Health and Social Care

If you’re interested in a career in the care sector, such as health care, social care or childcare, this course is a great place to start.

• A real interest in working with people
• Any relevant qualifications or experience, eg voluntary work experience.

ESOL entry requirements

• Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 4
• You should be aware that you will be asked to join the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme on all care course at level 6 or above and occupationally fit for practice.

Selection Process

You'll be invited for a group and/or individual interview where you can find out more about the course and tell us why you're interested in this subject area or we'll make an offer based on your application form.

This course gives you a good introduction to what you’ll need to know and understand to work successfully in a care practice setting. The focus is on understanding why people use care services, and developing your skills to support the health and wellbeing of others. You’ll also have the chance to focus on your own Personal Development, building your confidence, self reliance and interpersonal skills through a range of projects. Throughout the course, you’ll hear from a range of guest speakers, including people from the health board and local care services. You will also attend relevant visits to care settings.  

Level 5 course in Health and Social Care or NC Early Education and Childcare - Exploring your career options in the care sector.

An understanding of basic care skills such as communication and teamworking.

Ayrshire college has strong partnerships with different care providers supporting people with a number of different needs related to: 

• Physical health  
• Mental health 
• Homelessness 
• Addiction 
• Children  
• Older adults 
• Learning disabilities 
• Additional Support Needs 

Emily Ayre – student on HNC HCP: 

"I have been a student at Ayrshire college for three years studying Health and Social Care, now in my fourth studying HNC Healthcare Practice. I struggled in school and left with no qualifications at the end of S4 and then started at Ayrshire College when I was 17. The difference I have recognised between school and college is huge. There is so much support within the college for every aspect possible. There is learning support for those with difficulties such as dyslexia, there is mental health support and academic support for help with assessments, CV writing and UCAS applications. I have grown so much as a person within my time at Ayrshire college in so many different ways and I am continuing to achieve my goal of becoming a midwife with help from Ayrshire college."