Health and Social Care

On this course you’ll acquire essential skills and knowledge that will prepare you for a range of paths within healthcare. There are many opportunities, from hands-on roles to further education and your journey starts here. This qualification and the experience you’ll gain from the course will make you desirable to dental practices. Many of our previous students have moved straight into dental nursing positions.

For this course you’ll need:

• three National 5 qualifications, or a relevant National 5 course such as Health and Social Care
• to possibly attend an interview and complete a short 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 6 and have life/work experience, skills and qualities relevant to the care sector we may also consider you for a place  

*Students may be required to 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:

• decontamination: look at the meticulous processes for ensuring cleanliness and hygiene in medical settings
• first aid: acquire first aid skills that are fundamental in emergency situations and will make you a valuable asset in any healthcare team
• health and safety: understand the protocols and procedures that ensure a safe and healthy environment for both patients and healthcare professionals
• dental anatomy: gain a knowledge of dental structures, laying the foundation for a profound
• dental patient care: develop skills to provide compassionate and effective care to dental patients, adopting a patient centred approach
• clinical assessment: learn how to evaluate and diagnose patients' dental conditions for effective treatment planning
• instruments, materials and equipment: learn how to handle dental instruments and materials safely and precisely

You'll develop transferable, essential skills such as communication, numeracy, ICT, teamwork and problem solving which can be applied in all aspects of life, learning and work.

On completion of this course, you may:

• progress to a PDA in Dental Nursing and SVQ 3 in Dental Nursing (while working as a trainee dental nurse)
• progress to NC Higher Health and Social Care or HNC Healthcare Practice

On this course you’ll learn about the practical applications of dental care and develop a skill set that are sought after in any healthcare setting. You’ll get the opportunity to hear from dental and oral health professionals gaining valuable insights. Our expert staff will deliver the course in a way that’s easy to understand and our student focused learning environment will ensure you get all the support you need.