Progression to Level 4 (TC-L4)

BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification (APQ)

120 Credit Value 

This qualification is approved by the Department for Education (DofE) as a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ). The HTQ status confirms that the TC-L4 meets nationally recognised, employer-defined occupational standards and prepares learners for skilled roles within the counselling profession.

Successful completion of the course leads to a nationally regulated qualification awarded by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB) – the only nationally regulated awarding body to specialise in the field of counselling and supervision.

This two-year  qualification gives you the knowledge, skills and competencies to work as a therapeutic Counsellor.

The course structure is based on a Pluralistic Model, underpinned by the Person Centred Approach to inform counselling skills practice. Other theoretical orientations are integral to the course, alongside relevant theories and models that enable a greater awareness and understanding of the client and their presenting issues. 

This qualification is intended for candidates who have already acquired Level 2 (CSK-L2) and Level 3 (CST-L3) and/or Recognized Prior Learning (RPL).  A qualification in English to GCSE standard or equivalent is also required.  You will have a desire to:

Take the next step in training to become a qualified Counsellor 

Learn more about counselling theory, ethics and mental health

Completed assessments include:

The BACP Certificate of Proficiency (CoP) is incorporated into the Approved Practitioner Qualification and is undertaken as part of the course. Successful completion of the qualification provides a direct route to the BACP Register, subject to BACP membership and registration requirements.

A minimum of 100 hours of counselling placement within a recognised and established counselling agency that provides clinical supervision.

A minimum of 12 hours of personal counselling throughout the course.

Completion of a portfolio demonstrating achievement of the assessment criteria across seven learning units:

1. Working ethically and safely as a counsellor.
2. Working within a counselling relationship.
3. Working with client diversity in counselling work.
4. Working with a user-centred approach to counselling.
5. Working with self-awareness in the counselling process.
6. Working within a coherent framework of counselling, theory and skills.
7. Working self-reflectively as a counsellor.

Course philosophy:

An important aspect of the course is our student-led approach, with tutors providing constructive feedback sensitively and appropriately. Continual support and guidance are offered through regular tutorials, helping to create a positive and supportive learning experience. This is complemented by contributions from external speakers from time to time.

Our philosophy encourages transparency and open communication between students and tutors, supported by our interactive classrooms and tailored Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

Total cost of the course:

£5025.00 for the 1st Year and £4750.00 for the 2nd Year (Total cost over the two years is  £9775.00)

(Inclusive of CPCAB Registration Fee which is currently approx. £391.00 / and applicable each year of the course and BACP CoP fee) 

Cost Breakdown for the 1st Year:

£275.00 Booking Fee applies to secure a place on the course (non-refundable)

£2000.00  Registration Fee is payable at least 8 weeks before the course starts (non-refundable).

The remaining cost of the course is payable 8 weeks before the course starts or an alternative payment plan may be available on request. 

Cost Breakdown for the 2nd Year:

£2000.00 Registration Fee payable at least 8 weeks before the start of the 2nd Year

The remaining cost of the course is payable 8 weeks before the course starts or an alternative payment plan may be available on request. 

Please refer to ACE Courses Policies for further information

Recommended Minimum Age 24 and obtained the following:

• Level 2 (CSK-L2) and Level 3 (CST-L3) counselling qualifications, and/or equivalent Recognised Prior Learning (RPL).
• A qualification in English at GCSE or equivalent 

Candidates are also expected to meet the following criteria: 

•  Identify reasons for training beyond just personal development
•  Provide references
• Academically and emotionally able to cope with this level of training
• Ability to work with difference and diversity
• Possess personal qualities of imagination, intuition, openness and ability to benefit from self-development
• Ability to form a therapeutic relationship
• Self-awareness, insight, honesty and integrity
• Emotional stability and the absence of personality disturbance
• Ability to challenge and be challenged
• Ability to respond sensitively and empathically to others
• Capability to begin working with clients within an agency setting
• Are intending (and actively seeking) to begin work with clients during year 1 of the programme

In-Person at an ACE Location / Blended (25% Online)

420 hours minimum Guided Learning (GLH)

1,204 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT)

Course duration: approximately 2 years

Next course start date:

Guernsey - St Peter Port

Start date:  TBA

SE London - University of Greenwich

Start date: October 2027 - July  2029

Wednesday / Weekly

5.00pm - 9.00pm (Excluding Tutorials)

Winchester - University of Winchester

Start date:  January 2027 - November 2028

Sunday (Fortnightly)

9.30am - 4.30pm (Excluding Tutorials)

Starting from January 2027 - Locations:

• SE London / University of Greenwich
• Winchester / University of Winchester

1. Completion and submission of ACE Courses Registration Form
2. On receipt, you will receive an acknowledgement within 48 hours and a decision thereafter.  
3. If you fulfil ACE Courses criteria you will be offered a place on the course subject to receiving the advised initial booking fee to secure your place.