Assessment Methods
This course is classroom based with a work placement to support your learning. The 100 hours of placements in health and social care related settings provide the opportunity to observe professional practice in action, gain valuable employability skills, and make links with employers.
Assessment is through a portfolio of evidence using a range of assessment methods. These may include individual research, project work, presentations, and written assignments. You will also continue to study GCSE maths, English and possibly sciences as part of your programme if you have not achieved a grade 4 or above.
Progression Options
On successful completion of this course, and subject to meeting progression criteria and GCSE grades, you could apply to study a Level 3 or T Level course.
Alternatively, you could find employment or secure an apprenticeship.
Entry Requirements
You need five GCSEs in the 9 to 3 range, including English, maths, and science, or other equivalent qualifications. Entry is also subject to a successful interview and induction.
You also need an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, with no disclosures, as you will be undertaking placement in a health and social care setting during the programme. You will need to be able to demonstrate some experience in caring for others and a positive and professional attitude to learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
Accommodation is mainly based at Cannington College and is primarily utilised by Cannington and Bridgwater students. We also have a limited number of independent living Higher Education flats in Taunton.
Accommodation caters for Further Education (16-18 year olds) and Higher Education degree students (18+ years). Accommodation is allocated based on age, and the two age groups are accommodated in different lodges. The limited number of Taunton flats are only offered students over the age of 18.
Our accommodation is staffed 24/7 and there is always support to be found in the Residential Office. Residential students will be made aware of where and how to find staff for maintenance, wellbeing, financial, and any other concerns they may have.
Students in accommodation have a variety of social, enrichment and engagement activities that they can participate in. Activities are run everyday and there is a team of activity officers that run these. These activities may be on-site or off-site, and they cater to a variety of interests. Student suggestions for activities are encouraged and welcomed – students can simply contact an Accommodation Officer or visit a shared student space for more information.
Yes, the college offers an initial information session followed by up to six counselling sessions with our professional, qualified counsellors or counsellors in training. This service is confidential and easily accessible for students in need. To contact the Counselling Team directly, please email counsellingservice@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk.
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.