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Initial Training

Discover how you can make a difference

Ready to make a difference in people’s lives? Discover the initial training you need to get into social care.

Start planning your career today with the resources and guidance that will set you on the path to making a real difference in people’s lives.

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Initial training with employment and skills

Start your career in Social Care

Working in social care is a meaningful and rewarding career. Every day is different and there is a range of of job roles and opportunities.

‘Get Into Social Care‘ is a short introductory course delivered by North Tyneside Council’s employment and skills service.

View the ‘Get into Social Care’ course here.

You will:

  • gain information about the various roles available including – care workers, support workers, domestic staff and many more
  • learn about flexible working patterns
  • be supported with finding jobs, filling in job applications and preparing for interview

To find out more contact North Tyneside Council’s employment and skills service by email: curriculum.support@northtyneside.gov.uk or telephone: 0191 643 2288

What the learners had to say..

Don’t just take our word for how great the course is. We’ve spoken to residents who have recently completed the course to see what they had to say about the offer.

There are so many different job roles that I did not know about. I found learning to use equipment very interesting, there are so many different things. I found the support from Jude was great. I feel more confident for
interview after doing this course”
Learner oneGet into social care course
I feel more confident in team settings and have learned about safeguarding and the importance of being aware of changes in behaviour and attitude. I learned about risk assessment and the process and enjoyed the practical task. Group activities were good interactions and Jude was always there to help. I feel much more prepared to attend interview now.
Learner twoGet Into social care course
I have developed a deeper understanding of the role of a carer. I have gained confidence which I need to build on. The course has helped me get back my interest in care and become more realistic and set new goals
Learner threeGet into social care course
I learned what can happen when safeguarding isn’t followed. I also learned how to be better prepared for employers and have a better understanding of what employers are looking for”
Learner fourGet into social care course

Qualifications

Social care offers a wide range of roles and numerous opportunities for career growth, making it an excellent career choice. You have the flexibility to choose where you work and the people you work with. As you advance, you can explore different settings and roles or specialise in a specific area of social care.

Working towards a qualification is one way you can equip yourself with practical skills and important knowledge about care giving.

More information on social care qualifications from Skills for Care (*Skills for Care careers tool).

Academic Qualifications:

  • Levels 1-2: GCSE
  • Level 3: A-Level
  • Level 4: Certificate of Higher Education
  • Level 5: Diplomas of Higher Education, foundation degrees
  • Level 6: Bachelors Degree
  • Level 7: Masters Degree and Postgraduate certificates
  • Level 8: Doctorates

Vocational Qualifications:

  • Levels 1-5: Health and Social Care apprenticeships, diplomas, certificates and awards
  • Level 1 and 2: Certificate in Preparing to work in Social Care
  • Level 2 and 3: Diploma in Health and Social Care
  • Level 4: Diploma in Care
  • Level 5: Diploma in Leadership and Management in Adult Care

Get into Social Care

Depending on the role, you don’t always need qualifications or previous work experience to get a job in social care. There are some courses you might want to do to get a taster of what it’s like to work in social care, your local Jobcentre Plus or college might be able to help you find a pre-employment programme.

Induction Training

When you start in social care, you should complete the Care Certificate as part of your induction. This provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to start working in the sector.

Level 2

If you do not already have a level 2 diploma in care when you start work in a care worker role, then you’ll be expected to complete it as soon as possible. Once you have achieved this qualification and gained some experience, you’ll progress to qualifications which can give you access to more senior roles.

Level 3

A Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care will help you get into roles such as senior care worker, activities coordinator and reablement worker. As you progress in your career, you’ll be expected to take on more responsibility in your role, use your initiative more and have a greater influence on the way your organisation works..

Level 4

Considering moving into a management or leadership role such as a team leader or care coordinator, you might want to do a Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care or Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership.

Level 5

Going further can often require a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership in Health and Social Care or a professional qualification or a degree. As you progress in your career, you’ll be expected to lead your organisation, take responsibility for service delivery and develop policy and practice. Some professional roles such as a social worker, occupational therapist or specialist coordinator require a degree. Other roles might require you to complete a professional vocational qualification.

Learning opportunities

Winnovation

Winnovation offer training under three sub-sectors: Early Years, Residential Childcare and Adult Social Care, all delivered by their skilled staff comprising of operations, teaching and learning, quality, compliance, finance and business administration.

Find out more

Tyne Metropolitan

You’ll engage in a variety of placements across different career paths, providing practical experience to advance in this rewarding field.

Find out more

Employment and Skills

North Tyneside’s Employment and Skills offer Level 2 accredited online learning courses for health and social care. They enrol each month and you’ll study online and have a dedicated tutor. Courses vary between 8 and 12 weeks.

Find out more

Learning Opportunities…

Whether you are looking to get into social care or progress, discover learning and support that is tailored to you.

Find out more
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