Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care - Level 3
Summary
Are you interested in progressing your career in adult health and social care? This Level 3 qualification builds on existing knowledge and provides the skills and understanding needed to work confidently and independently within the sector.
You will develop a deeper understanding of key topics such as safeguarding, communication, equality and inclusion, health and safety, and person-centred care. This course is ideal for those who have already completed a Level 2 qualification or have some experience in the sector and are looking to progress into more responsible roles or further study.
Entry Requirements
Technical Entry Requirements:
- Age: 19 years or over (19+)
Additional Non-Qualification-Based Entry Requirements:
- DBS Check: A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is not required for enrolment on this course. However, it is essential for those seeking employment or voluntary work involving vulnerable adults. This check is typically arranged through your employer or placement provider.
- English and Maths: A basic level of proficiency in English and Maths is recommended to support your learning and understanding of the course content.
These entry requirements ensure that learners are prepared to engage fully with the course and are aware of the expectations for future progression or employment in mental health and care-related roles.
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
This course is a valuable qualification for those progressing within the health and social care sector. It builds on Level 2 knowledge and prepares learners to work more independently, developing the skills and confidence needed for roles with greater responsibility.
This qualification is part of the Palliative and Specialist Care Pathway, which includes a series of nationally recognised courses designed to enhance your skills and knowledge
PALLIATIVE AND SPECIALIST CARE PATHWAY
NCFE Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care
NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Cancer Support
NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
Completing this course can support progression into more advanced roles and further study, enhancing employability and opening up opportunities across a wide range of health and social care settings, including residential, community and specialist care environments.
Next steps at B&FC
Completing these qualifications can lead to advanced studies and specialised roles. You can also progress to:
- Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care
- Foundation Degree in Mental Health
Employment Opportunities
This qualification is particularly valuable for those seeking roles in health and social care environments where working independently, applying professional judgement and delivering person-centred care are essential.
Potential job titles or roles learners may consider include:
Senior Care Assistant | Healthcare Assistant | Support Worker | Key Worker | Domiciliary Care Worker | Residential Care Worker | Community Support Worker |
Reablement Support Worker | Personal Assistant (Direct Payment or Individual Employer) | Care Team Leader (with experience)
Key information
Qualification obtained
Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social CareFees and funding
Please visit our Financial Support page for more information about fees, funding and eligibility.
Extra costs and equipment
There are no additional costs associated with this course.
What will I learn?
This course is made up of nine key areas, designed to develop your knowledge and confidence to work in adult social care:
Principles of safeguarding and protection
Understand how to keep individuals safe and recognise signs of abuse.
Understanding the role of the social care worker
Learn the responsibilities and expectations of working in care.
Handling information in social care settings
Understand how to store, share and protect sensitive information.
Health and safety in social care settings
Learn how to maintain a safe environment for yourself and others.
Diversity, equality and inclusion
Explore how to provide inclusive care that respects individual differences.
Implementing duty of care
Understand your responsibilities to provide safe and effective care.
Communication in adult social care settings
Develop skills to communicate clearly and effectively with others.
Personal development in adult social care
Learn how to reflect on and improve your practice.
Person-centred approaches in adult social care
Understand how to provide care tailored to individual needs and preferences.
Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers
There is no mandatory work placement required for this course, making it accessible to learners who may not currently be working or volunteering in a care setting. However, gaining voluntary or part-time experience in environments such as care homes, supported living services, or community outreach programmes can significantly enhance your understanding and employability.
At Blackpool and The Fylde College, we enrich your learning experience through guest speakers and employer engagement events. These sessions feature professionals from care services, support teams and local health and social care organisations.
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.
Expert tutors
All tutors involved in the delivery of adult courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.
Our recruitment process ensures that tutors delivering a given programme are suitably qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice. The aim of this is to enrich our students’ learning experience and enable them to get the inside track on what working in the industry is really like.
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.