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Free Level 3 Counselling Course in Manchester

CostFREE
Duration31 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Counselling Course in Manchester. Classes run at Hopwood Hall College Middleton Campus, part-time during the day. The course runs for 31 weeks, giving you time to build your understanding alongside other commitments. You'll develop the core skills used in counselling practice, including listening, communication, and supporting people through difficult situations. This counselling qualification opens doors to roles in care, education, and support services.

Who this course is for

Discover our range of courses at Hopwood Hall College, with entry requirements, progression and course information.

Entry requirements

Discover our range of courses at Hopwood Hall College, with entry requirements, progression and course information.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop active listening and communication skills used in counselling sessions.
  • You'll explore key counselling theories and how they apply in practice.
  • You'll learn how to build and maintain a supportive relationship with a client.
  • You'll understand personal and professional boundaries in a counselling context.
  • You'll examine ethical frameworks that guide counselling practice.
  • You'll reflect on your own values and how they affect your work with others.
  • You'll develop skills for supporting people experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Hopwood Hall College Middleton Campus. Teaching combines discussion, group work, and reflective practice. Assessment is through written assignments and skills observations that demonstrate your understanding and practical ability. You'll also keep a reflective journal to track your development throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Hopwood Hall College Middleton Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Support worker. Helping adults or young people with emotional and practical needs.
  • Care assistant. Supporting individuals in residential or community care settings.
  • Youth support worker. Working with young people facing personal or social challenges.
  • Teaching assistant. Supporting pupils, including those with additional needs.
  • SEN teaching assistant. Working with students who need specialist learning support.
  • Adult educator. Facilitating learning for adults in community or college settings.
  • Counselling. Entry-level counselling roles or voluntary counselling work while training further.

What you could study next

A Level 3 counselling qualification is often a stepping stone toward further study. You could progress to a Level 4 or Level 5 Diploma in Counselling or Psychotherapy, which is typically required to practise as a qualified counsellor. Some learners go on to a degree in Counselling, Psychology, or Social Work. If you're interested in education or care, a Level 3 or Level 4 qualification in Health and Social Care or Education and Training is another option worth exploring.

Apply on hopwood.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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