Free Level 1 Health and Social Care Course in Birmingham – James Watt College

CostFREE
Duration20 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start21 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings Course in Birmingham. Classes run at James Watt College, with daytime sessions designed to fit around other commitments. You'll need to be working at Entry Level 3 in Literacy or ESOL to join; numeracy at that level is also helpful. Over 20 weeks, this introduction to health, social care and children's and young people's settings covers the key roles and responsibilities across these sectors. It's a solid starting point if you're considering work in care or with children.

Who this course is for

This introductory course is perfect for adults aged 19+ who are considering a career in health, social care, or working with children and young people. You�ll explore the key roles and responsibilities within these sectors and begin to build the knowledge and confidence needed to take your next steps.

Entry requirements

You should be aged 19 or over and working at Entry Level 3 in Literacy/ESOL (essential) and Numeracy (desired).

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the key roles within health, social care, and children's and young people's settings.
  • You'll learn about the responsibilities of workers in these sectors.
  • You'll develop knowledge of how care settings operate and who they support.
  • You'll examine the values and principles that guide work in health and social care.
  • You'll build understanding of how to work with children and young people safely and appropriately.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at James Watt College. Assessment is through coursework and written tasks completed during the course. There are no formal exams. Your tutor will guide you through each topic in class, and you'll build a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate what you've learned.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. James Watt College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: entry-level support role in residential or home care
  • Nursery assistant: supporting children's learning and daily routines
  • Playworker: working with children in after-school or holiday settings
  • Healthcare support worker: assisting clinical staff in care settings
  • Early years helper: supporting qualified staff in nursery or pre-school
  • Youth support worker: working with young people in community settings

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Certificate in Health and Social Care: builds directly on this introduction and is recognised for entry-level care roles.
  • Level 2 Award in Childcare and Education: a next step toward nursery and early years work.
  • Level 2 Functional Skills English: strengthens your literacy and supports entry to further health and care qualifications.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care: the qualification many employers require for senior care roles.

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