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Free Level 3 Counselling Course in Ashton-under-Lyne – Tameside College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start17 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyABC awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Counselling Course in Ashton-under-Lyne. Classes run at Tameside College, part-time during the day, one day a week over a year. This counselling qualification covers the theory and practice of counselling skills across four units: understanding the context for counselling skills, counselling theory, using counselling skills in practice, and personal development. You'll build a range of interpersonal skills and deepen your self-awareness. To enrol, you'll need to have completed a Level 2 Award in Counselling Concepts (or equivalent) and have Functional Skills English at Level 1, or ESOL Level 2. You'll also attend an interview with subject teachers.

Who this course is for

This is a 1-year part-time programme which covers a range of topics relating to the theory and practice of using counselling skills. It develops a repertoire of interpersonal skills and counselling skills, promotes personal growth, and provides essential industry knowledge to help learners make informed career decisions. You will study four different units:

  • Understanding the context for the use of counselling skills
  • Understanding counselling theory
  • Using counselling skills
  • Personal development for users of counselling skills

Entry requirements

Learners should have already completed the Level 2 Award in Counselling Concepts (or equivalent) including face-to-face skills practice and, to meet with the academic demands of assessment, have at least functional skills level 1 in English, or should be at ESOL level 2 standard. Learners will be interviewed by the subject teachers and must demonstrate the emotional maturity to undertake experiential learning and self-awareness exercises, which will be demanding of the self in interaction with o

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the context in which counselling skills are used, including ethical and professional frameworks.
  • You'll study key counselling theories and how they inform practice.
  • You'll practise using counselling skills in face-to-face settings.
  • You'll develop a range of interpersonal communication skills.
  • You'll reflect on your own personal growth and self-awareness through experiential learning.
  • You'll build the knowledge to make informed decisions about a career in counselling or a related field.

How you will learn

Learning takes place in the classroom through a mix of taught sessions, group discussion, and experiential exercises. Assessment is unit-based and includes written assignments and reflective work. You'll take part in skills practice with other learners, which forms a core part of the course. Personal reflection and self-awareness exercises are built into the programme throughout the year.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Support worker: using counselling skills to support vulnerable adults
  • Care assistant: providing emotional and practical support in care settings
  • Youth support worker: working with young people in community or school settings
  • SEN teaching assistant: supporting pupils with additional needs in schools
  • Teaching assistant: assisting in classroom learning environments
  • Adult educator: delivering learning programmes to adult learners
  • Counselling: entry-level roles in counselling services or charities

What you could study next

  • Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling: the next step if you want to practise as a counsellor. Most training organisations require Level 3 before entry.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care: broadens your options across care and support roles.
  • Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training: if you're interested in moving into teaching or adult education.
Apply on tameside.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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