Level 3 Adult course in Health and Social care

Get on the career ladder with First Rung

The First Rung Adult Skills Programme provides opportunities for unemployed adults to undertake a rewarding career in helping and supporting others. Participants undertake the Level 3 Certificate in Health and Social Care which is designed for people who are looking to work with clients of any age in health and social care. This qualification is suitable for a range of different career paths in settings such as:

  • Day centres

  • Children’s centres

  • Health centres

  • Supported accommodation

  • Respite care

  • Residential schools

  • Special education needs schools

  • Residential care homes

  • Nursing homes

Career and progression opportunities

The qualification supports candidates in progressing to a range of roles in the health and social care sector including:

· Care Support Workers in adult residential settings

· Healthcare Assistants in community, primary care and acute health environments

· Care Support Workers in domiciliary services, supported living or day services.

· Special educational needs support workers.

· Community-based Support Workers

Candidates who achieve the level 3 certificate can also undertake the Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care which enables them to progress to higher education.

Course content and assessment

Learners must complete and pass 9 mandatory units which cover the following areas:

  • 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

  • Psychological perspectives in health and social care

  • Sociological perspectives in health and social care

  • Working in health and social care

  • Reflective practice

All mandatory units are graded A-D with one unit being marked externally

Eligibility

To qualify for the programme, candidates must be unemployed or earning less than the London living wage (£13.85). They must have good reading and writing skills and be capable of achieving Functional Skills English at level 2.

Programme duration

The programme has a duration of up to 12 months.

Joining the programme

If you would like to join the programme or find out more, please contact please contact Beverley Woodhouse on 07805 980150 / marketing@firstrung.org.uk

  • Yes, you can pursue Health & Social Care without GCSEs. Here's how:

    1. Screening Assessment

      : You'll complete a screening assessment during your interview to evaluate your current skills and knowledge.

    2. Maths and English Courses

      : You can enrol in maths and English courses at First Rung while studying for your Level 2 Health and Social Care qualification.

    This pathway allows you to start your Health & Social Care training and work towards gaining essential qualifications simultaneously.

  • With a health and social care qualification, you can pursue various roles across healthcare, social services, and community support. Here are some common job opportunities:

    1. Care Worker

      : Providing personal care and support to individuals in residential homes, nursing homes, or their own homes.

    2. Support Worker

      : Assisting individuals with disabilities, mental health issues, or learning difficulties to live independently.

    3. Healthcare Assistant

      : Supporting nurses and doctors in hospitals, clinics, or community settings.

    4. Social Worker

      : Working with vulnerable individuals and families to provide support, advice, and protection.

    5. Youth Worker

      : Supporting young people through social, educational, and recreational activities.

    6. Community Support Worker

      : Assisting individuals and families with accessing community resources and services.

    7. Residential Support Worker

      : Working in residential care settings to support residents with daily activities and personal care.

    8. Mental Health Support Worker

      : Assisting individuals with mental health conditions in managing their daily lives and accessing treatment.

    Further education and specialisation can lead to advanced roles such as nursing, social work, or therapeutic practices.