Health and Social Care

This course will equip you with the tools you need to pursue a rewarding career in nursing or allied health professions. It's a widely recognised qualification which is highly valued by universities and employers. You'll attend college two days per week and spend two days per week on clinical placement, so not only will you gain in depth theoretical knowledge but you'll develop practical, hand-on skills essential for your next steps.

For this course you'll need:

• a minimum of two relevant Highers and ideally National 5 Maths/Numeracy, or a relevant NC course at SCQF Level 6 or equivalent, such as NC Higher Health and Social Care or First Steps to Counselling and Mental Health
• to be capable and have the capacity to work appropriately in a healthcare setting
• a detailed personal statement on application
• to possibly attend a group and/or individual interview and information session, during which you may be asked to complete a written activity
• to become a member of the PVG scheme*

If you do not have the required qualifications but can demonstrate the ability to work at SCQF level 7 and have life/work experience, skills and qualities relevant to the care sector we may also consider you for a place.

The course includes a placement for which excellent attendance, adherence to Nursing and Midwifery Council values and good performance are essential. You will be expected to work early shifts as allocated by the placement provider and must complete the minimum number of hours within the set timescales. For your own health and wellbeing you should ensure that you can commit to the course and placement without detriment to your work life balance. Preparation for placement includes PVG membership and People Handling Training. You may be required to make a contribution towards the cost of your uniform.

*Students will apply for membership or an update to join the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme. This involves a police check by Disclosure Scotland. You can ask about this at the point of application or interview, and this is highly recommended for applicants who have a criminal history.

• clinical skills: develop the knowledge and practical skills which underpin safe and effective person-centred care
• placement: provides an excellent opportunity to develop your clinical skills
• factors impacting health: explore the various factors influencing the health of people in Scotland, looking at health statistics and public health strategies to address inequalities
• safe working practices: protocols to maintain a safe care environment and skills to recognise and manage challenging situations and medical emergencies
• therapeutic relationships: understand the importance of therapeutic relationships in supporting people receiving care
• human development: explore psychological theories of human development and behaviour and how they can impact on how a care worker supports the individual
• human body: study the body’s processes for health and wellbeing, explore systems and examine different diseases and their impact on health
• professional care practice: look at care planning processes and the regulations, values and skills integral to professional care practice
• mental health: investigate poor mental health in Scotland and explore strategies for promoting mental health

Throughout the course, guest speakers from the NHS and universities will share insights and enrich your learning experience.

On completion of this course you may:

• progress to further study in the following areas – adult nursing, mental health, child and learning disability nursing, midwifery or allied health professions. Please check with university websites for details of their entrance requirements.
• gain entry to BSc(Hons) Collaborative Health and Social Care (possibly direct to second year)
• begin your career as a Health Care Support Worker at Band 3 within the NHS

You’ll gain knowledge and practical skills crucial for safe and effective care. You’ll develop an understanding of factors affecting the care sector and learn how to navigate challenges within different roles. The real-life skills you’ll gain from your work placement and input from industry experts, will ensure you are fully prepared to take your next step, whether it be into further study or employment.