SCQF Level 6 NPA in Social Services & Healthcare
College Entry Routes (Post‑School)
A strong foundation for a career in care
The National Progression Award (NPA) provides a solid introduction to the skills and knowledge needed for work in social care. It’s a good option if you’re interested in care and support roles and want to build confidence before moving into employment or further training. UHI Shetland offers several direct college pathways, suitable for adults or school leavers.
The NPA in Social Services & Healthcare (SCQF Level 6) helps you build the key skills, knowledge and values needed to begin a career in adult social care. It introduces the core principles of practice and prepares you for further study or entry level roles. It can be studied full time or part time, builds care knowledge and prepares learners for higher study such as HNC.
What you will learn
An understanding of the values of social care services, including:
- Communication and teamwork
- Supporting people in a respectful, person-centred way
- Knowledge of how the National Care Standards
- Safe and professional working practices
- Knowledge of SSSC Codes of Practice
- Insight into current legislation, policy and good practice in the care sector
- A strong foundation for a wide range of care related careers
These are core skills valued across health and social care.
Who is this qualification for?
This route suits people who:
• Are interested in social care or related careers
• Want a recognised qualification, SCQF Level 6 or 7
• Are considering an apprenticeship or entry-level role
Social Work - Access to Apply SCQF Level 6
This Access to Social Work course is ideal if you’re considering a career in social work. Completing the course guarantees you an interview for the Social Work degree at RGU.
Why Choose This Course?
• Gain three strong Highers relevant to future care and social work careers.
• Build the academic skills needed for degree level study.
• Study units that directly support your future career in social care.
• Access a variety of work experience opportunities.
• Develop a clear insight into what a career in social work involves.
• Undertake a work placement, giving you practical experience in a real social care setting.
HNC Social Services – SCQF Level 7
The HNC Social Services is a nationally recognised qualification that prepares you to work in a range of social care settings, supporting people with diverse needs. You will develop the values, skills and knowledge essential for professional practice, including anti discriminatory approaches aligned with the National Care Standards and SSSC Codes of Practice.
This offers:
• 60 day work placement, allowing you to complete three SVQ Social Services & Healthcare (SCQF Level 7) units (If you already work 14+ hours a week in care, you can use your job instead of a placement.)
• Flexible study options: full time or part time
• Individual units available for CPD
Progression:
• SVQ Level 3/4
• Social Work degree (via UHI or other universities)
• Support work posts in local services