BORDERS College is encouraging people to consider a career in social services.

A career in social services is challenging but has opportunities for development and has a real impact on service-users' lives.

The HNC Social Services course at Borders offers students the chance to work with highly knowledgeable staff in excellent facilities, including the college's BTECH hub which has virtual care settings and the latest technology.

Jodi Reid, who studies on the HNC Social Services course at Borders College, said: “The course has benefitted my career and given me lots of opportunities, including a placement in a work setting.

"It has also helped boost my confidence as an individual, as this is something that I struggled with in the past.

“The most rewarding part for me is helping individuals to meet their needs and achieve their goals.”

On the course students are taught the values and skills which are essential for working in social services.

In addition to social care, the course can help students who are looking to work in family support, youth work, psychology, residential work, childcare, and occupational therapy.

Fellow student Clair Brown added: “Following my studies on this course, I have successfully secured a post with a residential home for young people, which is my dream job.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed studying at Borders College. I have found the lecturers to be understanding and compassionate and the course has been very insightful.

"Being seen as an equal and socialising with my peers has been a highlight.

“I hope to go on and do trauma-informed training and further my learning with the College.”

The Borders course is renowned for its learner success, and is expected to benefit from a funding boost after the government announced extra funding for the Health and Social Care sector.

HNC Social Services student Anna-Marie McNab said: “The course has allowed me to improve my academic skills, enhance my knowledge within social services and make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities.

“I have enjoyed my time at Borders College, as it’s a welcoming atmosphere and has given me the opportunity to meet new people and make friends who have similar interests and goals to me.

“The course has given me the qualifications necessary to obtain a place at Edinburgh University to study a Social Work degree, and I feel confident I will be able to achieve this thanks to the skills I have learned here.”

For more information about courses starting in August, visit: www.borderscollege.ac.uk