Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance
- Start date(s): April
- Centre(s): Blended - Online and Self-study
- Course duration: 16 weeks
Course details
This course has been designed to allow you to gain an understanding of the key areas associated with giving effective information, advice and guidance (IAG). Knowledge and skills learnt will include signposting, referrals, record keeping, confidentiality and communication/listening skills.
It’s ideal for individuals who work in, or are looking to work in, an information, advice or guidance role, such as: careers advisor, counsellor, customer service advisor, debt advisor, employment advisor, help-desk advisor, housing support worker, learning support worker, legal services support worker, peer mentor with a range of employers, such as: local authorities, careers advice services, voluntary sector organisations, student services, citizen advice services and housing associations.
On this course, you will study the following five mandatory units:
- Information, advice or guidance in practice: In this unit you will learn about the various differences between information, advice and guidance (IAG) and the requirements of different clients and how these are best met. You will also gain in-depth knowledge of the boundaries and responsibilities present when offering IAG including signposting, referrals and record keeping.
- Developing interaction skills for information, advice or guidance: Through this second unit, discover how to interact with clients, executing appropriate and effective questioning techniques, listening skills and non-verbal communication. You will also gain knowledge of the impact of values, beliefs and attitudes on any interactions that may be encountered, as well as the importance of confidentiality and impartiality.
- Signposting and referral in information, advice or guidance: Gain an understanding of the difference between signposting and referrals including when it’s appropriate to refer or signpost an individual organisation’s procedures. You will also gain knowledge of good practice when signposting and referring, including recording, monitoring and evaluating.
- Information, advice or guidance in context: In this unit you’ll understand IAG in the context of your own practice and for a specific group of clients. You’ll explore different ways of assisting clients to explore and make choices as well as build your knowledge of discriminatory practices and behaviours affecting specific client groups, as well as potential barriers and how to overcome them.
- Skills for advice providers: This final unit This unit will provide an understanding of the purpose and process of an advice interview, examining the relationship between client and advisor, the advisor’s role, stages of the advice interview and how to ensure client confidentiality. A key part of this section is gaining knowledge of social policy in advice work, negotiating effectively on a client’s behalf and support and action planning.
This course is delivered via blended learning. You will attend sessions face to face in one of our adult learning centres as well as attending some online classes.
For this course, you will be required to create a portfolio of evidence meeting the assessment criteria for the qualification.
For this course, you will need to have Level 1 Digital Skills and a Level 2 English (speaking, reading and writing) qualification.
You will also need access to a laptop or PC and be digitally confident to attend online classes and complete assignments throughout the course. You can apply to our Chromebook loan system if you do not have a suitable device.
A keen interest in this subject for your professional development is also necessary.
Career and progression routes
Following the completion of this course, you may be able to join the following courses with us to take your learning further:
- Level 2 Counselling Skills
- Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities
- Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Behaviour that Challenges.
You will also be able to use your newfound understanding and skills within your current role or to progress to better employment.