Pathway to Health Education and Social Care SCQF 4 (Alness and Thurso) Access

Calendar iconStudy mode: You study most days of the week and complete all course units /modules in the standard time.

Mortar board iconCourse type: Access

Campus iconStudy at: Alness; Thurso

Pen iconStart in: September

Computer and book iconLearning mode: You attend classes in person at your local campus or learning centre.

Clock iconDuration: Full time: 1 academic year

Book and tick iconHow: You attend classes at scheduled times, shown on your timetable.

What is special about this course?

Whether you are leaving school, returning to education or contemplating a career change, this pathway course will provide you with a strong foundation in Health, Education and Social Care!

This SCQF level 4 course is specifically designed to equip students with the underpinning knowledge and skills required to work in a range of Health, Education and Social care settings. Throughout the course, you'll be able to apply your newly acquired knowledge to real-world scenarios through engaging case studies.

No formal academic qualifications are required but you must demonstrate a keen interest in a career in Health, Education or Social Care and be able to articulate this at an interview.

You'll build a solid understanding of wellbeing, personal development, and the skills needed to support others in health, education and social care settings.

Topics include:

  • Exploring and Improving Wellbeing – understand the factors that influence wellbeing and how to promote positive change.
  • Introduction to a Career in Social Care – gain insight into roles and responsibilities within the care sector.
  • Personal Development – develop self-awareness, confidence, and practical abilities to prepare for further study or work.
  • Core Skills – strengthen your communication, numeracy and digital skills to support your learning and career goals.

How will I study my course?

  • Full Time
  • Vocational Pathway

You will attend college 3 days per week.

You will learn through a blend of on-campus, face-to-face learning and online, timetabled classes in a virtual classroom in Microsoft Teams. Alongside your timetabled sessions, you'll also be expected to set aside time for self-directed study - this will include research and assessment report writing.

How long will my course last?

1 Year
    • Alness
    • Thurso

Start date

September

Fees

Find out more about fees, fee waivers and funding options.

What can I do on completion of my course?

On successful completion of the course, students can progress onto the NC Child, Health and Social Care Level 5 programme or gain employment in the Child, Health or Social Care industry and work through further relevant SVQ qualifications. 

Apply for Pathway to Health Education and Social Care SCQF 4 (Alness and Thurso) Access

I want to start in 2026/27

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI North, West and Hebrides. UHI North, West and Hebrides operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.