty Therapy, either as a Senior Phase pupil or through full-time study at college.

NPA Professional Cookery SCQF 4

Duration: One academic year
Where and when:
UHI North, West and Hebrides, Fort William
- Wednesday 0900 - 1530
UHI North, West and Hebrides, Stornoway
- S4: Tuesday 0900 - 1030, Wednesday 1400 - 1535
- S5/6: Monday 0940 - 1135, Tuesday 1355 - 1535, Wednesday 1045 - 1225
UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso
- Friday 0945 - 1415

If you enjoy cooking and want to learn more, then this course will build on your cooking skills but with new and more challenging techniques and recipes.

You will widen your knowledge of ingredients, both fresh and dry, and investigate the importance of dietary requirements, the seasonality of fresh food, healthy eating and food hygiene and the roles they play in commercial kitchens.

Course content

You will study units that introduce key skills and knowledge used in professional kitchens, including:

Cookery Processes
Food Hygiene
Food Preparation Techniques
Craft Baking
Organisation of Practical Skills

Students on this course are required to have PPE. PPE will be provided for school pupils. Home-educated young people are responsible for supplying their own PPE. This course required the following PPE includes:

Butchers apron
Skull cap

Entry requirements

You should be working at or towards SCQF level 4 and be able to demonstrate an interest in cooking and working in a kitchen environment.

What next

This course provides a strong foundation for further study in professional cookery or hospitality.

SfW Rural Skills SCQF 4

Duration: One academic year
Where:
- Kingussie High School
- UHI NWH Rural Studies Centre Halkirk
- UHI NWH Stornoway
When:
- Halkirk - Friday 0945 - 1415
- Kingussie - Thursday 1030 - 1530
- Stornoway - Thursday 1000 - 1215

This course is designed for school pupils who are interested in rural and land-based industries or working with animals. It offers a practical introduction to a range of activities linked to countryside, estate and animal care, while also helping you develop employability skills for future work or study.

You will take part in hands-on learning and explore different areas of the land-based sector, making this course a good starting point if you are considering progression into areas such as rural studies, equestrian work, animal care or related subjects.

Course content

You will study a range of practical topics linked to rural and land-based work, including:

Estate Maintenance - learn basic skills used to look after rural estates and outdoor environments, including safe working practices and use of tools.
Land-based Industries - explore the wide range of jobs and industries within the rural sector, helping you understand different career routes linked to land use and animal care.
Employability Skills for Land-based Industries - develop skills such as teamwork, time-keeping, communication and problem-solving through practical tasks and activities.

Depending on availability, you may also study areas such as:

Animal Husbandry - learn how to care for animals and support their health and wellbeing in a work setting.
Animal Handling - develop basic skills for handling animals safely and responsibly.
Crop Production or Soft Landscaping - gain an introduction to plant production or landscaping tasks commonly found in rural and land-based work.

Entry requirements

You should be working at or towards National 4, demonstrate an interest in working within the rural skills sector (land based or an interest in working with animals) and have a satisfactory reference.

What next

This course can help you explore whether a future in the land-based or animal-related sector is right for you. On completion, you may choose to progress to further study in areas such as rural skills, equestrian studies, animal care or other land-based subjects at school or college, depending on your interests and entry requirements. The skills and experience gained on this course can also support progression into other vocational or practical learning pathways.

APPLY

NPA Construction Skills SCQF 5

Duration: One academic year
Where and when:
- Dornoch Academy, Tuesday, 9.00am - 1.00pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Stornoway campus, Tuesday 9.00am - 10.35am and Wednesday, 2.00pm - 3.35pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso campus, Friday 9.45am - 2.15pm - This course is now full for applications.

This course comprises four units. The content of the course focuses on the development of basic hand skills across the disciplines of Brickwork, Bench Joinery Skills and Decorative Painting.

Central to the content are the generic employability skills valued by employers in the construction sector. These skills are developed in each of the three units and are assessed at least twice during the course.

Course content

One Brick Walling – Learners will select and use the correct tools, equipment, and materials required to manufacture an artefact. During the manufacture, learners will read simple construction drawings, measure, and mark, select appropriate materials, and work to specified tolerances. The learner will also develop and use basic construction skills of building different types of brick walls, laying mortar beds, and pointing joints.
Bench Joinery - Learners will select and use the correct tools, equipment, and materials required to manufacture an artefact. During the manufacture, learners will read simple construction drawings, measure, and mark, select appropriate materials, and work to specified tolerances. The learner will also develop and use basic construction skills of manufacturing a range of different woodworking joints, manufacturing a frame, and drawing a setting out rod.
Decorative Painting - Learners will select and use the correct tools, equipment, and materials required to manufacture an artefact. During the unit candidates will follow instruction on how to complete different types of painting techniques, measure, and mark, select appropriate materials, and work to specified tolerances. The learner will also develop and use basic construction skills of different types materials, and how to store and clean correctly.
Efficient Construction Practices – During this unit, learners will learn how to work efficiently within the construction trades, this unit's evidence is gathered through the three practical units. 
To achieve this award, you will be required to undertake both practical & theory elements for each unit, overall, the award is split: 75% practical and 25% theory.

