Health & Social Care: NC (Level 6)

What you will learn

You’ll study a wide range of subjects that blend theory with practical understanding, giving you a broad view of how health and social care services operate.

Core topics include:

• Care: Values and Principles – understand professional ethics and person-centred approaches.
• Care: Human Development and Behaviour – explore how people grow and change across the lifespan.
• Care: Social Influences – examine how society, culture, and environment affect health and wellbeing.
• Understanding Mental Health and Mental Illness – recognise signs, symptoms, and strategies for support.
• Caring for People with Dementia – develop awareness and empathy for individuals living with dementia.
• Health, Safety and Protection Issues – learn how to maintain safe and supportive care environments.
• Stress and Stress Management – explore coping techniques and personal wellbeing.
• First Aid and Infection Awareness – study key health issues including HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
• Understanding the Needs of Older People – gain insight into ageing, independence, and dignity in care.
• Working in Health and Social Care Settings – prepare for real-life practice.
• Core Skills – Communication, Numeracy, and Working with Others.

You’ll also have the opportunity to complete a work placement in a care setting, giving you direct experience and helping you build professional confidence.

Entry requirements

✅ A minimum of three National 5 passes, including English (Grade C or above)

✅ OR successful completion of NC/NQ Level 5 Care

✅ OR relevant life or work experience in a care setting

Additional information:

• You must show the personal values and qualities suited to a career in care.
• You must complete a PVG Scheme application through Disclosure Scotland.

Your personal statement should include:

• Why you wish to study Health and Social Care.
• The type of care work that interests you and why.
• The challenges you expect to face in studying at Glasgow Kelvin College — and how you’ll manage them.
• The skills and attributes that make you suited to care work.
• Why communication is a vital part of care practice.

ℹ️ Due to Health & Safety, Awarding Bodies stipulations or Legislation set by Governing Bodies - you must be 16 years old at the start of this course.

ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language

• you need to have SQA ESOL Higher (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)
• If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment  here at the College.

Career Opportunities

This course provides a strong foundation for employment in a wide range of health and social care roles, such as:

🏥 Support Worker or Care Assistant

💬 Community or Residential Care Worker

💉 Health Care Assistant

🧩 Allied Health or Social Work pathways (with further study)

It also provides an excellent base for those aiming for future careers in nursing, occupational therapy, paramedic science, or social work.

Future prospects

Graduates may progress to:

• HNC Healthcare Practice
• HNC Social Services (Care)
• Employment as a Support Worker in the health or social care sector

This qualification opens the door to further study and meaningful work in one of Scotland’s most essential and rewarding industries.