Level 3 Counselling Course in Keighley – Keighley College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Level 3 Counselling Course in Keighley. Classes run at Keighley College, part-time during the day. If you're 16 to 18 years old, the course is free. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though a Learner Loan may be available to help with costs. The course runs over one year and covers the counselling skills, personal development, and knowledge needed to offer emotional support in a range of roles. It suits anyone looking to progress to a Level 4 counselling qualification or to work in a supportive capacity.

Who this course is for

This course is for 19+ learners only. Anyone who is interested in progressing onto the Level 4 course to become a fully qualified counsellor and become BACP accredited, or anyone wants to work in a supportive role using the skills, personal development and knowledge required to offer emotional support in similar roles.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop core counselling skills including active listening and empathy.
  • You'll explore theories and models of counselling and how they apply in practice.
  • You'll learn how to build and maintain a supportive relationship with a client.
  • You'll reflect on your own personal development and how it shapes your practice.
  • You'll understand professional and ethical boundaries in counselling and support work.
  • You'll gain knowledge of mental health, wellbeing, and emotional resilience.
  • You'll practise skills through role-play and supervised counselling activities.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Keighley College, combining taught input with group discussion and skills practice. Assessment includes written assignments, reflective journals, and observed skills practice. You'll build a portfolio of evidence throughout the year to demonstrate your competence and understanding.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Counselling support worker: assist qualified counsellors in community or charity settings.
  • Support worker: provide emotional and practical support to vulnerable adults.
  • Care assistant: offer person-centred care using counselling communication skills.
  • Youth support worker: support young people's emotional health and wellbeing.
  • SEN teaching assistant: use counselling skills to support pupils with additional needs.
  • Teaching assistant: help learners who need emotional or pastoral support in school.
  • Adult educator: deliver personal development or wellbeing programmes to adults.

What you could study next

  • Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling: the next step if you want to become a fully qualified counsellor and work toward BACP accreditation. Most training routes require a Level 3 counselling qualification before entry.
  • Level 3 Award in Mental Health: broadens your understanding of mental health and complements counselling skills in support roles.
  • Level 3 Health and Social Care Diploma: opens routes into care management and senior support roles.

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