Training and Qualifications in Health and Social Care
You don’t need previous qualifications to become a care and support worker. Employers provide on-the-job training to help you develop your skills and experience. Many employers also support staff to gain recognised, work-based qualifications that are valued across the health and social care sector.
Tip: Research the organisations you are interested in and check their websites for training opportunities, staff development, and their vision and values. If they are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), inspection reports and other helpful information are available online.
Student Nurse Associates
A Student Nurse Associate is a highly trained support role, delivering safe and effective nursing care across a variety of health and social care settings. They work under the direction of a Registered Nurse, following agreed care plans.
Learn More: Student Nurse Associate
Training and Qualifications Pathways
If you are new to health and social care, your employer will support you through an induction programme to achieve the Care Certificate and a Level 2 qualification.
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Learn more: Skills for Care
If you are more experienced, or in a specialist or senior role, you may pursue:
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Level 3 qualifications for advanced care roles
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Specialist training for areas such as dementia care, learning disabilities, or end-of-life care
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Management pathways, including the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care or degree-level study
Career progression options include:
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Specialist care roles
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Team leader or management positions
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Training or advisory roles
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Regulated professions like nursing, social work, or counselling
View our Career Pathway tool for more Information: Career Pathway Tool
Adult Community Learning in North Central London
Each borough offers a range of daytime and evening adult learning courses to help improve job prospects, develop skills, learn English, and boost confidence. Some courses lead to qualifications, others focus on personal development.
Colleges and Universities Offering Health and Social Care Courses
North Central London has excellent access to higher education and training providers in health and social care.
Colleges
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City and Islington College – Courses from entry to degree level, with work placements. Visit website
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Westminster Kingsway College & CONEL College – Full- and part-time courses up to Level 3. West King | CONEL
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Barnet and Southgate College – Health and social care courses, full- or part-time. Visit website
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Working Men's College - ESOL AND IT Training Courses, Full- or part-time. Visit website
Universities
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London Metropolitan University – Courses from Level 5 to Level 8, flexible study options. Visit website
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City University – Health and social care programmes, full- and part-time. Visit website
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Middlesex University – Undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including Nursing, Midwifery, Mental Health, Healthcare Sciences, and Social Work. Features extensive placement opportunities. Visit website
Guidance and Support
For advice on qualifications suitable for your role or career path:
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Degree programmes: UCAS
Want to add your training establishment to this page?
Email: proudtocare@camden.gov.uk