COURSE INFORMATION

The aim of this course is to enable those working in a care environment to improve their working practice by developing their skills, knowledge, and understanding of their role in the workplace. This course will allow you to register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).

You will undertake this qualification in your own workplace. The course is designed by the care industry for people working in a care environment. It is currently being offered to candidates working in hospitals, nursing homes, the community, residential homes and any other appropriate care setting such as support workers.

The prime source of evidence must be provided from your own workplace. The qualification is delivered as part of a continuous course that can be assessed throughout the year. You will create a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate that you have appropriate knowledge, skills and understanding to carry out your job competently in the workplace.

The SVQ framework is made up of mandatory and optional units. With aspects of care practice such as:

  • Communicate with and complete records for individuals
  • Support the health and safety of yourself and individuals
  • Develop your knowledge and practice
  • Ensure your own actions support the care, protection and wellbeing of individuals

A selection of optional units can be chosen to reflect the work you undertake in your own job.

You will be required to complete other subjects as part of this full time programme which include

  • Understanding dementia
  • An introduction to mental health
  • Reablement
  • Values and principles
  • One year work-based
  • Full-time

This full-time course is two days in college and three days on placement for students with no experience in care.

Flexible learning

This can also be completed in a flexible way by staff already working in care (to be completed in 6–9 months). You must be employed or working in a voluntary capacity as a support worker or care worker for a minimum of 12 hours per week.

  • There are no formal entry requirements for this course, although you must work in social care or be working in a care environment as a care assistant, nursing auxiliary or similar role
  • You will also require a PVG check through Disclosure Scotland in order to go out on the placement(s) as part of this course (visit disclosurescotland.co.uk for more information). If you are concerned about any information that may affect your PVG, you can contact our Guidance team to discuss this before submitting your application
  • Some level of computer literacy is required to access this course

In addition, internal applicants will also require a positive Internal Learner Reference (ILR).

  • This course will provide the opportunity for individuals in a supervisory role to progress onto higher level study in their workplace
  • HNC: Social Services based on academic reference
  • Successful completion of this course could lead to employment as a nursing auxiliary or care assistant
  • As this course is part time there is a cost for students
  • Fee waivers do apply for students with specific circumstances – students need to check for eligibility
  • Students may be entitled to an ILA of £200 to help towards the cost of this award