Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Health and Social Care) Course in Southend-on-Sea. Classes run at South Essex College Southend Campus, full-time during the day. This one-year course is recognised by UK universities as meeting entry requirements for health and social care degrees, including nursing, social work, and related subjects. You'll need to be aged 19 or over by 31 August 2024, and hold a GCSE grade C/4 or above, or a Level 2 Functional Skills Qualification, in either English Language or Maths. A fee applies for this course.
Who this course is for
This course is ideal if you want to study on a higher education programme in the health and social care sector, such as social work or residential care, but need to gain the required entry qualifications and skills.
Entry requirements
You must be aged 19 or above by the 31st of August 2024.You must have at GCSE C/4 or above in either English Language or Maths, or a Level 2 Functional Skills . If you only hold the one, you may work towards the one that you do not have whilst studying for your Access Diploma; this will be dependent on being accepted onto a Level 2 course, either GCSE or Functional Skills. If you wish to go on to study Midwifery you will also need GCSE Science at grade C or above.
What you will learn
You'll develop understanding of health and social care principles and practice.
You'll study human biology and how the body works in health and illness.
You'll explore social policy and how it shapes care services in the UK.
You'll examine psychological theories relevant to health and social care settings.
You'll build academic writing and research skills needed for university study.
You'll analyse ethical issues and safeguarding in care environments.
You'll develop critical thinking skills to evaluate evidence and arguments.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at South Essex College Southend Campus. Assessment is through assignments and coursework rather than exams, which is the standard approach for Access to HE Diplomas. Work is marked against set criteria and graded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction. These grades contribute to your overall UCAS Tariff points, which universities use when considering your application.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Essex College Southend Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support people in residential or home care settings.
Support worker: assist adults with physical or learning disabilities.
Healthcare assistant: work alongside clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Mental health support worker: provide day-to-day support in mental health services.
Senior care assistant: take on a lead role within a care team.
Domiciliary care worker: deliver personal care to people in their own homes.
What you could study next
This Level 3 Access to HE Diploma (Health and Social Care) qualification is recognised by UK universities as meeting entry requirements for a range of undergraduate degrees.
BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, or Learning Disabilities): the most common next step for those aiming for NHS clinical roles.
BA (Hons) Social Work: required to practise as a qualified social worker.
BSc (Hons) Midwifery: note that GCSE Science at grade C or above is also required for this route.
Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care: a shorter higher education option if a full degree isn't right for you yet.
