About the course

In 1948, the NHS was created by the then minister of health, Aneurin Bevan, the core principle was to meet the health needs of everybody, this is still the principle today. The NHS is the heart of the nation, and is the envy of other countries around the world. This beloved institution would not be what it is today without the amazing workforce. In 1949, there were 68,013 registered nurses and 5,637 midwives in hospitals in England and Wales. That number has now grown to more than 758,000 in 2022. Social care is also significantly expanding with a rise in the ageing population and various homecare services. The growth is so substantial that the government is investing £36 billion to reform the NHS and Social Care sectors. Due to the demand more recruitment is needed to fill the employment gaps.

The Health and Social Care programme at Burnley College will enable you to develop the knowledge and skills which meet the requirements of higher education and apprenticeship programmes. This bridges the shortage of workers highlighted by the government.  In addition to classroom based learning, you  will gain first hand experience in the sector through industry placements, seeing first hand the value and impact of services on individuals, families and communities.We have invested into our new state of the art building which has been designed specifically for health and social care students. Within this sustainable  building is a designated simulation suite that boasts the latest technology, this includes an anatomage table, two life-size fully functional manikins and a simulation ward including a scrubs area to enhance the learning experience.

There is the opportunity to join the nursing CADET scheme; this aims to support NHS recruitment and our future health workforce.  With 40% of NHS staff due to retire in the next 10-15 years, and only 6% of NHS staff being under the age of 26, it is imperative that we provide a comprehensive starting point qualification to support growth in this sector. 

Start Date/s

02/09/2024, 02/09/2024, 02/09/2024, 02/09/2024, 02/09/2024, 02/09/2024, 02/09/2024, 02/09/2024, 02/09/2024

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade 5 or above in a good range of subjects including English Language and Mathematics OR a relevant Level 2 Diploma with a Merit grade or above and a GCSE at grade 5 in English Language and Mathematics. This course is subject to a cleared enhanced DBS check. The Cadet Programme requires a GCSE in English Language and Mathematics at grade 5, an interview by the East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust and a Health Screening Check and is subject to a cleared enhanced DBS check.

Modules

Mandatory units include: Communication, Equality Diversity and Rights, Sociology, Psychology, Human Growth and Development, Infection Prevention and Control and Reflective Practice. On progression to the second year, learners choose from a range of optional units which enable them to pursue an interest in specialist subject areas such as Social Care, Health Sciences and Health Studies. Learners also complete a range of placements to gain valuable experience within the sector.

Assessment

You are assessed through a range of different methods; direct observation in the workplace, portfolio evidence, written assignments, posters, professional discussions, presentations and leaflets. You will also undertake two external assessments, set and marked by the awarding body at the end of each year to assess knowledge and understanding. Placement feedback also provides an assessment of practice and application of theory to practice. These workplace assessments will contribute significantly to the achievement of your overall qualification.

Careers & Progression

The programme is designed to enable you to access Higher Education and will also support your progression into the workplace. Upon achievement of this qualification, you will be able to access Higher Education and progress into a wide range of job roles within the health and social care sector such as: 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 Community-Based Support Workers. Completion of this qualification will equip you with the essential knowledge and skills required to progress to Higher Education in a related field of study (depending on specific university entry requirements*). The health or social pathway in the second year includes optional units that enable you to pursue an interest in specialist subject areas. Possible options for degree courses on completion of the qualification; Adult nursing, Children’s Nursing, Midwifery, Paramedic science, Social work, Primary teaching, Mental Health nursing and many more.

Additional Details