Invergordon Academy
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
NPA Bakery SCQF 4
NPA Bakery SCQF 4
- Duration: One academic year
- Where and when:
- UHI North, West and Hebrides Portree, Wednesday, 10.00am - 2.30pm
- Invergordon Academy, Friday, 8.45am - 12.20pm - Please note the Invergordon Academy course is now full.
This course could be for you if you have a real interest in baking and want to learn more, or if you are considering cooking/baking as a career. This will enhance your existing skills and offer an additional qualification on your CV in a specialised area. You will leave with a portfolio of your work, which can be presented to a potential employer.
Course content
- Bread Making
- Pastry
- Craft Baking
- Cake decoration
- Portfolio creation
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
This course provides a strong foundation for further study full-time in Professional Cookery or Hospitality.
Please note the Invergordon Academy bakery course is now full.
Beauty Skills Units SCQF 4
Beauty Skills Units SCQF 4
- Duration: One academic year
- When and Where:
- Alness Academy - Friday, 09.30am - 1.30pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Fort William - Wednesday, 9.00am - 3.30pm
- UHI North, West and Hebrides, Portree - Wednesday, 10.00am - 2.30pm
This course provides candidates with an introduction to a selection of essential beauty treatment techniques, focusing particularly on facial skin care, make-up, and nail skills. A great way to start your training into the beauty industry and allows progression onto further beauty training on completion of this course.
Course content
- Beauty Skills: An Introduction
- Cosmetology: Make-up Artistry
- Creative Nail Finishes to Hand and Foot
There are no formal entry requirements.
Upon completion, you may wish to progress on to a course in this subject area.
NPA Construction Craft and Technician SCQF 4
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% .
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.
- 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
SfW Early Education and Childcare SCQF 4
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.
SfW Engineering Skills SCQF 4
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.
- 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.
- Scottish Progression Award in Engineering Skills (National 5)
- SVQs and Modern Apprenticeships in Engineering areas
- Training/employment
SVQ Professional Cookery Units SCQF 4
SVQ Professional Cookery Units SCQF 4
- Duration: One academic year
- Where: UHI North, West and Hebrides, Dornoch
- When: Friday 0945 - 1415
This course allows you to achieve units from the SVQ Professional Cookery qualification at SCQF level 4. It focuses on developing basic cookery skills and introducing you to how a professional kitchen operates.
You will take part in hands-on learning in professional kitchens, working with ingredients, equipment and techniques used in the hospitality industry. As well as being a useful introduction to professional cookery, the course also helps you develop practical skills you can use in everyday life.
This course is suitable for learners with a keen interest in cooking who want to explore the hospitality and catering sector and build confidence in the kitchen.
Course content
You will develop practical cookery skills that focus on the fundamentals of working safely and effectively in a professional kitchen environment.
You will spend time learning how to prepare and cook a range of dishes, including bread and dough products like baguettes and pizzas, cakes and pastries, sandwiches, and vegetable-based dishes such as soups, curries, stir-fries and rice-based meals. Alongside this, you will learn about food hygiene, health and safety, and good working practices that are essential in any professional kitchen.
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 either as a senior phase course or a full-time course in Professional Cookery or Hospitality.
NPA Construction Skills SCQF 5
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 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
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
SfW Early Education and Childcare SCQF 5
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.
Music Performance Units SCQF 7
Music Performance Units SCQF 7
- Duration: One academic year
- Where: UHI North, West and Hebrides, Alness
- When: Tuesday 1100 - 1800
Course content
Throughout the course, you will study the following units:
-
Digital Audio Workstations- Learn how to use music software to record, create and mix music.
-
Instrumental Instruction- Learn how to become a music instructor and gain valuable teaching skills.
-
Song Writing - Gain a deeper insight into what makes your favourite songs so great in term of lyrics and music theory.
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Live Performance - Learn how to rehearse and put on an effective live performance in front of a crowd.
Entry requirements
You must have 1 pass at Higher level, demonstrate a keen interest in music and have a satisfactory reference.
What next
This course can support progression to further study in music or sound-related subjects, such as HNC Music or Sound Production, or other creative courses at SCQF level 7 and above. It can also help prepare you for continued involvement in music performance, recording or creative projects, alongside further training or education.
Sound Production Units SCQF 7
Sound Production Units SCQF 7
- Duration: One academic year
- Where: UHI North, West and Hebrides, Alness
- When: Tuesday 0900 - 6pm
This course introduces you to the practical skills and knowledge needed for sound production across a range of settings. You will learn how sound is recorded, mixed and managed for music, studio work and live events, using industry-standard equipment and software.
Through hands-on activities and project work, you will develop an understanding of how sound is produced, shaped and delivered for different purposes. The course gives you experience of working to briefs and creating finished audio outputs, helping you build confidence in both technical and creative aspects of sound production.
Course content
You will study the following units:
- Recording and Mixing - learn the principles and practice of multi-track recording and mixing, developing skills in studio-based recording environments while responding to client-style briefs.
- Audio Skills - develop practical skills and understanding of sound production theory, equipment and techniques used across a range of audio contexts.
- Creative Music Re-mixing - develop skills in editing, manipulating and re-mixing audio, focusing on creative approaches to music production.
Entry requirements
You must have 1 pass at Higher level, demonstrate a keen interest in sound production and have a satisfactory reference.
What next
This course can support progression to further study in sound production, music technology or other creative disciplines at college or university. It may also help prepare you for entry-level opportunities or further training within the sound and live events sector.
Foundation Apprenticeships
Online: National 4 & SCQF 4 courses
Online: National 5 & SCQF 5 courses
NPA Maritime Studies SCQF 5
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.
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