Free Level 3 Mental Health: Individuals and Society Course in Birmingham. Classes run at John Henry Newman Catholic College. This two-year, full-time daytime course explores the factors that shape mental health, from individual lifestyle and environment to wider social influences. You'll examine how communities and services support mental wellbeing, and develop a grounded understanding of mental health across society. To enrol, you'll need at least grade 4 in GCSE English and/or Maths, plus four other grade 4+ GCSEs.
Who this course is for
Mental Health is a topic that is at the forefront of our society. By studying the AAQ in Mental Health you can gain a deeper understanding into the different factors that affect our mental health as well as how we can support individuals and the wider community to maintain our mental wellbeing. There are many factors that affect our everyday life which can influence (both positively and negatively) our mental health. These factors range from an individual's lifestyle to their environment as well as the people that surround them.
You will look deeper into these different factors as well as look at strategies to promote a healthy lifestyle and maintain good mental health and well being. This qualification goes hand in hand with our other social sciences as it pulls together parts of Psychology, Sociology and Health and Social Care to focus on one of the most important topics in today’s world.
What you will learn
You'll explore the biological, psychological, and social factors that affect mental health.
You'll examine how lifestyle and environment influence wellbeing, both positively and negatively.
You'll study how individuals and communities can maintain and support mental wellbeing.
You'll analyse how society responds to mental health, including support systems and services.
You'll develop knowledge of mental health conditions and how they affect daily life.
You'll consider ethical and social issues surrounding mental health care and policy.
How you will learn
This is a classroom-based course delivered full-time over two years. Assessment is through a combination of coursework and externally assessed components, as set by OCR for the Cambridge Advanced National qualification. You'll build your understanding through structured lessons, research tasks, and written assignments.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. John Henry Newman Catholic College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Mental health support worker: assist people managing mental health conditions
Care assistant: support individuals in residential or community settings
Healthcare assistant: entry-level clinical support in NHS or private care
Youth worker: support young people's emotional and social wellbeing
Community support worker: help vulnerable adults live independently
Social care worker: provide practical and emotional support to service users
What you could study next
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care (e.g. BTEC) - broadens your knowledge across health and care sectors, strengthening university applications.
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions) - a one-year course recognised by UK universities, designed for those aiming for degrees in nursing, psychology, or social work.
Degree in Psychology, Mental Health Nursing, or Social Work - the natural next step if you want to work professionally in mental health services.
