Learners in Difficulty
Everything you need to know
- Start date: January 2027
- End date: June 2027
- Module leader: Patricia Hughes
- Level: 7
- Credits: 15
Introduction
You will critically examine mentoring, coaching, and supervision models and their use across diverse, inter-professional settings.
Emphasis is placed on the value of early, constructive support for individuals, teams, professions, and organisations. Learning is underpinned by the Hallam Model, promoting applied, inclusive, and collaborative approaches that support real-world professional development and reflective practice.
Who is this course/module for?
Qualified Healthcare Practitioners
Those working in educational environments
What you’ll learn
Through engagement with evidence-based frameworks, you will develop strategies to support learners in difficulty, using a range of communication and support approaches. You will also reflect on your own development needs and create a personalised action plan. By the end of the module, you will be equipped with the insight and tools to foster an inclusive learning culture and support others through challenges.
Skills you’ll gain
Supporting learners in difficulty
Communication strategies
Personal reflection
Evidence base evaluation
How you’ll learn
You will engage with a series of structured, information-rich learning packages, designed to foster self-directed, active learning. These packages will guide you to critically explore key concepts such as mentoring, coaching, supervision, inclusive practice, and support for learners in difficulty. As you work through the materials independently, you will be encouraged to draw connections between theory and your own professional experience, deepening your insight and reflective capacity.
Alongside this, you will participate in collaborative online sessions where you will examine complex issues with peers. These sessions will help you consolidate learning, develop your critical voice, and consider diverse perspectives across professional boundaries.
Fees and Funding for 2026/27
| Indicative price for stand-alone module |
Home student: £915 EU / International students: £930 - The University cannot sponsor a Student Visa for CPD modules. However, if you already have permission to study in the UK, you can apply. If you’re unsure whether your visa allows this, please contact the International Experience Team at hallamhelp@shu.ac.uk to discuss your options. |
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| How to apply |
You can apply for this module using our online admissions form. After you have registered or logged in, select the module title under "Please choose your first module". |
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Entry requirements
Relevant professional healthcare qualification
First degree or equivalent
Relevant work experience
3 years post-qualification experience (part-time equivalent)
Relevant workplace opportunities and organisational support,you need to be able to work with a colleague to try out your developing skills through the module
IELTS 6.5
(The above must be evidenced in the applicants application form)
International students must have reliable internet access and supply IELTS scores.
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Attendance
Delivery Method:
Blended learning (in-person and online learning activities). A mix of on-campus and online learning, with both in-person sessions and digital activities included in your course. We will require all non-British and non-Irish students to attend campus for an in-person verification check to comply with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements at the start of their first module.
View our statement on notional study hours »
Provisional timetable
Tutorials will be held on the following dates:
- Thursday 21 January 12.00pm - 1.00pm
- Thursday 28 January 12.00pm - 1.30pm
- Thursday 11 February 12.00pm - 2.00pm
- Thursday 25 February 12.00pm - 1.30pm
- Thursday 11 March 12.00pm - 1.30pm
- Thursday 25 March 12.00pm - 1.30pm
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Assessment
Module assessment is made up of one or more assessment tasks. The assessment task(s) for this module are:
- Audio-Visual Online Presentation
- Critical Reflection
Successful completion of this module will earn you 15 level 7 credits
Further details
For further information please contact the module leader Patricia Hughes - p.hughes@shu.ac.uk