Benefits of YASS

YASS modules admirably supplement the range of traditional award-bearing courses and units that any one school can offer in the Sixth Year . This flexible alternative gives students a taste of University-style work, and an opportunity either to specialise and deepen their knowledge and skills in one particular area or to initiate study in a new field. The means of delivery promotes student responsibility for their own learning, which is at the heart of Curriculum for Excellence. In Highland, the availability of these modules to our S6 students and the learning that ensues is greatly appreciated by both schools and students alike!

Bill Irwin, CfE Development Officer, Highland Council

Igniting a lifelong passion for learning

Studying with The Open University in Scotland offers motivated and able students the opportunity to study at university level (SCQF level 7) alongside their other studies in S6. Open University study can also help make an UCAS application stand out from other students.

What’s in it for students?

YASS is a unique opportunity for students to experience learning at university level and develop their independent study and research skills. As well as enabling them to take the first step towards an Open University degree qualification, it also helps them develop an impressive academic portfolio which will differentiate them from other students when it comes to applying to other universities.

Broadening horizons

Open University modules provide an opportunity for students to deepen their existing knowledge or try a completely different subject. Students taking arts subjects at Higher or Advanced Higher level might like to study maths or science to broaden their skills for example. Alternatively they might opt for an Open University module with relates closely to their Higher or Advanced Higher subjects – improving their knowledge and helping them to approach topics in a different way.

The first step towards a degree

Some YASS students like Open University study so much that they decide to carry on and complete their degrees with us. If they do decide to do this, they’ll be able to count any YASS module towards their degree, giving them a head start.

What’s in it for teachers?

By tapping into over 60 modules in 13 different subject areas, YASS allows teachers to offer students an exciting extension to the normal curriculum. The scheme also provides a positive way for them to ensure that their students remain motivated and focused, working out for themselves the best time for study.

External recognition

YASS makes a significant contribution to the objectives of the Scottish government’s Curriculum for Excellence in the following ways:

Successful learners: students will learn independently, often using new technologies
Confident individuals: students can pursue personal interests and ambitions in significant depth, exploring subject areas not normally available in schools (such as robotics, astronomy, law finance, chronic diseases, nutrition).
Responsible citizens: our open entry approach means that students from all subject areas can engage with important contemporary issues (for example in environmental studies, technology of science).
Effective contributors: students will be stretched, required to work in new ways, managing their own time effectively and developing self-reliance.

Admissions tutors of HE and FE institutions are being advised in ‘The guide for UK Qualifications’ to give consideration to higher education credit points. The Scheme is also supported by UCAS.