Level 4 Diploma in Advice and Guidance

Who is it for?

To achieve this qualification, you will be an experienced practitioner who works directly with clients disseminating information, advice, guidance and formal advocacy. You will:

• have managerial or training responsibilities
• be a creator of information, advice and guidance within the service/practice
• be dynamic in your dealings with organisations.

It supports the recognised need that individuals and employers must be responsible for gaining the skills needed to meet ever changing objectives which will in turn lead to improvements in efficiency and effectiveness throughout the organisation and with clients.

What topics does the qualification cover?

• Develop interactions with advice and guidance clients: interact with clients appropriately and constructively, summarise and review interactions, recognise factors which could impact on interactions including environment and potential barriers to achievement.
• Manage personal caseload: for a caseload of clients – keep records, prioritise actions and monitor progress.
• Evaluate and develop own contribution to the service: evaluate performance, plan activities to improve or develop, maintain a personal development plan.
• Operate within networks: understanding the importance of other services. Networking, exchanging information and maintaining personal contacts.
• Understand the importance of legislation and procedures: demonstrate understanding and compliance with legislation, codes of practice and organisational requirements. Use organisational systems to record interactions.

Plus a range of options to choose covering a variety of tasks and skills such as:  facilitate learning in groups, liaising with other services, advocacy and negotiation on behalf of clients, assisting clients to implement and review your achievement of actions. 

Programme structure

You will provide evidence of your work practice, including completing assignments, case studies, written accounts and providing work products. Evidence is uploaded to an e-portfolio which is available 24/7 on computers, tablets and mobile devices.

An Open University assessor will observe work-based practice on at least one occasion, assess evidence uploaded to the e-portfolio and provide developmental feedback.

You will have access through VQLearner Home to online resources specific to your qualification and links to suggested further study with The Open University.

Support will be provided throughout the qualification by the VQAC Learner Support Team.