Professional Practice in Health and Social Care Foundation Degree in Slough. Classes run at Slough and Langley College, full-time during the day, over 36 weeks. This is a work-based qualification, so you study while working at least 2.5 days a week in a relevant care setting. Module assignments are designed around your professional role, so your learning connects directly to your day-to-day work. To join, you'll need a Level 3 qualification in a work-related area, GCSE English Language and Maths at grade C (grade 4) or above, and at least two years' experience in a relevant care setting.
Who this course is for
Gain a foundation degree while working in a relevant health, social or community care role, helping you to advance your career in primary or secondary care. Foundation Degrees (FdA) are particularly appropriate for students considering returning to learning after a break, or those who have not gained their qualifications through the traditional school-based route. This vocational award is a work-based course, and the module assignments and lessons are designed to benefit your professional development. You will build upon your experience through modules in areas such as; Developing the Role of the Reflective Practitioner, Fundamentals of Anatomy, Play and Creative Arts, and Mental Health and Wellbeing. This Foundation Degree is validated by the University of West London.
Entry requirements
You must be working at least 2.5 days a week in a relevant care setting, and are expected to have obtained: An NQF Level 3 qualification in a work-related area; GCSE English Language at a grade C (grade 4) or above; GCSE Maths at a grade C (grade 4) or above; At least 2 years’ experience of working within a relevant setting. Any candidate who does not fully meet the entry criteria is invited to submit their application, which will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
What you will learn
You'll develop your understanding of professional practice in health, social, or community care settings.
You'll explore how policy and legislation shape care delivery.
You'll analyse approaches to supporting individuals with complex needs.
You'll apply reflective practice to your own professional development.
You'll examine partnership working across health and social care services.
You'll build skills in academic writing and evidence-based practice.
How you will learn
You'll attend classroom sessions at Slough and Langley College alongside completing work-based assignments linked to your care role. Assessment is through written assignments and module coursework. Your workplace experience forms a core part of the course, and assignments are designed to draw on your professional practice directly.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Slough and Langley College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant. Support individuals in residential or community care settings.
Senior care worker. Take on supervisory responsibility within a care team.
Support worker. Work with adults or children with complex needs.
Community care coordinator. Organise care packages for clients in the community.
Health care assistant. Support clinical staff in primary or secondary care.
Social care team leader. Lead a small team delivering frontline care services.
What you could study next
BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care. A top-up degree lets you convert your Foundation Degree into a full honours degree, usually in one further year of study.
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care. Suited to those moving into management roles within care services.
Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship. For those working in a health setting who want to qualify as a registered nurse while remaining employed.
