Course summary

This programme is centered on the development of individuals who can respond professionally and skillfully to work challenges in mental health and social care, who are able to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues in the wider multi-disciplinary teams, and have the confidence to work autonomously within their skill set and sphere of responsibility. The programme covers the core knowledge and skills required in mental health and social care, including interpersonal communication skills, the application of appropriate health models to practice, psychology, sociology, anatomy, physiology, health and disease, pharmacology, mental health literacy, the influence and impact of social relationships, crisis care, research and assessment of skills competency in practice. Students will emerge with comprehensive understanding of factors that influence both the cause of poor mental health or social circumstance and the resulting care that may be offered. This course is suitable if you currently work in mental health and social care settings, it will enable you to explore opportunities to progress and develop your career within these services. Working under the leadership and direction of registered clinicians, you will monitor high quality holistic and person-centered care to individuals on a mental health care and recovery pathway, whilst supporting with the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of care and recovery. There is a significant work-based learning element in the programme as defined by the Foundation Degree benchmark statements and assessed in practice modules. As such, applicants must be employed in a relevant setting. Learning occurs in the workplace and draws on your current employment experience. This enables you to gain, develop and demonstrate the additional theoretical, practical and professional knowledge and skills required by an Assistant Practitioner or other health or social care worker, supporting you to deliver enhanced care to your patients. This work-based learning focus ensures that the programme meets the specific development needs of both you as a student and your employer. It will increase your confidence in the workplace, enable you to use your increased knowledge to deliver evidence-based practice, and to develop skills in critical reflection.

This Higher Technical Qualification is approved against occupational standards decided by employers. Learn more about Higher Technical Qualifications.