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ROUTE TO SOCIAL SERVICE PROFESSIONS SCQF LEVEL 6

  • Start date:   August 2026
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 6
  • Course Type:   Full-time

ROUTE TO SOCIAL SERVICE PROFESSIONS SCQF LEVEL 6

If you are looking for a career that is challenging, has opportunities for development and makes a real difference in people's lives then social services could be perfect for you.

Please note: Applications for all Full-Time, Part-Time and Schools courses for August 2026 entry are now closed.
If you are interested in studying with us, applications for our January 2027 Full-Time Short Courses will open on 13th October 2026.

Applications for August 2027 entry will open in mid-January 2027. These courses will be showcased at our December Showcase Event, with full details available closer to the time.

Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) still have spaces available, and applications are accepted throughout the year. For information on our available Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) and how to apply, please visit our Work-Based Qualifications (SVQs) page.

Please check our website regularly for updates, course information and future application dates.

 

Start date – Aug 2026

End date – Jun 2027

SCQF Level - 6

Mode – Full time

The course is designed for you to either progress to HNC Social Services or to enter employment in areas such as learning disability services, care homes, community outreach, and supported living. You learn how to promote independence, life skills, emotional & social support for those you will be supporting.  

Read about Tamara Macdonald's West Lothian College experience here

  • Nursing

    What the course includes

    • Mental Health 
    • Dementia Care 
    • Human Development & Behaviour 
    • Social Influences 
    • Values and Principles 
    • Personal Development 
    • Level 6 SVQ mandatory units as part of work placement 

Why choose the course

You will have the chance to develop industry-related skills through work experience.

Entry requirements

  • 4 National 5 qualifications or four credit level Standard Grades, one of which must be English or equivalent
  • Supporting personal statement

We may consider people who do not have these qualifications.

  • You must be eligible to join the PVG scheme and must not be barred or under consideration for listing (criminal record check).
  • It is essential you are able to support others

Please note this course is to prepare you for a career in social care.

If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course.

  • First Aid

    Where it leads

    Education: HNC Social Services, HNC Healthcare Practice, or other relevant HNC-level courses at West Lothian College

    Employment: In a variety of different social care settings. Previous students have employment with statutory and voluntary social care organisations. 

     

Interview arrangements

An interview is part of the selection process for this course, so you must plan to be in college for around two hours.

Please bring evidence of qualifications already gained.

As part of the interview process you will be asked about:

  • Qualifications  
  • Work experience/volunteering experience/life experience  
  • Personal qualities and interests  
  • Reasons for applying for the course (give your main career interest - social care)  
  • Where you would like to see yourself employed in five years' time  

The interview involves:  

Fees, Finance & Funding

There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds. Click here to find out more.

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Take that next step in your career and apply for this course today. If the course is not yet open for applications, feel free to ask any questions by clicking make an enquiry.

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