Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma: Health and Social Care Course in Bristol. Classes run full-time at Ashley Down Centre, five days a week during the day. The course takes one year to complete. It's designed for people who have some qualifications but not enough to go straight to university. You'll build the subject knowledge and academic study skills that universities expect. Previous students have gone on to study nursing, midwifery, and other health and social care degrees. The Ascentis Access to Higher Education Diploma is recognised by UK universities as a route into degree-level study.
Who this course is for
The Access to HE course is a one-year, full-time, Level 3 course specifically designed to enable you to develop the knowledge and study skills to progress into Higher Education.--You may already have some qualifications at GCSE, NVQ, BTEC or A level but not enough to get to university.--The Access course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to achieve your goal. You need to be very committed to study and focused on your career choice. Previous students have gone on to study: Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Paramedic Science, Early Childhood Studies and Care Practice.
Entry requirements
--GCSE Maths and English at Grade C or above--Strong desire to study--Commitment to study full time for a year--Knowledge of course required at university--Good organisation, enthusiasm and motivation--Approximately 12 months experience of working in a he
What you will learn
You'll develop academic study skills needed for university-level learning.
You'll build knowledge of health and social care relevant to degree-level study.
You'll practise research, critical thinking, and essay writing.
You'll explore topics that underpin nursing, midwifery, and social care degrees.
You'll strengthen your ability to manage independent study and meet deadlines.
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom at Ashley Down Centre, full-time across the academic year. Assessment is through coursework and assignments rather than formal exams. You'll complete units that build your subject knowledge and academic skills progressively, with tutor support throughout. The Ascentis Access to Higher Education Diploma is recognised by UK universities as meeting standard entry requirements.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Ashley Down Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support adults in residential or home care settings.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Mental health support worker: work alongside mental health teams.
Social care worker: support vulnerable adults or children in the community.
Senior care assistant: step into a team leader role after gaining experience.
What you could study next
BSc Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, or Children's): the most common next step for graduates of this Diploma, with many universities accepting it as a standard entry qualification.
BSc Social Work: university degree leading to a registered social worker career.
BSc Midwifery: for those who want to pursue a clinical pathway in maternity care.
Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care: a shorter higher education route if a full degree isn't the right fit yet.
