Prepare to Care

Summary

Are you driven by empathy and compassion, and eager to make a meaningful impact in the health and social care sector? The Prepare to Care Programme offers comprehensive training and qualifications that equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in this rewarding field.

This 6-week programme, held at the Health and Social Care Career Academy at Bickerstaffe House, is designed for individuals who are passionate about working with people and making a difference in their lives.

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
28 Apr 2025
Community Based
10 Weeks
09 Sep 2025
Community Based
20 Jan 2026
Community Based

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

The Prepare to Care Programme opens doors to a variety of rewarding careers in the health and social care sector. Whether you are taking your first step towards a long-term career goal or seeking to enhance your qualifications for immediate employment, this programme provides a solid foundation for your professional journey.

Graduates of the Prepare to Care Programme can pursue careers in various settings, including residential care homes, hospitals, community care, and mental health services. The qualifications you gain will enable you to work in roles such as healthcare assistant, support worker, and personal care assistant.

For those looking to further their education and career prospects, the programme offers a pathway to advanced qualifications, including:

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PATHWAY

  • NCFE L2 CERT PERSONAL CARE NEEDS
  • NCFE L2 CERT PRINCIPLES OF THE PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF INFECTION IN HEALTH CARE SETTINGS
  • NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING MEDICATION HEALTH SOCIAL CARE
  • NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING DIGNITY AND SAFEGUARDING

DEMENTIA PATHWAY

  • NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING BEHAVIOUR THAT CHALLENGES
  • NCFE L2 AWARD AWARENESS OF DEMENTIA
  • NCFE L3 CERT UNDERSTANDING THE PRINCIPLES OF DEMENTIA CARE

MENTAL HEALTH PATHWAY

  • NCFE L1 AWARD MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
  • NCFE L1 AWARD ALCOHOL AWARENESS
  • NCFE L1 AWARD STRESS AWARENESS
  • NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE
  • NCFE L2 CERT MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
  • NCFE L3 CERT UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH

WORKING IN HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE

  • NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING PERSONAL CARE NEEDS
  • NCFE L3 DIP ADULT CARE

WORKING IN MENTAL HEALTH

  • NCFE L2 CERT MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
  • NCFE L3 CERT UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH

Next steps at B&FC

On successful completion of the Prepare to Care Programme, students can progress to several courses within the Health and Social Care Pathway at Blackpool and The Fylde College. These include:

  • HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PATHWAY
  • DEMENTIA PATHWAY
  • MENTAL HEALTH PATHWAY
  • WORKING IN HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE
  • WORKING IN MENTAL HEALTH

Employment Opportunities

Upon completing the Prepare to Care Programme and moving directly into employment:

  • Healthcare Assistant
  • Support Worker
  • Personal Care Assistant
  • Residential Care Worker
  • Community Care Worker
  • Mental Health Support Worker
  • Dementia Care Assistant
  • Home Care Assistant
  • Social Care Worker
  • Rehabilitation Assistant

These roles are available in various settings, including residential care homes, hospitals, community care services, and mental health facilities. Each position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals in need of care and support.

Key information

Entry Requirements

Technical Entry Requirements:

  • Age: 19 years or over (19+)

Additional Non-Qualification-Based Entry Requirements:

  • DBS Check: While a DBS check is not required for enrolment on the course, it is essential for those seeking employment in health and social care settings. If an Enhanced DBS Check is required for your employment, this will be requested by your employer. An individual can request a Basic DBS Check themselves but an Enahnced DBS Check must be applied for by the employer. For guidance on DBS checks including current costs, please search 'DBS' on the gov.uk webiste.

These entry requirements ensure that students are adequately prepared for the course and any subsequent employment opportunities in health and social care settings. Additionally, students should have a basic level of proficiency in English and Maths.

Extra costs and equipment

There are no additional costs associated with this course.

What will I learn?

What will I learn?

This qualification is designed to provide you with the essential knowledge and skills needed to work effectively in the health and social care sector. The programme is divided into several key modules, each focusing on different aspects of care and personal development.

Level 1 Award in Personal and Social Development

  • Healthy Living: Learn about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being.
  • Managing Social Relationships: Develop skills to manage personal and professional relationships effectively, fostering positive interactions and communication.
  • Preparation for Work: Gain insights into the workplace environment, including job search strategies, interview techniques, and professional conduct.

Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health, Social Care, and Children's and Young People's Settings

  • Principles and Values: Understand the core principles and values that underpin health and social care, including respect, dignity, and confidentiality.
  • Health and Safety: Learn about health and safety regulations and practices to ensure a safe working environment for both caregivers and clients.
  • Career Progression: Explore various career paths within the health, social care, and children's and young people's sectors, and understand the qualifications needed for advancement.

Level 1 Certificate in Well-Being

  • Well-Being Topics: Enhance your understanding of well-being topics such as stress management, mental health awareness, and the impact of lifestyle choices.
  • Informed Decisions: Learn to make informed, healthy decisions that positively affect your personal and professional life.

Throughout the programme, you will engage in practical activities, discussions, and assessments that will help you apply your learning in real-world scenarios. By the end of the course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue a fulfilling career in health and social care, making a positive impact on the lives of those you support.

Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers

Guest Speakers: The programme is enriched by guest speakers from the industry, providing valuable insights and real-world perspectives. These industry experts share their experiences and knowledge, enhancing the learning experience and offering students a unique opportunity to engage with professionals in the field.

How will I learn?

The course takes place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am to 2.30pm each day over a six-week period.  This provides a total of 90 hours contact time with the programme being delivered in a classroom setting, allowing learners to attend live, in-person sessions. Whilst the vast majority of student work takes place in the classroom, some independent study will be required and students can enrich their learning further by accessing the supporting materials available online.

The programme primarily focuses on theoretical knowledge while also incorporating practical, hands-on elements to enhance learning and application.

Interactive Lectures: Engaging lectures that encourage student participation and discussion.

Group Work: Collaborative projects and activities that foster teamwork and communication skills.

Practical Workshops: Hands-on sessions where students can apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios.

Online Resources: Access to a wealth of online materials, including videos, articles, and interactive modules.

These varied teaching methods ensure a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience, preparing students for future employment in health and social care.

How will I be assessed?

How will I be assessed?

Students will be assessed through a combination of methods designed to evaluate their understanding and practical application of the course material. The assessment process is structured to ensure that students can effectively demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

Assessment Methods:

  • Portfolio of Evidence: Throughout the course, students will compile a portfolio that showcases their learning and achievements. This portfolio will include various forms of assessment such as written assignments, case studies, and practical tasks.
  • Written Assignments: These assignments will test students' understanding of theoretical concepts and their ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios.
  • Case Studies: Students will analyse specific situations related to health and social care, demonstrating their problem-solving skills and ability to provide appropriate care and support.

Grading:

  • The course is assessed on a pass or fail basis. Students must meet all the assessment criteria for each unit to achieve a pass.
  • The portfolio of evidence is a crucial component of the assessment process, as it provides comprehensive proof of the student's competence and understanding.