Level 1 Health and Care Course in Wigan – Wigan 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 Wigan. Classes run at Wigan 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 covers the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to work or progress in health and social care. You'll explore the care environment, develop employability skills, and build an understanding of professional values. The course runs for around 30 weeks. There are no formal entry requirements, just an interest in the course.

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 explore how health and social care services are organised and delivered.
  • You'll develop an understanding of person-centred care and individual needs.
  • You'll learn about safeguarding, dignity, and duty of care.
  • You'll build communication skills used in care settings.
  • You'll develop employability skills relevant to health and care roles.
  • You'll gain an understanding of professional values and behaviours in the sector.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions and practical activities. Tutors work with you throughout the course. Assessment is ongoing and may include assignments, observations, and portfolio work. At the start of the course, you'll have an individual assessment so your learning plan can be tailored to your needs and goals.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant, supporting people with daily living in care homes or at home.
  • Support worker, helping individuals with physical or learning disabilities.
  • Healthcare assistant, working alongside clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
  • Home care worker, providing personal care and companionship in people's homes.
  • Residential care worker, supporting adults in supported living environments.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Care, the next step for those moving into paid care roles.
  • Level 2 Health and Social Care qualification, broadening your knowledge across both sectors.
  • Functional Skills English or Maths at Level 1 or Level 2, useful for further study or apprenticeship applications.
  • An apprenticeship in adult care, combining work and study toward a recognised standard.

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