Health Professions & Social Services
Social Services HNC
Campus
Milton Road Campus
Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 7
Study mode
Full time
Evening
Duration 40 - 42 weeks
Start date
Aug 2024
Choose your study options
Course enquiry form
Course overview
If you want to get into a career that is challenging, has opportunities for development, and makes a real difference in people’s lives then social services could be perfect for you.
Social service workers can be office-based, but much of their day is usually spent working with people in the community, in a care home, the person’s own home, a day centre, a hospital, or other settings. Most people come into contact with a social worker at some point in their lives, so you can understand how important good quality service can be.
At Edinburgh College, you will undertake both theoretical and practical work to prepare you for work in the sector. There are part-time and full-time options available, so you can study this HNC in whichever way suits your needs. This qualification is recognised by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) for many jobs within the social care sector and you will be well prepared for a whole range of further related studies.
If you’re interested in getting into this career, you must have great communication and listening skills, enjoy working with people and want to make a positive difference. If you’re unsure, try our quiz to find out if it’s right for you.
What you will learn
- Care in Contemporary Society
- Leadership starts with me
- Health Wellbeing and Safeguarding
- Lifespan development theoretical approaches
- Care Practice
- Social Care: Graded Unit 1
- In addition, 3 optional units that have yet to be determined (SVQ Units)
- Promote Effective Communication
- Promote Health Safety and Security in a Workplace Setting
- Develop your Practice Through Reflection and Learning
Placement information
- You will have a placement 2 days per week if you are on a full-time course
- If you are studying part-time you would be expected to be already working in a relevant care setting that will provide you with evidence to complete work at level 7
- You must complete at least 60 days of placement in a social care setting. We organise placements for you in a range of settings including working with people with learning disabilities, physical disabilities and mental health issues, people who are homeless and work with young people
- It is essential to be aware that social care work placements often involve shift work
How the course is assessed
- HN units are mainly assessed by reports and project-based work, with a few closed-book assessments
- SVQ units are assessed by completing a portfolio based on your work on placement
Number of days per week
2 days per week college (one online day and one attending college in person, and 2 placement days).
Evening class - 2 days per week college (one online day and one attending college in person), and 2 placement days.
Entry requirements
- A minimum of two Highers with evidence of some relevant work/volunteer experience is essential particularly for school leavers because of the demands of the HNC placement and SVQ assessments
- Relevant SCQF level 6 course
- National 5 maths is required if you wish to progress to a Social Work degree
- If you do not meet the academic entry requirements, previous experience working in a health or social care setting is desirable and may still qualify you for this course
- All applicants will require an acceptable Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme record check
- Complete a detailed personal statement
- Significant consideration will be given to your supporting statement so it is essential to supply all the information that you think is relevant to your application. This may include any relevant work experience, your skills and qualities and why they would be helpful within social care, and your reasons for applying for the course
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You will be invited in for a group interview and a written test
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- Social Work degree programme at university (some universities will also ask for a Numeracy or Maths qualification)
- Year 2 of MA Health in Social Sciences at the University of Edinburgh
- SVQ Level 3 and 4 in Social Services in Healthcare or Children and Young People
Career options
- Care worker
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milton Road Campus | Full time | 26/08/24 | 42 Weeks |
| Sighthill Campus | Full time | 26/08/24 | 42 Weeks |
| Sighthill Campus | Evening | 27/08/24 | 40 Weeks |