Entry requirements

Entry is at the discretion of the centre and while no formal entry qualifications are required, it would be beneficial if learners embarking on the course demonstrated:

An interest in construction
An ability to work in numeracy and literacy at SCQF level 4
Some aptitude for graphical forms of communication
Completed a woodworking subject or National 4 Construction Skills for Work

What next

This course or its components may provide progression to:

Relevant programmes in further education colleges
Modern Apprenticeships in Construction areas
Further study, employment and/or training in Construction

APPLY

SfW Early Education and Childcare SCQF 5

Duration: One academic year
Where and when:
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Alness campus, Friday 9.45am - 2.15pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Fort William campus, Wednesday 9.00am - 3.30pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Stornoway campus, Tuesday, 9.00am - 10.35am and Wednesday, 2.00pm - 3.35pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso campus, Friday 9.45am - 2.15pm

National 5 Skills for Work: Early Learning and Childcare is an introductory qualification that will help learners to understand some of the demands and responsibilities of working in the early learning and childcare sector.

Course content

You will study the following units:

Development and wellbeing of children and young people
Play in early learning and childcare
Working in early learning and childcare
One optional unit

Entry requirements

You must have obtained a National 4 pass in a literary subject and demonstrate a keen interest in working in a childcare setting and a satisfactory reference. You may also have completed the National 4 Early Learning and Childcare Award.

What next

On attainment, you can progress onto the full time National Qualification Children and Young People or study further school link subjects at Higher Level at UHI North, West and Hebrides.

APPLY

SfW Engineering Skills SCQF 5

Duration: One academic year
Where and when:
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso campus, Friday - 9.45am - 2.15pm
- Golspie High School, Monday, 9.40am - 1.15pm

This course comprises four units. The content of the course focuses on the development of basic hand skills across the disciplines of mechanical, fabrication, electrical, electronic, maintenance, and manufacture. Central to the content are the generic employability skills valued by employers in an engineering sector. These skills are developed in each of the four units and are assessed at least twice during the course.

Course content

You will study the following units:

Engineering Skills: Mechanical and Fabrication (National 5)
During the manufacture, learners will read simple engineering drawings, measure and mark, select appropriate materials, and work to specified tolerances. The learner will also develop and use basic engineering skills of cutting, shaping, drilling, tapping, forming, and joining.
Engineering Skills: Electrical and Electronic (National 5)
Learners will select the correct tools and components required to construct a basic functional extra low voltage electrical circuit and an electronic circuit from a given diagram and specification. The unit is suitable for learners with no previous electrical, electronic, or employment experience.
Engineering Skills: Maintenance (National 5)
Learners will select the correct tools, materials and equipment required to test, disassemble, repair, and assemble an engineering part.
Engineering Skills: Design and Manufacture (National 5)
Learners will develop Computer Aided Draughting skills. They will select and use the correct tools and materials required to design, manufacture/construct, test, evaluate, and report their findings on the manufacture/construction of a project.

Entry requirements

Entry is at the discretion of the centre but, while no formal entry qualifications are required, it would be beneficial if learners embarking on the course were:  

Candidates to be studying National 5’s in Maths, English and a technical or science subject.  
Completion of National 4 Engineering Skills would be advantageous.  
Good application highlighting their interest in the Engineering sector.

What next

This course or its units may provide progression to SVQs and Modern Apprenticeships in Engineering areas, relevant programmes in further education and suitable training/employment.

APPLY

Hair and Beauty Units SCQF 5

Duration: One academic year
Where: UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso
When: Friday 0945 - 1415

During this course, you will explore the hair and beauty industry, developing a range of practical skills and techniques. It will prepare you for a real working environment and provide a strong foundation to progress onto an SVQ in Hairdressing or Beauty Therapy.

You will learn hairdressing skills such as shampooing and conditioning, colouring, blow-drying, and creating a creative trend style. In beauty, you’ll cover practical skills and makeup techniques, gain experience in working with customers and colleagues, and explore career opportunities within the industry.

Course content

Throughout the course, you will study:

Creativity
Salon Skills
Introduction to colouring
Working with customers & Colleagues
Career Options & Choices
Day Make-up & Basic Corrective Makeup

Entry requirements

Pupils should have achieved the Hair and Beauty Units at SCQF Level 4 before applying for this course. You must also have a positive school reference and a genuine interest in the hair and beauty industry.

