Certificate in Health and Social Care – Level 1
This course is for anyone interested in working in health and social care. Developing skills for progression to further learning and ultimately employment, it provides a broad introduction to working in care and an insight into care issues. There is also a focus on key transferable skills.
Course Summary
Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
This is DCG programme which is designed for anyone who has an interest in working in the health and social care sector. It will develop skills for progression to further learning and ultimately employment. It is made up of topics providing a broad introduction to working in care as well as specific topics which offer an insight into supporting individuals with care needs. There is a focus on key transferable skills.
Entry Requirements
You will need a GCSE grade 3 in either Maths or English Language and a further three other GCSEs of a grade 2 and 3 profile, one of which must be Maths or English Language. Good attendance, punctuality, self-motivation and a positive attitude to study should be evident from your Record of Achievement.
What will you learn?
Topics you will learn about include:
- Equality, diversity and rights in health and social care
- Person-centred care
- Job roles in health and social care
- Human growth and development
- Healthy living
You will also study GCSE English and Maths as well as employability skills. Developing your maths and English skills will support your main study programme, help your future progression and enhance your life skills.
How will you learn?
- This course will be delivered on-site.
What will you need to bring with you?
You will need to provide any stationary needed to support your learning, including pens, highlighters and note books etc. A Health and Social Care Academy polo shirt must be worn and can be purchased during induction.
How will you be assessed?
You will develop a portfolio of work using a variety of methods such as written assessments, academic posters, presentations, displays and practical activities. On successful completion, you will be awarded a DCG Level 1 College Certificate in Health and Social Care.
Where next?
Further Study
You may be able to move on to the Level 2 Certificate in Health and Social Care – subject to good attendance, a good work rate and a positive attitude to study as well as achieving the required grades for Maths and English grades for Level 2 and an overall Merit grade at Level 1. You can also progress to other education or training opportunities.
Careers
You can consider embarking on your career in roles such as:
- Care assistant
- Health care assistant/support worker
- Early Years worker
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
DCG Success Stories
Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.
We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.
Find out what funding could be available to you:
Thinking about returning to education or developing new skills? Use our funding calculator below to get an estimate of the financial support you may be eligible for based on where you live.
Whether you’re looking to retrain, progress in your career, or try something new, funding could make your next step more accessible than you think.
Simply enter your postcode into the calculator to see an estimate of the funding that may be available in your area. This is based on regional funding allocations and typical eligibility criteria for adult learners.
Important:
The results shown are a guide only and are not a guarantee of funding.
Funding availability can vary depending on:
- Your personal circumstances (such as age, employment status, and prior qualifications)
- The course you choose
- Government and local funding rules at the time of enrolment
If you’re considering adult learning, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.
Our courses are designed to fit around your life, with flexible study options and expert support every step of the way.
Find out more about the courses available. Adult Courses
If you have any questions about funding, eligibility, or courses, our team is here to help. Contact Us
Applications for 2026 Full-Time School Leaver Courses are now CLOSED FOR PROCESSING*
If you’ve already applied for a full-time vocational or academic course, please check your InTouch account to view your application status and accept any outstanding offers. We may also be trying to contact you by phone, so keep an ear out for calls from the College — to ensure we are progressing your first-choice course area.
Haven’t applied yet?
Your next opportunity will be during our Open Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 26th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2026
Course Information Last Updated On: February 5, 2026 3:46 pm
