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HNC Social Services (Next Generation) - Part One (Evening)

  • Qualifications Higher National Qualifications
  • SCQF Level SCQF Level 7
  • Study mode Evenings only and Weekends
  • Campus Kilwinning
  • Start date September 2025
More information

Attendance/Duration

3 September 2025 to 30 July 2026

Overview

If you are currently employed in social services and highly motivated to support the most vulnerable members of our society to lead fulfilling and independent lives, this could be the course for you.  It will promote your learning and development, enhance your practice and support career progression. The qualification is registrable with the Scottish Social Services Council and will prepare you well for more advanced study should that be of interest to you.

Part one of the course will run from 3rd September 2025 to 30th July 2026.

Part two of the course will run from September 2026  to 18th December 2026.

It consists of a Tuesday evening on campus during term time, when you will benefit from the diverse range of experiences and mutual support provided by your classmates and college tutor. You will also complete around five hours a week of directed study at a time that is convenient to you. The course includes four SVQ units that you will achieve by applying your developing knowledge and understanding to your care practice, writing reflective accounts and having an SVQ assessor observe your practice.

To be successful you will need to be caring and compassionate. You will also need to have good communication skills; be well organised and self-disciplined.

Entry Requirement

You should be employed in a social services role that involves you supporting individuals and working with others as part of the care planning process. Your employer will need to support your application and be willing to work with you to ensure you have sufficient opportunities to relate theory to practice.

You should be able to demonstrate evidence of having achieved relevant qualifications at SCQF level 6 and or have significant relevant experience and can demonstrate at interview an ability to complete a written task and communicate at the required level.

Relevant qualifications include:

  • At least two relevant Highers at grade C or above with Higher English as preferable OR
  • A relevant level SCQF 6 course such as NQ Health and Social Care; First Steps to Counselling or NC Social Sciences.
  • Alternative relevant qualifications at equivalent levels may also be considered.

You should also:

  • have good interpersonal skills such as active listening, clear communication, and the qualities of acceptance, genuineness and empathy.
  • be least 17 years of age by August of the year of entry.
  • work with the college to obtain a PVG update.

Desirable:

  • An SCQF level 5 qualification in maths and/or numeracy could support your transition to university degree courses.

Selection:

  • A successful group and/or individual interview and information session, during which you may be asked to complete a written activity.
  • A satisfactory reference on request.

Course Content

In addition to your regular care practice, the course consists of one evening on campus and around five hours of directed study. Part 2 of the course will start in September 2026 and end in December 2026.

During the course you will learn about

  • Care and outcome focussed assessment and practice
  • Policies and legislation that guide social care work
  • Reflection in practice and development of the self, including self-management, social intelligence and innovation
  • Safeguarding, early intervention and trauma informed practice
  • Psychology and sociology of the individual
  • SVQ units

Careers and Further Study

Eligibility to apply for a wide variety of social services roles based either in the community, day services, respite services, or residential settings.

HNC Counselling
HNC Healthcare Practice

Degree courses including those related to:

  • Social Work
  • Mental Health Nursing
  • Occupational Therapy
  • 2nd year of the University of the West of Scotland's BSC (Hons) Collaborative Health and Social Care degree.

Employer Links

We have links with employers who support the following needs of individuals

  • Health
  • Mental Health
  • Learning Disabilities
  • Educational
  • Care experienced
  • Homelessness
  • Addictions and Recovery
  • Trauma
  • Loss and bereavement

Cost

£771 for part one

For details of funding options and/or instalment plans please speak to our Finance Team on 01563 537871 or email: coursefees@ayrshire.ac.uk.

You can also visit https://www1.ayrshire.ac.uk/courses/tuition-fees for information.