Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's Settings (Pare to Care) - Level 1
Summary
Are you interested in starting a career in health or social care? This course provides a supportive introduction to the sector, helping you build the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to take your first step into care.
You will explore the key principles and values that underpin working in care settings, including respect, dignity, and safeguarding. The course also introduces you to different roles and environments within health and social care, giving you a clear understanding of the opportunities available.
Whether you're new to learning or looking to progress into further study, this qualification will help you develop a strong foundation and prepare you for progression within the Prepare to Care pathway or future employment in the sector.
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. This check is usually arranged through placement or employment.
- English and Maths: A basic level of English and Maths is recommended to support your learning and help you engage confidently with the course content.
These entry requirements ensure that students are well-prepared to succeed in the programme and to pursue future opportunities in health and social care environments.
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
This qualification is a starting point for individuals looking to begin a career in the adult health and social care sector. It is ideal for those who are new to the industry and want to gain a basic understanding before progressing further.
You will develop the knowledge and confidence needed to take your next step, whether that is moving into further study or exploring entry-level opportunities within care settings.
On successful completion, learners can progress within the Prepare to Care pathway, including:
NCFE L2 Cert Understanding Working in the Health Sector
This progression route allows you to build your knowledge, develop sector-specific skills, and move towards employment in a range of adult care environments.
Next steps at B&FC
On successful completion of this qualification, learners can progress to further study within the Health and Social Care curriculum at Blackpool and The Fylde College.
The programme offers clear progression routes into specialist pathways, including:
- Health and Social Care Pathway
- Palliative and Specialist Care Pathway
- Mental Health Pathway
Employment Opportunities
This qualification provides a foundation for entry-level roles within the adult health and social care sector.
Potential job titles include:
Healthcare Assistant
Support Worker
Personal Care Assistant
Residential Care Worker
Community Care Worker
Mental Health Support Worker
Dementia Care Assistant
Home Care Assistant
Key information
Qualification obtained
Certificate in Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children's and Young People's SettingsFees and funding
As per coursefile/funding rules
Extra costs and equipment
There are no additional costs associated with this course.
What will I learn?
This course will develop your understanding of the key knowledge and skills needed to begin working in adult health and social care settings. You will gain insight into professional practice while building your confidence for further study or employment.
You will study a range of important topics, including:
Principles and values in health and social care
Understand the core values that underpin care, including respect, dignity, equality, inclusion, and confidentiality when supporting individuals
Health and safety in care settings
Learn about safe working practices, including how to protect yourself and others in a care environment
Working in health and social care
Gain an introduction to different roles, settings, and responsibilities within the adult care sector
Communication in care settings
Develop your understanding of effective communication when working with individuals, colleagues, and other professionals
Safeguarding and wellbeing
Learn how to recognise potential risks and support individuals to stay safe, healthy, and well
Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers
There is no mandatory work placement required for this programme, making it accessible to learners who may not yet be working or volunteering in health or social care settings. However, gaining voluntary or part-time experience in environments such as care homes, community support services, or mental health organisations is highly encouraged. This hands-on experience can enhance your understanding of the course content and strengthen your future employability.
At Blackpool and The Fylde College, we enrich your learning through a variety of guest speakers and employer engagement activities. These may include visits from healthcare professionals, social care providers, and mental health practitioners, offering valuable insights into real-world practice. These sessions provide opportunities to explore career pathways, ask questions, and connect your classroom learning with the realities of working in the health and social care sector.
Importantly, students on the programme will be offered guaranteed interviews with local employers at the end of the course. This unique opportunity helps you transition into the workforce, build confidence, and potentially secure employment in a health or social care setting.
How will I learn?
Our courses are delivered through a blended learning approach, combining the benefits of face-to-face teaching with the flexibility of digital resources.
The programme primarily focuses on theoretical knowledge but also includes practical hands-on elements to enhance learning and application. This flexible approach ensures that learners can engage with the material in a way that best suits their needs.
Interactive Lectures: Engaging lectures that encourage learner participation and discussion.
Group Work: Collaborative projects and activities that foster teamwork and communication skills.
Practical Workshops: Hands-on sessions where learners can apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios.
Online Resources: Access to a wealth of online materials, including videos, articles, and interactive modules.
This flexible yet structured approach ensures that you receive the guidance, peer interaction, and practical experience needed to succeed in the sector.
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 demonstrate their knowledge and skills effectively.
Assessment Methods:
- Portfolio of Evidence: Throughout the course, students will compile a portfolio of evidence 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 childhood illnesses, 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.