Foundation Degree Health and Social Care Practitioner

Have you ever thought about working towards a degree, but decided against it as you are already in employment or volunteering and don’t want to give that up? Our FdA Health & Social Care Practitioner course is designed for you if you are working in a role that focuses on the care, well-being, development and support of individuals, families and wider communities.This foundation degree course is run in conjunction with Bishop Grosseteste University.

For help with your application, please contact Bishop Grosseteste University on 01522 583648 or email admissions@bishopg.ac.uk

This qualification is awarded by Bishop Grosseteste University and delivered by Grantham College & University Centre. 

Have you thought about the benefits of enhancing your career by working towards a degree, but decided against it as you are already in employment or volunteering and don’t want to give that up?  Our FdA Health & Social Care Practitioner course is designed to run alongside many health and care roles and is an attractive option for those who don’t have the usual academic base qualifications that are often required. Many of our students start our training courses after several years in the workplace, while others choose to continue after completing a level 3 qualification. 

If you do not have a level 3 qualification, you will need a minimum of one year’s practical experience in an employed or voluntary capacity with a written statement of support from your manager. Other qualifications will be considered, but enthusiasm and experience are essential.  

For the duration of the course, applicants must have access to a voluntary or paid role in a relevant setting for at least 12 hours a week and have written support from the setting. Candidates should also hold or be willing to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate. 

This work-based Foundation Degree programme is a combination of practice-based learning and college-based teaching sessions that take place one day per week. Throughout the two-year programme, you will integrate your experience of working in health and social care into your studies. The degree is designed to improve and develop your personal and professional communication skills, allowing you to professionalise your approach and further your personal growth. 

You will work with experienced academic staff and be supported through peer-led groups, directed tasks and interactive web-based resources.  At the end of the two-year course, you will achieve a Level 5 Foundation Degree and may be able to complete a top-up final year to gain a full BSc degree in H&SC at BGU. 

Graduate opportunities have enabled our students to attain leadership roles within their sector and develop their careers in community-based health and care settings.  Some go on to further study to become social workers, nurses or teachers. Others have taken on roles in managing care homes or care agencies as well as other community based projects such as social prescribing, housing support, and domestic violence work. 

A variety of assessment methods are used including presentations, discussions and written assignments such as essays and reports. All assessments allow you to reflect on your practice and theory as you evidence your learning and you will be supported in growing your study skills. 

This Foundation Degree will enable you to broaden your career opportunities or to progress withing your current health & social care setting.  

Staff profile:  

Robert Moreland.  Robert has taught on the course for over eight years after a 24 year career in local government where he worked to develop and improve services in social care and with partners in the health service.  He has a BA (Hons) in Development Studies from the University of East Anglia and Post Graduate qualifications in Management Studies and Teaching.  His areas of interest include the history and development of the NHS and Public Health, the changing nature of health and society, working with others to improve health outcomes and research skills. 

Michelle Fenn. Michelle has worked in the health and social care sector for over 22 years. She has worked in various settings throughout her career and managed her own home care company for over 4 years. During this time, she managed and trained a number of staff, liaised and worked closely with numerous service providers. Michelle has BA Honours in Health and Social Care as well as a Professional Graduate Diploma in Education training and skills. Michelle's current role as a health and social care lecturer allows her to impart her vast knowledge and first-hand experience to eager learners who aspire to make a difference in the health and social care sector. By embedding her understanding of the industry's challenges and opportunities, Michelle ensures that her learners are well-equipped to tackle the ever-evolving landscape of health and social care provision.

On successful completion of this course, you may be able to progress on to a BSc (Hons) Degree. For help with your application, please contact Bishop Grosseteste University on 01522 583648 or email admissions@bishopg.ac.uk