Level 1 Health and Care Course in Salford – Salford Skills Centre

CostFREE
Duration30 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyGateway Qualifications awarding body

About this course

Level 1 Health and Care Course in Salford. Classes run at Salford Skills Centre, full-time during the day. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old, or aged 19 to 24 with an Education, the course Plan. Fees may apply otherwise.

The course introduces you to the skills and knowledge needed to work in health, social care, and related roles. You'll explore the care environment, develop employability skills, and learn the behaviours employers look for. The course runs for around 30 weeks.

You'll finish with a Gateway Qualifications Certificate in Health and Care.

Who this course is for

This course is designed for 16 - 18-year-olds who want to develop your knowledge and understanding of the health and care sector while gaining a nationally recognised Gateway Qualifications Level 1 Award or Certificate in Health and Care.

This course provides an introduction to the skills, knowledge and behaviours required for future study and careers in health, social care and related professions. It is designed to help learners build confidence, employability skills and an understanding of the health and care environment.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.

Learners should have an interest in health and care and a willingness to participate in classroom-based learning and practical activities.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of how health and care services are organised and delivered.
  • You'll explore the values and behaviours expected in care settings.
  • You'll learn how to communicate effectively with people who use care services.
  • You'll build an understanding of health, wellbeing, and person-centred care.
  • You'll develop practical employability skills relevant to care roles.
  • You'll gain an introduction to safeguarding and keeping people safe.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Salford Skills Centre. Learning includes group activities, discussions, and practical tasks. There are no formal entry requirements. You'll be assessed through coursework and activities completed during the course. At the start, you'll have an individual assessment so the team can plan the right support for you.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Salford Skills Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant, supports people with daily living in care homes or at home.
  • Support worker, helps individuals with physical, emotional, or social needs.
  • Healthcare assistant, works alongside clinical staff in hospitals or community settings.
  • Home care worker, provides personal care and support in people's own homes.
  • Day centre support worker, assists people attending day services and activities.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Care, the next step toward a career as a care assistant or support worker.
  • Level 2 Health and Social Care qualification, builds on the knowledge gained in this course.
  • Functional Skills English and Maths at Level 1 or Level 2, useful for further study or employment.
  • Apprenticeship in Adult Care, lets you earn while you learn in a care role.