Starting S4 in August 2027
Our senior phase courses are geared towards developing key employability skills and designed to expand your awareness of a subject area to help influence your choices in the future. These courses allow you to progress through the different levels of study available within your area of interest.
These courses count as one of your school column choices in your senior phase years and can be added into your existing school timetable.
It is essential that you submit your application through the school application process rather than any full-time application routes. Applications submitted outside the school process will be treated as full-time applications and assessed as if you are a school leaver.
Click on the links below to find out more information about each course. If you have any questions, please contact the schools team at schools.ic@uhi.ac.uk.
Business and Creative Industries
Care, Arts, Sports and Humanities
Forestry, Science, Computing and Education
Construction and Engineering
Introduction to Renewable Energy
Introduction to Renewable Energy
Available to S4, S5, S6
Course Summary
This course is designed as a hands-on introduction to renewable energy, aimed at senior phase pupils who want practical skills and a clear pathway into green careers. Unlike traditional construction courses, it combines plumbing and electrical installation skills with an understanding of sustainable technologies such as heat pumps and solar thermal systems.
What makes it unique is its pre-apprenticeship focus, giving learners the confidence and competence to progress into apprenticeships, further study, or entry-level roles in the energy sector. The programme reflects Scotland’s commitment to net zero, ensuring learners gain skills that are in high demand as the industry evolves.
Students will benefit from real-world learning in college workshops, supported by staff with industry experience.
Course Content
- Practical introduction to sustainable technologies such as heat pumps and solar thermal systems.
- Combines plumbing, electrical installation, and mechanical fundamentals for a well-rounded skill set.
- Designed to prepare learners for apprenticeships, further study, or entry-level roles in the energy sector.
- Delivered in college workshops with real-world tasks and problem-solving activities.
- Developed in response to employer demand and Scotland’s net zero targets.
- Promotes awareness of sustainability and the role of renewable energy in modern society.
Course Qualification
National 5 Skills for Work Energy (SCQF Level 5)
Progression
On completion of this course you may progress onto:
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements are flexible; ideally, applicants will have 1 pass at National 4.
Offer Expectations
If you're offered a place, we’d love for you to join an Offer Holder Day on 5 June, 12 June, or both. It’s a great chance to meet your lecturers and classmates and confirm your place for August.
Location
UHI Inverness, Main Campus, Inverness, IV2 5NA
Duration
1 Year (August to April)
Day/time
Friday, 10am - 3.30pm
Applications now closed