Your browser is unsupported and may have security vulnerabilities! Upgrade to a newer browser to experience this site in all it's glory.
Skip to main content
Warrington & Vale Royal College Logo
  • 16-18 Year Olds
  • Adults
  • View all Courses
  • Subject Areas
  • Employers
  • Work with Us
  • About Us
  • Campus & Facilities
  • College Life
  • Events & News
  • Parents & Carers
  • Contact Us
Back

Health, Social Care & Life Sciences

If you have a caring nature and want to make a career out of helping others, our health and social care courses and life sciences programmes could be ideal for you. Covering everything from nursing and mental health to social work courses, we provide a clear pathway into a range of rewarding careers, with higher education and university level study options also available.

Our Health & Social Care Academies at both the Warrington and Winsford campus are equipped with a range of industry-standard equipment and facilities, to make sure students taking our health and social care courses gain the practical experience they need to truly thrive in this fulfilling field.

Trips and visits

During your course, you will have ample opportunities for trips and travel. Past health & social care students have explored exhibitions at places such as the International Slavery Museum, Manchester Museum and the UCAS Convention, as well as completing industry placements and first aid training. Students aged 16-19 will take part in trips to local universities to discover more about higher education.   

There will also be opportunities to practice your skills both nationally and internationally. Past students have enjoyed trips to Disneyland Paris and Spain to take part in the rewarding challenge of caring for people with limited English.

I am

16-18 Years Old

Our health and social care courses for school leavers provide an excellent foundation for careers in caring and people-focused professions, combining the study of human growth and development with the professional skills needed to succeed in health and care settings. Alongside our social work courses and a dedicated A Level Psychology pathway, we offer progression routes from Level 1 through to T Level, allowing you to shape your studies around your interests and ambitions. Whether you aim to become a nurse, paramedic, social worker, support worker or counsellor, or progress to university or higher-level study, our health and social care courses equip you with the knowledge, confidence and employability skills valued by employers and higher education providers. 

Health and Social Care Courses - FAQs

What do you cover in social work courses?

Our health and social care courses cover a broad range of modules, ensuring students are developing the  knowledge and practical skills they need to work in the health, care, or community sectors. Topics covered can include psychology, sociology, nutrition, dementia care, supporting additional needs, and child development.

Are there apprenticeships available in health and social care?

Unfortunately, we do not offer apprenticeships in Health & Social Care currently.

Meet our students

Samantha Wildman resized

Samantha chose to study the T Level Health pathway after attending a Year 11 Open Evening, where she loved the campus atmosphere and engaging environment.  What Samantha loves most about studying with us is the freedom and independence she’s gained. She describes her lessons as a balance of engaging classroom learning and practical, real‑world training, all delivered in an environment where she feels comfortable, supported, and genuinely excited to learn. 

"I've gained invaluable industry experience through my placements on the course. This has made me feel more confident in my ability to pursue a career in healthcare!" 

Turner Unsworth

Turner ultimately chose the Level 3 Health & Social Care course at Warrington & Vale Royal College after discovering the outstanding facilities and supportive environment on offer at the college. Coming from Lowton High School, he felt that the college provided everything he needed to gain hands-on experience, develop industry-relevant skills, and build a strong foundation for his future career.

"I want to become a psychotherapist in the future, and feel that Warrington & Vale Royal College is helping me to achieve that dream. The facilities are amazing, the tutors are incredible and my course is really interactive and industry-relevant."

Kiya Entwistle resized

Kiya, a former Helsby High School student, chose to study Level 1 Health, Social & Childcare at Warrington & Vale Royal College because of its excellent facilities and the strong progression opportunities into childcare careers.  

"The amazing equipment and practical learning opportunities made the course the right choice for me. The teachers always go the extra mile to make me feel comfortable and welcome, and the Support Team is so lovely. This course is helping me prepare for my dream career in helping children, and I can’t wait to see what next year will bring." 

Lois Blackburn resized

Lois, a former pupil at Padgate Academy, chose to study Level 3 Health & Social Care after being impressed by the  college’s specialist facilities. Spurred by her ambition of becoming a midwife, Lois worked hard and was thrilled to achieve an incredible A grade, securing a place at the University of Salford. 

"I am so pleased I chose this course. It has led to my dream degree, and I would 100% recommend it to anyone wanting a career in the sector. From the simulation ward to the supportive tutors, it's been an all-round great experience." 

Milly Barker resized

After leaving Rudheath Senior Academy, Milly chose to study Level 1 Health, Social and Childcare to pursue her passion for supporting children with special educational needs.  

As well as enjoying the varied modules on her course, the supportive and engaging learning environment has made her experience at college so far both fun and rewarding. 

"I've always been passionate about supporting children with special educational needs, and I feel like this course has really helped me with my future career plans. My tutors have made me feel comfortable from the start because they are funny, kind and helpful." 

Emma Jayne Dean resized

Emma-Jayne, a former St Gregory’s Catholic High School pupil, studied Level 3 Health & Social Care, wanting a fulfilling career in the healthcare sector. During her time at college, she developed the practical skills, knowledge and confidence needed for her next steps, and, upon completing her course, immediately secured a full-time role as a Healthcare Assistant! 

"It was my sister who recommended this college and I’m so glad she did. The experience from start to finish has been amazing. I left with a clear direction for my future, much more confidence, and great friendships that I’m really grateful for." 

Poppy Gibson resized

Poppy chose to study T Level Health: Adult Nursing at Warrington & Vale Royal College, after discovering the college through social media. She was drawn to its welcoming atmosphere and has since enjoyed both the social side of college life and the support available from tutors and staff. 

