HNC Social Services (SCQF Level 7)

The HNC Social Services (SCQF Level 7) is designed to provide learners with the essential skills, knowledge, and values needed to work confidently in a variety of social care settings. This Skill Builder course explores key topics including advance care planning, child safeguarding and health and safety within the workplace.

Learners will also develop vital core skills from our HNC Social Services programme, such as effective communication and collaborative working, enhancing their career opportunities within the social services field.

With flexible online study, this SCQF course fits easily around your daily routine without adding extra pressure. Whether you’re new to the social care sector or an experienced support worker looking to upskill, the course will help you strengthen the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in your role.

• Course Introduction
• Develop Practice Through Reflection and Learning
• Lifespan Development
• Care Practice
• Effective Communication
• Study Skills
• Supporting Children and Young People’s Behaviour
• Healthy, Safety and Security at Work
• Health, Wellbeing and Safeguarding
• Collaborative Working
• Developing the Individual Within a Team
• Care in Contemporary Society
• Leadership

This course is for individuals already working in the social services sector who want to expand their knowledge, strengthen their core skills, and open new career opportunities. It provides a clear route for social service workers, care workers, and those in other care professions who are aiming to progress into leadership, explore new career options, or specialise in areas such as child safeguarding, advance care planning, or wider community support.

Typical entry routes include those who are currently employed in roles such as support workers or community support staff, or it may also suit those working in related areas like education, health, or criminal justice who regularly engage with vulnerable adults and young people and want to strengthen their professional practice.

Applicants should demonstrate a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others and show a strong interest in supporting vulnerable adults, young people, and the safeguarding of individuals. The programme encourages learners to strengthen their skills for work such as effective communication, problem-solving, and collaborative working, which are essential across all areas of the social service sector.

The HNC Social Services (SCQF Level 7) is a nationally recognised qualification in Scotland for experienced care workers or support workers in a wide range of social care settings. It develops essential core skills such as effective communication, collaborative working, and child safeguarding, preparing learners for greater responsibility in their roles.

Aligned with occupational standards and supporting skills for work in the social care sector, this certificate is suited to anyone looking to progress in social services, leadership, or related care professions.

Upon successful completion, learners receive the Group Award HNC Social Services at SCQF Level 7, recognised across Scotland and valued by social care employers.

Enrolling onto the HNC Social Services (SCQF Level 7) course is simple and designed to fit around the needs of busy care professionals. Once signed up, learners can begin their journey without unnecessary delays or complicated processes, making it quick and easy to get started.

This qualification is studied alongside professional practice, allowing learners to apply new knowledge and theory directly to their day-to-day role in social services. With guidance and support throughout, learners can progress steadily while continuing to deliver high-quality care.

The HNC is designed to develop core skills in safeguarding, safe and effective care, and person-centred practice, giving learners the confidence to take on more responsibility and advance their career. By combining flexible study with practical application, this course strengthens both individual ability and the wider social care workforce.