Health and Social Care

This course offers a well-balanced blend of theory and practice and uses various teaching methods such as group work, discussion, case studies and independent learning to prepare you for a rewarding career in social care. You’ll spend two days per week in college and an additional two days in a work placement. The skills you’ll develop and practical experience you’ll gain will ensure you’re ready for real world challenges. This course not only opens doors to various job opportunities, such as a Social Work Assistant or in social care support, but it also lays the foundation for progression to university.

For this course you’ll need:

• at least two relevant Highers at grade C or above - Higher English would be ideal, as would Modern Studies, History, Psychology, Sociology and Care Highers
• as an alternative to Highers you may have a relevant course at SCQF level 6 or their equivalent such as Higher Health and Social Care, First Steps to Counselling and Mental Health or Higher Social Sciences
• an SCQF level 5 qualification in maths and/or numeracy is preferred, and may be a requirement for progression to some university courses
• a personal statement detailing relevant experience as a volunteer or paid employee in a care work setting, your reasons for applying and why you believe you would be suitable
• to be capable and have the capacity to work appropriately in a care setting
• a successful group and/or individual interview and information session, during which you may be asked to complete a written activity
• a satisfactory reference
• to become a member of the PVG scheme*

*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.

This course covers subjects such as:

• care work placement: will provide excellent opportunities to support others while developing your knowledge, skills and practice. If you are already working in a care or support role that will provide you with the required experiences and have your employer’s support and agreement, you will not be required to do a different placement
• vocational skills: communication, health, safety, security and supporting others will be demonstrated and assessed in the work placement, you will write reflective accounts linking knowledge and theory to practice
• meta-skills: recognising and developing skills such as adapting, initiative, communication , leading , collaborating and critical thinking
• values and principles: investigate care provision focusing on the ethical principles guiding care practice, and the values that underpin professional conduct
• reflective practice: reflect on experiences and focus on continuous personal growth
• approaches for assessing needs: look at the diverse methods for assessing the unique needs of individuals - a crucial aspect of effective care
• legislation and policy: navigate the legal and political considerations shaping social services
• human development and behaviour: explore human development and understand factors that influence human behaviour
• health, safety and wellbeing: prioritise the health, safety and overall wellbeing of individuals within a care context
• digital skills: developing digital skills and awareness of technology enabled person-centred care

On completion of this course you may:

• register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) meaning you can apply for roles in community care, day services, respite or residential settings
• advance your career through work-based qualifications
• apply for degree courses related to social work, mental health nursing and occupational therapy
• apply for BSc(Hons) Collaborative Health and Social Care (possibly direct to second year)

Please check with university websites for details of their entrance requirements.

On this course you’ll develop comprehensive values, knowledge and skills crucial for roles within the social care sector. You’ll also gain transferable skills which will enhance your versatility and adaptability in other aspects of life. It’s the perfect step towards advanced level courses or a fulfilling career in social care, where you could find yourself working with individuals of different ages, abilities, needs and interests.