Level 3 Counselling Course in Guildford

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Level 3 Counselling Course in Guildford. Evening counselling classes run at Activate Learning Guildford, one evening a week over a year. This level 3 counselling qualification builds on existing counselling skills, deepening your understanding of counselling theory and agency work. It is free if you are 16 to 18 years old. If you are 19 or over, an Advanced Learner Loan may be available to cover the cost. You will need a CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills, or a recognised face-to-face equivalent of at least 75 guided learning hours, to join.

Who this course is for

This counselling course is intended for those who want to take the next step in training to become a counsellor, who have already acquired counselling skills, and learn more about counselling theory and agency work. The awarding organisation for this course is NCFE. This qualification is eligible in England for Advanced Learner Loans (19+).. For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk

Entry requirements

You will need a CPCAB level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills or a recognised face to face equivalent qualification of at least 75 Guided Learning Hours. Following application to the course candidates will be contacted by a member of the counselling team to ensure that those joining are able to meet the academic and emotional demands of the course.. For further information please visit the Actiate Learning Website at https://www.activatelearning.ac.uk

What you will learn

  • You'll develop your understanding of counselling theory and how it applies in practice.
  • You'll explore how counselling agencies operate and the role of the counsellor within them.
  • You'll build your ability to use counselling skills in structured, supported settings.
  • You'll examine ethical frameworks and professional boundaries in counselling.
  • You'll reflect on your own development as a practitioner through self-awareness work.
  • You'll learn how to work with clients presenting a range of emotional and personal issues.

How you will learn

Classes are delivered face to face at the centre on an evening timetable. Assessment includes written assignments, reflective practice journals, and observed skills practice. The counselling team will assess your academic and emotional readiness before the course begins. You will also take part in group work and discussion as part of your learning.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Activate Learning Guildford will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Counsellor: work with clients in private practice or agency settings.
  • Support worker: provide emotional and practical support to vulnerable adults.
  • Care assistant: support individuals in residential or community care.
  • Youth support worker: work with young people facing personal challenges.
  • Teaching assistant: support learners with social, emotional, or mental health needs.
  • SEN teaching assistant: assist pupils with special educational needs in school.
  • Adult educator: teach or facilitate learning in community or further education settings.

What you could study next

  • Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling: the next step toward practising as a qualified counsellor, covering advanced theory and supervised client work.
  • Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling: for those aiming to work at a higher clinical level.
  • BACP membership: once you have sufficient supervised practice hours, you can apply for professional accreditation with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.

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