Overview
Who is it for?
This course is designed for new or recent entrants to the Public Service Interpreting industry. It is aimed at all freelance or practising interpreters or linguists with the specified competence in at least two languages (one of them English) who want to develop their professional skills and knowledge as Public Service Interpreters.
The Certificate will enable you to learn the basics of Public Service Interpreting. You will gain a fundamental understanding of the role and responsibilities of an interpreter. Success in this course will enable you to progress to the Vocational Diploma in Public Service Interpreting.
What jobs will I be able to do?
- Face to Face interpreter
- Telephone Interpreter
In these roles, you could earn between £30 and £60 per hour (source: http://www.prospects.ac.uk).
Description
When can I start?
Start dates for the course are: January, April, July, October
How long does it take?
The average length of time taken is 3 months.
Are there any requirements?
English language skills: you must have;
* English GCSE grade C or above or equivalent:
* Key skills level 2
* Level 2 (literacy and numeracy)
* BTEC first diploma (was previously GNVQ intermediate)
* NVQ level2 or
* IELTS 6.0 with no skill below 5.5 or equivalent and you must have (OTHER language criteria)
* native speaker level of another language including the ability to read, write and speak the language with a full comprehension of it. This can be evidenced by
a qualification comparable to English GCSE grade C or equivalent and you must be able to demonstrate the following;
* experience of working as a consecutive/liaison interpreter for at least 25 hours as a volunteer, as a freelance or as an employee, which can be evidenced for example by a letter from an employer.
* an understanding of the procedures and background of some or all of the following activities: immigration, asylum, hospitals, police stations, courts of law, local authority services, education and employment.
* the personal skills and qualities required to study independently and work unsupervised and in situations that require sensitivity and confidentiality.
What will I learn?
The course will teach you the basic skills and knowledge that you will need to be become an interpreter. It explains the code of conduct and legalities that you will need to work to as well as the different forms of interpreting.
Unit breakdown
Essential Professional Skills (20 credits)
Covers the essential professional skills for interpreters, the legal framework covering interpreting and strategies for continuing professional development.
Essential Interpreting Skills (20 credits)
Covers the act of interpreting, interpreting strategies, note-taking, short term memory, issues of register, tone, person, clarity and speed of delivery.
What support will I have?
- 24-hour access to our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)
- Guidance and support from your Leeds Metropolitan University Tutor
- Access to Leeds Metropolitan University library
How will you assess me?
You will be assessed by completing written assignments.
How do I apply?
You can get started with your application form by clicking the link below, or visiting the Leeds Met. Microsite: http://interpreting.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/course/vocational-certificate-in-interpreting/