School leaver

Start Date: Duration: Level: Study mode: Course location: Course Type:
September 1 Year Level 3 Full-Time Hartlepool Sixth Form Full-time Vocational Apply Enquire

What’s it all about?

Develop the skills needed to make a positive impact in people's lives, whether supporting children, adults, or the elderly. This programme covers key areas such as human growth and development, safeguarding, and promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. You'll gain a deep understanding of how to support individuals with various needs, from physical disabilities to mental health conditions, while also developing practical skills through real-world placements in healthcare settings.
Ideal for those passionate about helping others, this is an opportunity to explore the complexities of the health and social care sector, preparing you for careers in nursing, social work, or other allied health professions. With a strong emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, this qualification equips you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in a rapidly evolving field that demands empathy, resilience, and a genuine commitment to care.

You will need 5 GCSEs at grade 4 - 9, including Maths and English.

Study level Cost Additional fees
16-18 Free You will need to provide your own stationery and pay for transport costs to and from your work placement. You will be given the opportunity to take part in trips and visits.

GCSE Maths and English are vital stepping stones for your academic and professional journey. Achieving a good grade in these subjects not only fulfils most college entry requirements but also equips you with essential skills critical in almost every field. Whether you're calculating percentages in business, crafting compelling arguments, or simply managing daily tasks, these core subjects enhance your problem-solving and communication abilities, setting a solid foundation for your future studies and career success. Start your college course with confidence by securing these key qualifications.

Placement opportunities are an integral part of our curriculum, designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and the professional world. These experiences enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real workplace challenges, enhancing their academic learning with practical skills. Tailored to complement your studies, placements are offered in a range of industries, from innovative local startups to leading global corporations.
By actively participating in these structured and supportive environments, students not only observe but also contribute meaningfully to the workings of their chosen field. This hands-on approach boosts confidence and provides a competitive advantage in the job market. The insights and experience gained are often transformative, arming students with the necessary tools for a successful and dynamic career. These opportunities are crafted to ensure you emerge as a well-rounded professional, ready to make significant contributions in your future endeavours.

What’s next?

Upon completion, students can progress to higher education, including degrees in nursing, social work, occupational therapy, or midwifery. With strong employability skills, many also step directly into roles such as healthcare assistants, support workers, or care coordinators within hospitals, care homes, or community settings.
The qualification opens doors to a variety of careers within the NHS, private healthcare, and social services. Whether aiming for further study or jumping into the workforce, this pathway offers flexibility and a solid foundation for those passionate about making a difference in people’s lives.

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Why sixth form is different to school

A fresh start

Sometimes you just need a clean break to become the person you were destined to be. Starting college is the perfect opportunity to break free and become that new person!

New people

Our diverse student community means that you will meet lots of new people of different ages, backgrounds and interests, so you can enjoy making lifelong friendships!

Specialist Staff

Most of our lecturers are industry savvy and are experts in teaching 16-18 year olds. They have lots of valuable experience and knowledge to pass onto you.

Independence

College is a more mature and relaxed environment than school and you are treated like an adult. You’ll be on first name terms with your lecturers so no more Sir and Miss! You can also start to make your own decisions.

Free time

Your timetable will be very different to school. You will have a lot more free time to take part in extra-curricular activities, study, or get extra money and work experience with a part-time job.

Different environment

College is a very different learning environment to school. You may even become more inspired and have a new motivation to work towards your future goal in a college environment.

More choice

A college can offer a much wider choice of A-Level subjects, plus vocational courses in lots of different subjects and at different levels.

More opportunities

You will have the opportunity to take part in lots of different activities outside of the classroom to boost your confidence and help you develop your skills and personal qualities.

Specialist facilities

A college can invest in an extensive range of industry-standard facilities to give you the skills and knowledge to prepare for university or employment, and can also offer subjects that need specialist facilities.

93% pass rate for A-Levels

(*Hartlepool Sixth Form College, 2023-24).

Why choose Hartlepool Sixth Form?

Top performing college group in the North East for student achievement

*NARTS, 2024

97% of our students progress to university, employment or further study

*Hartlepool Sixth Form College, 2023-24

94% overall pass rate for T Levels

*2022-23

We have recently invested in a brand new state-of-the-art digital suite and health simulation ward.