1. Recruitment & Selection of Students Policy
Redlands Counselling Training is committed to recruiting and selecting students in a fair, transparent, and inclusive way. We aim to attract and admit learners who demonstrate the values, commitment, and personal qualities required to train as ethical, reflective counselling practitioners.
2. Purpose of the Policy
This policy outlines the principles and procedures for recruiting and selecting students for all Redlands Counselling Training programmes. It ensures:
- Equal opportunity for all applicants
- Consistency and transparency in decision-making
- Recruitment of students who can benefit from and contribute to our training environment
3. Equality, Inclusion & Diversity
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and life experiences.
Selection decisions are based on merit, potential, and suitability for the course—regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background.
We make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment and selection process to accommodate applicants with disabilities or additional needs.
4. Entry Requirements
Applicants need to meet the generic entry requirements set by CPCAB and for each course the specific course entry requirements set by CPCAB
5. Application Process
Taster workshop – complete and submit online Booking Form
Effective Listening Skills course (ELS) – complete and submit online Booking Form
CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (CSK-L2):
- Complete and submit online Application Form
- Receive a suitable reference
- Attend interview (unless attended an ELS and the ELS tutor confirms readiness to progress
CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (CST-L3):
- Complete and submit online Application Form
- Receive reference from CSK-L2 tutor confirming readiness to progress to CST-L3
- Depending on information received may need to attend an interview
CPCAB Level 4 BACP Approved Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4):
- Complete and submit online Application form
- Receive reference from CST-L3 tutor confirming readiness to progress to Level 4
- Attend interview
CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Coaching:
- Complete and submit online Application form
- Receive reference from CST-L3 tutor confirming readiness to progress to Level 4
- Attend interview
CPCAB Level 5 and 6 Courses:
- Submit online Application Form
- Receive reference from clinical supervisor confirming readiness to progress to higher Level course
- Attend interview
6. Selection Criteria
We assess applicants against the generic and relevant course specific entry requirements set by CPCAB
7. Progression
Progression from one course level to the next is not automatic. It is subject to eligibility, suitability, and the application requirements set out in Section 5: Application Process. Learners wishing to progress must apply in line with those procedures.
After a break between course levels:
Applicants who have completed a previous level of counselling training (e.g. Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies) and wish to progress to the next level (e.g. Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling) after a break are welcome to apply. To ensure readiness and suitability:
Breaks of up to 18 months are generally acceptable without re-training, provided the applicant remains engaged in personal development or related practice.
Applicants returning after a longer break may be asked to:
- Attend a progression interview.
- Provide a tutor reference or professional recommendation.
- Demonstrate continued reflective capacity and emotional readiness.
All applicants will be assessed on current suitability for the demands of the next level, regardless of time elapsed.
Redlands cannot guarantee that progression routes or follow‑on courses will run
8. Safeguarding Considerations
- Applicants are asked to disclose any relevant criminal convictions.
- For courses involving placement with vulnerable groups, an enhanced DBS check will be required in accordance with safeguarding legislation.
9. Offers & Enrolment
- Successful applicants will receive a written offer, outlining course details, fees, and conditions of enrolment.
- Offers may be conditional on meeting specific requirements (e.g. providing references, completing pre-course work, DBS clearance).
- Places are confirmed upon receipt of signed acceptance and deposit/payment.
10. Feedback & Appeals
- We are committed to providing constructive feedback to unsuccessful applicants upon request.
- Applicants who believe they have been unfairly treated may submit an appeal in writing within 14 days of the decision, which will be reviewed by a senior staff member not involved in the original selection.
Reviewed March 2026