Please note, you must be 16 years old to complete the practical element of colouring.

What next

This course can support progression to further study in Hairdressing or Beauty Therapy, through full-time study at college.

NPA Professional Cookery SCQF 5

Duration: One academic year

Where:

UHI North, West and Hebrides, Stornoway
- S3: Tuesday 1050 - 1300
- S4: Tuesday 0900 - 1030, Wednesday 1400 - 1535
- S5/6: Monday 0940 - 1135, Tuesday 1355 - 1535, Wednesday 1045 - 1225
UHI North, West and Hebrides, Thurso
- Friday 0945 - 1415

If you enjoy cooking and want to continue developing your skills, this course allows you to build confidence and consistency in professional cookery through practical learning.

You will develop a wider understanding of ingredients and food preparation methods, while exploring how professional kitchens operate. The course also introduces you to key considerations such as food hygiene, dietary needs and the role of organisation and teamwork in a working kitchen.

This course is designed to help you strengthen your practical skills and understanding of cookery in a professional context, while supporting progression to further study or training in hospitality and professional cookery.

Course content

You will study units that introduce key skills and knowledge used in professional kitchens, including:

Cookery Processes
Food Hygiene
Food Preparation Techniques
Craft Baking
Organisation of Practical Skills

Butchers apron
Skull cap

Entry requirements

You should normally have achieved NPA Professional Cookery at SCQF level 4, or be working towards it, and be ready to study at SCQF level 5. You should also be able to demonstrate an interest in professional cookery.

What next

This course provides a strong foundation for further study in professional cookery or hospitality. It can also help prepare you for entry-level training or further development within the hospitality sector, depending on your wider qualifications and experience.

APPLY

HNC Equine Studies Units SCQF 7

Duration: One academic year
- Where: Gairloch, Friday 0930 - 1230
- Where: Castle View Stables, Wick, Friday 0900 - 1200

This provides an introduction to the equine industry and gives students the opportunity to explore the different types of equine businesses, learn about horse care and management, and develop skills in observation and assessment of horses. It is designed to give a solid foundation for those interested in progressing onto the BA (Hons) Equine Business Management degree or other equine-related study.

Course content

This module covers the scope and scale of the equine industry, looking at a variety of equine businesses. In addition, students will be given a project horse and will present their findings on the horse and what disciplines it may be suitable for. Areas covered during the module are:

Breeds of horses
Conformation
Tack and equipment
Equid requirements over a variety of Disciplines
General Industry requirements
Specific requirements and knowledge for stud and competition yards

Entry requirements

3 Highers at grade C or above (or equivalent).

What next

After completing this course, students can progress onto the first year of the BA (Hons) Equine Business Management degree programme. It also provides a foundation for other further education courses or apprenticeships in the equine industry, giving an understanding of horse care, management, and industry practices that can support a range of career paths.

APPLY

Foundation Apprenticeships

Online: National 4 & SCQF 4 courses

Online: National 5 & SCQF 5 courses

NPA Maritime Studies SCQF 5

Duration: One academic year
Where: Online (e-Sgoil)
When: Monday 9.40 am - 11.35 am; Wednesday 10.45 am - 12.25 pm and Friday 11.35 am - 1.15 pm

This course gives you the chance to explore the maritime industry through a practical and vocational programme alongside your school studies. It is designed for pupils who want to learn more about life and work at sea, and to help you decide whether the maritime sector could be a future career or progression route.

You will learn about the maritime environment, how vessels operate, and the roles and responsibilities involved in working safely at sea. The course gives a realistic introduction to the industry and the types of skills and knowledge it involves.

This course helps you explore maritime studies and make informed decisions about future study or work.

Course content

You will develop knowledge and understanding of the maritime industry and the nautical environment, alongside an introduction to key maritime skills.

Mandatory units focus on core areas of maritime study, including basic navigational watchkeeping, an overview of the maritime sector, and the principles behind vessel construction and stability. You will also explore ropework, anchoring and mooring, helping you understand how these skills are used on board vessels.

An optional unit allows you to develop more specialised knowledge, with a focus on health and safety and the procedures involved in securing a vessel for safe passage.

Entry requirements

You should be able to work at SCQF level 5. Applicants should have an interest in the subject and be committed to completing the course.

What next

This course can support progression to further study or training in maritime-related subjects, including locally delivered further education programmes. It may also help prepare you for entry-level opportunities or apprenticeships within the maritime or aquaculture sectors, depending on your wider qualifications and experience.

APPLY

Online: Highers & SCQF 6 courses

Online: Degree modules & SCQF 7 courses

Online Courses with UHI Inverness

If you have any questions regarding the online courses in this section, please email: schools.ic@uhi.ac.uk