Working in adult social care offers a rewarding path for those passionate about supporting others. This qualification focuses on the essential knowledge needed to thrive in the sector, from understanding key principles of communication and safeguarding to developing person-centred approaches in care settings. You’ll gain insight into the practicalities of working with adults who require support in various aspects of their daily lives, whether due to age, disability, or long-term health conditions. With a clear focus on the importance of dignity, respect, and empathy, this course builds the foundation for a meaningful and impactful career in adult social care.
You must have achieved the following qualifications and criteria to enrol onto this course:
A successful DBS clearance and one of the following:
- Possess a relevant Level 2 or have experience of working
- Volunteering within the Health and Social Care sector
| Study level | Cost | Additional fees |
|---|---|---|
| 19+ | Please enquire | You will be required to purchase your own stationery and you may also be required to contribute to pay for trips and visits. |
You will be taught using a range of teaching techniques including classroom delivered sessions, interactive workshops and self-study. Most teaching will take place in the classroom, with some opportunities for you to access online learning. You will also undertake a placement (voluntary or paid) to gain vital experience and to inform your learning.
Assessment methods include; formal written tasks; presentations; independent learning; poster presentation; case studies. You will compile a portfolio to demonstrate your learning of subject knowledge and transferable key skills and undertake a set assessment.
English and Maths are important life skills that will help you to achieve your best in your studies and progress to your future career.
If you have not already achieved grade 9-4 in GCSE Maths and/ or English at school, we will support you to improve your skills.
As part of the assessment criteria you will be required to attend placement in a real work environment to support their learning. The minimum required number of placement hours is 75 hours. This can be voluntary or paid, but must be within a relevant health and/or social care setting. If you are already employed within the sector you don’t need to undertake an additional placement.
We have a number of links to industry including relationships with Mind, Parkinson’s Group, NHS, Sunderland Care and Support, Sunderland Home Care Association, Bluebird Care, University of Sunderland, University of Cumbria as well as a number of local charitable organisations to ensure you gain an outstanding learning experience with us and are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to progress to a career in industry.
Thursday Evening 6pm - 9pm
The aim of this programme is to provide you with an in-depth knowledge of core subject areas within health and social care while developing your skills and understanding to support progression into Higher Education or the workplace.
You will study nine core modules including:
- Equality, diversity and rights in health and social care
- Human growth and development
- Safeguarding in health and social care
- Communication in health and social care
- Infection prevention and control in health and social care
- Psychological perspectives in health and social care
- Sociological perspectives in health and social care
- Working in health and social care
- Reflective practice
Upon completing this qualification, students can either enter the health and social care sector, working in roles such as support workers, care assistants, or other frontline positions. For those wanting to further their studies, pathways include an HNC/D in Healthcare Practice or an FD in Working with Children and Families. Alternatively, students may choose to pursue a university degree in fields like Health and Social Care, Nursing, or a related specialist area, opening doors to more advanced roles and opportunities in the sector.
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