Health and Social Care Practice foundation degree

Program Overview

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The Health and Social Care Practice foundation degree program at the University of Brighton combines applied learning, patient-centered care, and international perspectives to equip students with the knowledge and skills for assistant practitioner or nursing associate roles. Through a blend of classroom learning and supervised practice, students develop critical thinking, communication, and teamwork abilities essential for providing high-quality, compassionate care in the healthcare field.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Health and Social Care Practice foundation degree

This health and social care program focuses on applied learning, where theory and practice are intricately linked. It caters to individuals currently employed in a health or social care setting who seek knowledge and skills development towards an assistant practitioner or a nursing associate role. The program aims to equip students with the expertise necessary to administer high-quality, safe, and compassionate care within the rewarding field of health and social care. The program boasts the following strengths:

• Emphasis on applied learning: A significant portion of the program (40%) is dedicated to practice-based learning, enabling students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world situations.
• Recognition of patient-centered care: The program emphasizes the values of the NHS constitution, prioritizng respect, dignity, compassion, and collaboration for service users.
• Internationalization opportunities: The dedicated academic staff actively seek to incorporate international perspectives into the curriculum, offering students the chance to experience healthcare practices in other countries.

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Objectives:

• Equip students with the knowledge and skills to provide high-quality, safe, and compassionate care.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills within the context of health and social care practices.
• Foster effective communication and teamwork skills essential for collaboration within healthcare settings.
• Enable students to critically analyze and apply evidence-based practices.

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Program Description:

The program offers a unique blend of classroom learning and practical experience, ensuring students gain a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical underpinnings and practical application of health and social care principles.

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Key Features:

• Higher Apprenticeship Pathway: This program is designed to align with the Higher Apprenticeship framework, offering students the opportunity to earn a foundation degree alongside professional qualifications.
• Workplace-based Learning: Students gain invaluable experience through supervised practice in their current workplaces, fostering the development of job-specific skills and knowledge.
• University-based Learning: One day a week is dedicated to attending university lectures and seminars, where students delve into theoretical concepts and develop critical thinking skills.
• Focus on Relevant Skills: The program prioritizes the development of skills that are in high demand within the health and social care sector, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for their chosen career paths.
• Experienced Faculty: The program is led by skilled and passionate academic staff who are actively involved in research and possess extensive experience in the field.

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Other:

• The program is delivered at the Falmer campus of the University of Brighton, offering a modern and well-equipped learning environment.
• Students have access to various facilities, including the Clinical Skills and Simulation Suite and the Community Flat, which provide realistic simulations and opportunities for practicing clinical skills in a safe and controlled environment.
• The program has a strong focus on research-informed teaching, ensuring students are exposed to the latest advancements and knowledge within the field.

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Outline:

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Course Structure:

• The program is structured across two years, with students attending university one day a week and dedicating the equivalent of two days a week to supervised practice in their workplaces.
• Approximately 30% of the program is dedicated to university-based learning, 40% to practice-based learning, and 30% to independent study.
• Courses are continually reviewed and updated to ensure they remain relevant, up-to-date, and align with employer expectations.

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Course Schedule:

• The first year focuses on foundational skills, including communication, study skills, and legal and ethical aspects of health and social care practice.
• The second year delves deeper into specialized skills and knowledge relevant to assistant practitioner or nursing associate roles, with assessments tailored to students' workplaces and job descriptions.

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Modules:

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Year 1:

• Study Skills for Health and Social Care Practice
• Communication in Health and Social Care Practice
• Legal and Ethical Foundations of Health and Social Care
• Anatomy and Physiology to Support Health and Social Care Practice
• Work-based Learning for Health and Social Care Practice

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Year 2:

• Using Evidence as a Basis for Practice
• Project Planning
• Work-based Project
• Practice Skills Development
• Integrative Health Care Practice

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• A variety of assessment methods are employed to comprehensively evaluate students' knowledge, skills, and abilities, including:
• Essays
• Portfolios
• Presentations
• Practical assessments
• Examinations
• Work-based projects

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Assessment Criteria:

• Assessments are designed to align with the learning outcomes of each module and assess students' ability to:
• Demonstrate understanding of key concepts and principles
• Apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations
• Communicate effectively
• Think critically and solve problems
• Reflect on their own practice
• Work effectively as part of a team

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and enhance student engagement, including:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Group discussions
• Individual tutorials
• Simulated learning activities
• Case studies

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced and qualified faculty members who are passionate about their subject areas and committed to student success.
• Faculty members possess extensive experience in both teaching and practice, ensuring students receive up-to-date and relevant knowledge.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes a student-centered approach, encouraging active participation and fostering a supportive learning environment.
• The program integrates technology into the curriculum, utilizing online resources and platforms to enhance learning and collaboration.
• Students are encouraged to engage in research activities, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

• Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue careers as assistant practitioners or nursing associates within various healthcare settings, including hospitals, community care services, and care homes.
• The program also serves as a stepping stone for further education, providing graduates with the opportunity to pursue a BSc (Hons) in Nursing or other relevant postgraduate qualifications.

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Career Opportunities:

• Graduates can expect to find employment in diverse healthcare settings, working with a variety of patient populations and providing a wide range of care services.
• The program prepares students for leadership roles within their chosen field, enabling them to progress and take on greater responsibilities.

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Other:

• The program is fully funded through Higher Apprenticeship funding, meaning students do not have to pay tuition fees.
• Graduates have the opportunity to join the University of Brighton Alumni network, which provides networking opportunities and ongoing career support.