THE SCHOOL OF COUNSELLING
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often. If something is not covered here, use the contact form and we will get back to you.
Still unsure? Send us a message.
START DATES AND AVAILABILITY
When do your courses start?
We run five intakes per year, coordinated so students can move smoothly from one level to the next. Our main intakes are in February, April, June, September, and November. Each intake is listed on the relevant course page. If a course shows as full, the next intake date will be clearly indicated.
Is the intensive course still available?
Intensive courses open for applications at the start of each intake period and fill quickly. If the intensive course for your preferred start date is no longer available, the standard course will still be open, and you can join the intensive route at the next intake.
What is the difference between the standard and intensive course?
The standard course runs for 30 weeks with a weekly three-hour session. The intensive course covers the same content in 18 weeks, with longer sessions each week.
The intensive route suits students who want to complete Level 2 in time to begin Level 3 at the following intake. Both routes lead to the same CPCAB qualification.
HOW THE COURSE WORKS
Will the course always run on the same day and time?
Yes. Your day and time are fixed from the start and do not change. We follow UK school term times, so there are scheduled breaks at half term and over the summer. You will know your full schedule before you begin.
What if I need to miss a lesson?
Missing one or two lessons will not significantly affect your learning or your ability to complete the course. Please let us know in advance when possible.
Students cannot transfer between groups to catch up on missed lessons. The group itself is a core part of the learning experience, so each group stays together throughout the course.
Is the course fully online?
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
What do I need to start Level 2?
There are no formal academic entry requirements for Level 2. We ask that you are 18 or over, have a reasonable level of written English, and are able to attend consistently. All applicants complete a short informal interview before being offered a place.
What qualifications do I need to start Level 3?
Level 3 entry requires a group-based, tutor-led Level 2 counselling qualification with sufficient guided learning hours. CPCAB Level 2 meets this directly.
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When it comes to qualifications from other providers:
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TQUK Level 2 (RQF) — accepted for Level 2 entry only, not direct entry to Level 3.
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NCFE/CACHE qualifications — unlikely to be accepted.
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Distance learning, self-directed, or non-tutor-led courses — not accepted, regardless of awarding body. Group learning with a qualified tutor is a CPCAB requirement.
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If you have a qualification from another provider, contact us with the course name, awarding body, and number of guided learning hours and we will advise you.
Can I start at Level 3 if I already have a Level 2 from another provider?
Possibly, depending on your qualification. CPCAB assesses eligible prior learning on a case-by-case basis. The key factors are the awarding body, the number of guided learning hours, and whether the course was delivered in a group setting with a tutor.
Contact us with the details of your qualification and we will advise you before you apply.
THE APPLICATION AND INTERVIEW
What is the interview and what do I need to prepare?
The interview is a short, informal conversation on Zoom. There is nothing to prepare and no pressure to commit. It gives you a chance to ask questions and understand what the course involves, and it gives us a chance to make sure the course is a good fit.
Most interviews last around 30 minutes. We also run group interview sessions on selected dates — these follow the same format and are a good option if individual slots are fully booked.
I cannot find an interview slot on Calendly. What should I do?
Slots fill quickly during busy application periods. If you cannot find availability, email us at admin@schoolofcounselling.com with your preferred days and times and we will do our best to arrange something outside the standard calendar.
FEES AND PAYMENT
How much does the course cost?
Course fees are listed on each individual course page. Once you receive an offer, we ask for a deposit to secure your place. The remaining balance can be paid in full or spread across a monthly payment plan for the duration of the course.
Do you accept student finance or advanced learner loans?
We do not currently accept student finance or advanced learner loans. We offer a monthly payment plan spread across the length of the course to help make fees manageable. If you have questions about payment before applying, get in touch and we will talk you through the options.
QUALIFICATIONS AND PROGRESSION
Are your courses CPCAB accredited?
Yes. All our counselling courses are accredited by CPCAB — the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body. CPCAB qualifications are widely recognised by employers and professional bodies, and provide a clear progression route from Level 2 through to professional qualification at Level 4 and beyond.
How do the levels connect?
Our courses are designed as a connected pathway. We run five intakes per year, timed so that students finishing one level can move directly to the next without a gap.
Level 2 builds foundational counselling skills. Level 3 develops your practice further. Level 4 is the professional training level and leads to qualification as a counsellor. If becoming a practising counsellor is your goal, Level 4 is where that qualification is achieved.