Courses

Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care Level 3

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  • Course Type
    16-19 Courses
  • Course Code
    HS302
  • Campus
    Twelve Quays
  • Start Date
    7th Sep
  • Level
    Level 3
  • Duration
    1 year

This Level 3 course is designed for learners who are ready to progress beyond Level 2 and develop the knowledge and skills required for a career in health and social care.

It builds a deeper understanding of professional practice and prepares learners for employment, apprenticeships, or further study. The qualification also carries UCAS points, supporting progression to higher education to foundation degree.

  • Course Details

    Learners explore key areas including effective professional communication, equality, diversity and inclusive practice, and their own personal and professional development. The course develops a strong understanding of the role of the social care worker, alongside essential responsibilities such as safeguarding, duty of care, health and safety, and handling sensitive information.

    With a strong emphasis on person-centred approaches, learners gain the skills and confidence to provide high-quality care, supporting individuals with dignity, respect and compassion in a range of real-world settings.

  • Entry Guidelines
    • You will need 4 GCSE's at Grade 3 or above. One of the 4 GCSE's to be Maths. You will also require English Language at Grade 4 (or Functional Skill level 2) to study at this level.
    • Satisfactory DBS.

    If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.

  • Where can I progress to?

    Employment or Higher Education.

  • Timetable

    You'll be based at our modern Twelve Quays Campus, for four days each week, from September to July. If required, the course will take part in your Early Years and Education studies alongside your GCSE Maths and English Language lessons.

    You will also spend one day a week in a work placement relevant to your course, gaining valuable real-world experience as you build the skills and knowledge for your future. You will receive your individual timetable at the start of your course.

  • Equipment Required

    To learn effectively on your course you will need to use certain items of equipment and undertake particular activities as part of your studies.

    To further enhance your learning experience the following will be required:

    • Uniform
    • Disclosure and Barring Service Check Certificate

    If you need support with these costs, don't worry, click on the link below and complete a bursary application form. https://www.wmc.ac.uk/student-support/financial-support/bursaries-loans

    Equipment purchased will be yours to keep and you will be able to use them for practice at home and in your future career.

  • Assessment Methods

    You will be assessed by assignments and workbooks. These assignments may include practical activities on placement.

Related Careers

Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.

I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.

I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.

Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.

I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.