HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE - LEVEL 3 CERTIFICATE (SEPT 2025 START)
Duration: 1 year
Level: Level 3
The wider health sector is the second largest employer in Lancashire with Health and Social Care specifically being identified as a priority sector for the region.
This Level 3 qualification provides natural progression for those who have successfully achieved a Level 2 qualification in Health and Social Care and provides the opportunity to develop higher level skills in a range of modules from Safeguarding and Protection to Psychology, Communication and Infection Control.
Upon successful completion of this course, many learners choose to stay at Preston College to study a one year Access to Higher Education course, the gateway to university degree entry.
Please note: This course starts in September 2025. You may apply now; however, applications will not be processed until enrolments open in April 2025. A course advisor will reach out once we can proceed with your application.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
As part of the Health and Social Care Level 3 course you will study a range of modules, including:
Safeguarding and Protection
Equality, Diversity and Rights
Human Growth and Development
Psychology
Communication Skills
Working in Health and Social Care
Sociology
Reflective Practice
Infection Control
You will also undertake a Level 2 in Customer Service in Health and Social Care to help make you the most employable.
All modules are designed to provide you with the underpinning theory needed for success in your chosen career. Throughout the course you will undertake a variety of practical activities and will be assessed on your knowledge. You will also develop the skills needed to work with a range of clients and will put those skills into practice on two, two week block, 100 hour placements. Your practical skills will be assessed as you demonstrate your readiness to work with clients.
HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT?
As a predominantly classroom based course, you can expect to spend most of your time on the college campus. The course is studied for a period of 36 weeks for 2.5 days a week, with the exception of a two week block placement. The block placement takes place in a practical setting, with a client group of your choice and you can tailor your placement to your chosen career path.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
To successfully complete the course, you will need to complete and pass a range of assignments, projects, health promotion campaigns, reflective practice and group work, as well evidencing your practical skills and readiness to work in settings with clients.
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Many learners who successfully complete this course choose to progress onto the Access to Higher Education: Allied Health Professionals, or Access to Higher Education: Science courses at Preston College.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?
As the majority of your time is spent in college, there is no requirement to purchase a uniform, however, you may wish to purchase a tunic for your work placement and this is recommended. You will also need a range of stationery, including pens, paper, notebooks and folders.
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, with clearance, is required for your work experience placement.
Preston College recognises that costs can be a worry, but did you know that you may be entitled to financial support from the college bursary? Full details will be provided at enrolment, in your Welcome Brochure.
To find out more, watch this short video from tutor Rachel:
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
To join us on the Level 3 programme, ideally you will hold a valid Level 2 qualification in Health and Social Care plus English at level 2. Alternatively, you should have five GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A*-C) or equivalent, including English Language at level 2, plus relevant industry experience.
You will also need a DBS check for any placement activity you undertake.