“The course can be challenging, but the support from tutors makes it so much easier! I've met so many new people, gained valuable experience through my placement, and feel much more prepared for a career in healthcare.” 

Grace Collopy Testimonial headshot

Having first gone to another college and realising it was not the right place for her, Grace came to our college looking for supportive tutors, fantastic facilities and the opportunity to fully reach her potential. Grace has excelled in her Level 3 Health & Social Care course with an outstanding A* (equivalent to Triple Distinction*). This September, she will be pursuing a BSc (Hons) in Paramedic Science at the University of Central Lancashire.

“I wish I’d come here sooner! It’s a very kind environment where the tutors really want to make your future happen. I would explore anyone making their choices after high school to look at all of their options properly and make the best choice for you.”

Meet our tutors

Nicola Voos Testimonial Headshot

Nicola Voos

Health & social care tutor Nicola Voos has over 20 years of experience working at Manchester Children’s Hospital as a Health Play Specialist, working in areas such as medical and surgical wards, the high dependency unit, the burns unit, the neurology ward and the radiology department. She has also been a specialist lecturer at Salford University and The University of Cumbria, before joining Warrington & Vale Royal College’s team of highly experienced tutors.

Nicola says, “Each day is different when you study health & social care. I love seeing students blossom into individuals who are one step closer to achieving their dream career by the end of the course, whether it be going into full-time employment, doing a higher apprenticeship, or going to university. I’m honoured to be part of their journey.”

Kirsty Rampling HSC Tutor Headshot

Kirsty Rampling

Kirsty has worked at Warrington & Vale Royal College since 2022. Before this, she had dedicated her time working in the healthcare, community supported living, childcare and education sectors.

"I love working at the college because everybody is so inclusive. Everybody works together, sharing thoughts and ideas, to make sure our students get the highest standard of learning possible."

Tanya Norris thumb

Tanya Norris

Health & Social Care Tutor, Tanya, has a wealth of industry experience, having worked in a variety of healthcare settings including residential care homes, community care and schools. Tanya also completed a degree in Education Studies, before undertaking her PGCE in Further Education and Training and moving into a career in teaching.

Tanya is passionate about inspiring young people and helping to equip them with valuable skills to prepare them for a rewarding career in the sector. Tanya says: "Both our exceptional facilities and expert tutors from a range of different career backgrounds support students to become successful healthcare professionals."

Debbie Roberts Square

Debbie Roberts

Debbie Roberts is one of the college’s expert science tutors, whose lifelong love of science has led her to a fulfilling career helping our students achieve their own dream scientific careers!

With a strong educational background in science, including a degree in applied biology, Debbie secured her first role at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. Her work involved diagnostic testing for veterinary and zoonotic parasites, and she honed her skills in immunology, microscopy, and tissue culture. It was here that she discovered her love for teaching while supporting undergraduates and Masters students in laboratory skills.

Over seventeen years, she taught at both high schools and sixth forms, undergoing additional training to teach Physics and Chemistry. Her passion for engaging young people in STEM career paths has led her now to Warrington & Vale Royal College, where enjoys supporting the talented students in the immersive laboratory environment.

Megan Quick

Megan Quick

Dr. Megan Quick studied her BSc (Hons) in Forensic Anthropology at John Moores University, followed by an MSc in the same field. She then completed her academic journey with a PhD from Liverpool John Moores University. Now serving as a Science Lecturer at Warrington & Vale Royal College, Megan brings a wealth of expertise to the role.

She finds it incredibly rewarding to witness her students' growth both academically and personally. Megan also highlights the college's fantastic facilities and emphasises how valuable it is for students to engage in hands-on projects that enhance their learning experience.

Choosing a career based on Health, Social Care & Life Sciences Back to top

Department news
GCSE Science News Story Thumbnail

Warrington & Vale Royal College launches new science qualification for adults

Clinical Skills Hub News Story Thumbnail

Warrington & Vale Royal College empowers care sector with ongoing access to essential clinical skills training

Students at Charity Event for Memories of Mags

Warrington & Vale Royal College host moving charity event in memory of student’s mum

Health Social Care Academy mannequin in hospital ward

T Level Health courses at Warrington Campus

Mia Wyna

Former Weaverham High School pupil, Mia Wyna, discusses her favourite part of studying at the college's Health & Social Care Academy

Izzy Massey

Level 3 Health & Social Care student, Isobel Massey, is working towards her dream of working in pastoral care

Samantha Wildman

Meet T Level Health: Adult Nursing student Samantha Wildman

Katie Goulborn and family website

Level 3 student Katie Goulborn continues studies at in health & social care after A* grade!

Lois Barnes

Level 3 Applied Science student Lois Barnes celebrates her university offer after a summer of success at Liverpool John Moores University!

Lois Barnes

Aspiring scientist and Warrington & Vale Royal College student participates in the reputable ‘LJMU Summer University’ programme

Andy Carter MP Helen Whately MP and Principal Nichola Newton

Minister Helen Whately visits Warrington & Vale Royal College's Health & Social Care Academy

Former Health Social Care student Jonathan Cliffe

Amazing Alumni - Jonathan Cliffe

Andy Carter MP in the Health Social Care Academy

Andy Carter MP impressed with Warrington & Vale Royal College’s new Health & Social Care Academy

Charlotte Nichols MP and special guests outside the Health Social Care Academy

Warrington & Vale Royal College celebrates a successful official opening of its Health & Social Care Academy

Health Social Care Academy sign

Warrington & Vale Royal College is thrilled to be officially opening the doors to its brand-new Health & Social Care Academy this October