Entry is through submission of an application form, evidence of qualifications, 2 suitable references, a satisfactory criminal records check and a personal interview. The following requirements comply with both QAA and BACP’s standards for training in psychotherapy:
- Evidence of study at RQF (Recognised Qualifications Framework) level 3 qualification (or equivalent) – e.g. A level, NVQ, BTEC
- Evidence of successful completion of a basic, (preferably) face-to-face, Counselling Skills course (minimum 30 hours)
- Evidence of relevant experience of working with people in a responsible or supportive role
- Attendance at an SPTI Information Day
Applicants who do not meet the academic requirements for entry, but satisfy criteria relating to ‘relevant work and/or life experience, may be asked to complete a short essay in order to demonstrate their capacity to study at the relevant academic level in addition to providing evidence of other qualifications.
Where English is not your first language, you must demonstrate a pass in either:
- IELTS 6.0 (no less than 5.5 in any element), or
- TOEFL iBT 87 (no less than 21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking), or
- CELE pre-course of study
SPTI can only consider applications from applicants who satisfy HOME fee residential status criteria e.g. UK/EU/EEA including Switzerland. SPTI is not a UK Home Office registered sponsor and we are unable to admit international students.
SPTI welcomes applications for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL). If you think that past experiences and learning may be used toward gaining formal credit toward study at SPTI, you may be able to apply for APL.
Interviews
Interviews are conducted with the Programme Leader or an experienced professional counsellor/psychotherapist and is likely to be for a minimum of 30 minutes duration. At interview, you will need to demonstrate that you have, or have the potential to develop, the following attributes:
- Self-awareness, maturity and stability
- Ability to reflect on life experiences and utilise constructive feedback
- Capacity to cope with the emotional and intellectual demands of the programme
- Ability to form a helping relationship
- Awareness of issues of diversity and equality, prejudice and oppression
- Ability to recognise the need for personal and professional support