Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker Course in Paignton – South Devon College

Cost£3,002.00
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start24 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Course in Paignton. Classes run at South Devon College, part-time during the day.

You must already work in the care sector to join. The course builds on your existing knowledge and skills. You'll study mandatory units covering both knowledge and practical competency. You can also choose optional specialist areas that match your role. The course takes around one year to complete.

You'll finish with an NCFE Technical Occupational Entry in Senior Healthcare Support Diploma.

Who this course is for

If you're already working in healthcare or looking to step into a Senior Healthcare Support Worker role, the Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support at South Devon College will help you develop the skills and recognition you need to progress. This nationally-recognised occupational qualification is designed for those delivering high-quality, compassionate care alongside registered healthcare professionals. Whether you're supporting clinical, therapeutic or diagnostic procedures, this course equips you to confidently meet the demands of today’s health services. You’ll be supported throughout by a qualified Trainer Facilitator/Assessor, who will guide your learning through one-to-one tutorials and on-the-job observations, arranged with you and your employer. This flexible, work-based approach ensures your development is rooted in real-world practice, giving you the tools to grow professionally without stepping away from your current role. Upon successful completion, you can progress to higher education programmes, including: FdSc Assistant Practitioner in Healthcare FdSc Nursing Associate Other health or social care-related degrees at University Centre South Devon, provided entry requirements are met. This course may be fully funded for learners aged 19+ who have lived in the UK for at least three years (excluding those in devolved regions or currently on apprenticeships). Click here (??) for funding details

Entry requirements

You will require good literacy and IT skills, You must already be working in the care sector and have undertaken study or continuous professional development within the last 5 years

What you will learn

  • You'll develop the knowledge needed for senior healthcare support roles.
  • You'll build competency in clinical and care skills relevant to your workplace.
  • You'll study mandatory units covering core healthcare knowledge.
  • You'll choose optional specialist units that reflect your area of practice.
  • You'll learn how to support patients safely and effectively.
  • You'll develop your understanding of professional responsibilities in healthcare settings.

How you will learn

You'll attend daytime classes at South Devon College. Learning combines classroom study with workplace practice. Assessment covers both knowledge and skills competencies. You'll complete mandatory units and chosen specialist units. Assessment methods reflect the requirements of the NCFE qualification, including written and practical evidence from your workplace.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Healthcare Assistant, supports patients in hospitals or community settings.
  • Senior Healthcare Support Worker, takes on greater responsibility within a care team.
  • Assistant Practitioner, works under the supervision of registered clinicians.
  • Clinical Support Worker, assists with clinical procedures and patient care.
  • Community Healthcare Support Worker, delivers care to patients in their own homes.

What you could study next

  • Level 4 Associate Practitioner qualification, for those wanting to move into a more advanced clinical support role.
  • Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care, a stepping stone toward registered practitioner status.
  • Nursing Associate apprenticeship, for those working toward a registered nursing role.

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