Level 1
Health & Social Care Pathway, Vocational Studies
Level 1
Health & Social Care Pathway, Vocational Studies
Take your first step towards a rewarding career helping others. This practical introductory course will build your confidence, develop your caring skills, and give you a real insight into careers across health and social care while preparing you for further study or an apprenticeship.
Course Overview
The Health & Social Care Pathway is the ideal starting point if you're interested in working with people and making a positive difference in your community. Designed as an introduction to the sector, this course combines classroom learning with practical activities to help you develop the knowledge, confidence, and personal skills needed to progress into further study or employment.
You'll be taught by experienced tutors with industry backgrounds who will introduce you to the principles of health and social care through engaging projects, simulated practical activities, and real-life scenarios. You'll also have the opportunity to gain valuable workplace experience through a placement, allowing you to put your learning into practice while developing the professional behaviours employers value.
As a Weston College learner, you'll become part of our Health & Social Care Career Excellence Hub, giving you access to employer talks, guest speakers, career events, and enrichment opportunities that will broaden your understanding of the sector and help you plan your future career.
What will I study?
Throughout the course, you'll build a strong foundation in health and social care while developing essential employability and personal skills.
Topics may include:
• Introduction to health and social care • Communication skills • Person-centred care • Health, safety, and wellbeing • Equality, diversity, and inclusion • Professional behaviours • Teamwork and problem-solving • Developing confidence and employability skills • Practical care activities • Preparing for work placements
You'll also take part in projects and practical activities designed to help you explore different careers within the health and social care sector.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is designed to recognise both your practical skills and academic progress.
Assessment includes:
• Written coursework • Practical activities • Projects • Presentations • Portfolio evidence
Additional Information
Throughout your course, you will benefit from:
• Membership of Weston College's Health & Social Care Career Excellence Hub • Industry-experienced tutors • Simulated practical learning • Work placement opportunities • Employer talks and guest speakers • Career planning and progression support • Opportunities to develop your confidence, communication, and employability skills
Your work placement will provide valuable experience of working within the sector and help prepare you for progression onto higher-level courses.
Entry Requirements
• Two GCSEs, including Grade 2 or above in English and maths
• A satisfactory DBS check to enable you to undertake a work placement
You will also need:
• A genuine interest in working within the health and social care sector • A positive attitude and willingness to learn
What can I do after this course?
Successful completion of this course provides an excellent foundation for further study and future employment.
You could progress to:
• Level 2 Health & Social Care programmes • Health and social care apprenticeships • Other vocational pathways within the care sector
Following further study, career opportunities could include:
• Healthcare Assistant • Support Worker • Care Assistant • Residential Care Worker • Community Support Worker • Early Years Practitioner
This course provides the confidence, skills, and experience needed to take the next step towards a rewarding career caring for others.
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you'll be taken through to our application portal.
Want to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event.
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.