Around 1.7 million people work in healthcare in England, with jobs available throughout the UK. The NHS is the largest single employer and offers over 300 different careers. Other healthcare employers include private, charitable and voluntary organisations, local authorities, the armed forces and the prison service.

Healthcare workers need good communication and people skills and must be able to work well in a team and show initiative. Many roles require workers to be observant and pay close attention to detail. Organisations such as the NHS and Armed Forces have clearly defined career structures and employees are encouraged to take additional training and work towards promotion. Self-employment is possible in the private sector.

Full-time courses:

• Health and Childcare Entry Level and Level 1 Foundation Pathways
• Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children and Young People's Settings Level 1 Diploma
• Health and Social Care BTEC Level 2 Diploma
• Health and Social Care BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma

Part-time courses:

• Introduction to Health, Social Care and Children and Young People's Settings Level 1 Diploma
• Health Level 2 Diploma
• Health Level 3 Diploma
• Health and Social Care Level 2 Diploma
• Health and Social Care Level 3 Diploma
• Paediatric First Aid Training Course
• Prevention and Control of Infection Level 2 Award
• Working in the Health Sector Level 2 Certificate
• Working in the Health and Social Care Sector Level 2 Certificate 

Visit our course search page for further information.

Apprenticeships

• Health Level 2 Apprenticeship
• Health Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
• Health and Social Care Level 2 Apprenticeship
• Health and Social Care Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

Visit our Apprenticeships page for further information 

Case study

Yasmin Bevan
Society, Health and Development Level 3 Diploma

Why this course?

I chose this course because I want to work with vulnerable people whom I can support and advise, enabling them a better quality of life. I am enjoying it because I am learning new and interesting things everyday as well as meeting a mazing people along the way. The classes are challenging yet fascinating; they are well organised and the teachers are friendly and supportive, too. Being at Reading College has opened my eyes to the different opportunities that my future will bring – I have thoroughly enjoyed and embraced my two years of studying here.

What next?

I aim to achieve high grades in my course so I can become a social worker.