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Do I need to start at Level 1?
No, Level 1 is a one day course only, usually for groups in hospitals, GP surgeries or commercial enterprises. It does not attract a qualification, these courses start at Level 2.
How do I decide between Level 2 or Level 3?
The Level 2 course is aimed at the complete beginner to terminology and is the first of the certificated courses. Many people feel comfortable starting at this entry level. However if you are already using some terminology in a work environment then you can quite comfortably start at Level 3 without completing Level 2. Once you have attained the Level 2 qualification, you will be able to “upgrade” to the Level 3 course at a discounted rate.
How long are the courses?
Level 2 is 12 weeks ( 6 modules) and Level 3 is 20 weeks (10 modules).
How many hours do I need to study ?
For the Level 2 the recommended study time is 6-8 hours per weeks. For the Level 3 the recommended study time is 8-10 hours per weeks.
If upgrading the suggested study time is 6- 8 hours per week.
How long do I have to be online?
You only need to log onto the internet on the first day of each module. You will then be able to download and print off the various sections of the module and keep these as hard copy to revise from. Two weeks later you will need to log on again to complete the revision test (about 15 mins) and to download the next module. In Level 3 there are soundbites accompanying many of the words so you may want to log on a few more times to hear the correct pronunciation.
How will my progress be monitored?
You will be allocated an AMSPAR qualified mentor who will be your support and guide throughout the course. Your revision tests will be marked by your mentor and you will receive feedback and advice after each test. They will monitor your progress through the modules and be in email contact with you for advice and to answer any queries you may have. You will be required to achieve a pass mark of 75% in the revision tests to mirror the pass mark in the exam. Should your not reach this standard your mentor will advise about possibly dropping down a lower level course.
Is there any funding available?
If you are currently working in the NHS on a permanent contract, are in a Band 1-4 and your line manager approves your need for training you can apply for JIF (Joint Investment Framework) funding via your Training and Development dept. The funds do not come out of the Trust but a government scheme brokered by Skills for Health and Train to Gain. This request would need to be made at least 6 weeks before the start of the course.
If you are not working for the NHS, the only funding available is through the DWP and the criteria there is that you need to have been unemployed for 6 months.
How can I pay for the course?
The easiest and quickest way to pay for the course is via the Registration page on the website. Once the registration details are complete, you can scroll further down to the Pay Pal section. You do not need a Pay Pal account to pay by this method, just a debit or credit card.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes, though you will pay 6% more due to administration costs. Payments for Level 2 may be made in 3 equal instalments, the first being at the start of the course, the second after module 2 and the third payment at Module 4 when the registration and exam fees are also payable.
Payments for Level 3 are collected in 3 equal instalments, the first at the start of the course, the second after Module 3 and the third after Module 6 then the registration and exam fee are also payable.
Is the exam online or a written paper?
The paper is a written paper (100 questions) and is taken on a set day at a set time (afternoon). The level 2 exam is held
3 times a year in January, June and November and the Level 3 exam is held three times a year in
February, May and November. The exam date is not moveable so you should establish you are available for the exam on commencement of the course. Please check with Mediterm Training for the exact date.
Where can I take the exam?
The exam may be taken locally.
Brook St Employment agencies kindly
host our AMSPAR Exams for us. They will be very happy to speak
to you following your exam, should you wish to seek work as a
temporary medical secretary with them ( a great way to gain
experience). To find your nearest Brook ST office, visit
www.brookstreet.co.uk and type your postcode in the box on the
left. There is always an exam in the centre of London and in our
centre in Stockport.
There are many centres which are authorised to hold the examinations. Pitman’s Training Centres, City and Guilds GOLA Centres, local colleges, Learn Direct Centres and various training establishments. There is always an exam in the centre of London and South Manchester. Lists of these venues are available.
In addition sometimes the exam may be held at your place of work providing there is someone who is willing to invigilate and adhere to City and Guilds procedures and exam policy.
Is there a charge for taking the exam?
City&Guilds exam and registration fees are fixed at £55 for
Level 2 and £60 for level 3. We collect these and pay City
&Guilds in bulk when we register you and enter you for the exam.
IF taking the exam at our Centre in Stockport or at your place
of work , there is no charge
If taking the exam at Brook St, they will levy an invigilation
fee of £25, which again we take on their behalf and pay them in
bulk.
Other Centres such as Pitman Training, GOLA centres etc will
levy their own charge which is usually £55 . These are payable
directly by the student on the day.
What are the pass marks /grades of the exam?
You must obtain a minimum of 75% to achieve a pass. 75- 85% is a pass, 86- 93% is a credit and above 94% is a distinction.
Can I re-take the exam if I fail?
you may take the exam as many times as you wish during the 3
year registration period with City &Guilds. The exam fees to
resit only are £25 ( you will be registered already).
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