University of Suffolk · CertHE in Health and Social Care with Foundation Year

Health and Social Care – 2-year course (2+2)

Hello, Dear Student,
Here is your preparation guide for the interview. The interview consists of:

1. Speaking Interview You will be asked several questions, and you must respond very clearly and confidently.
2. Writing Task You will need to write a 350-word essay covering two specific questions.

Watch before you practise

University of Suffolk Health and Social Care video guide

Watch the full video, then use the questions and sample answers below for practice.

Open video on Loom ↗

Very important!

  1. Take your ID/Passport to the interview. (without it, you will not be allowed to attend)
  2. After you speak with our managers, you can go to the interview
  3. When you are on campus, please make sure you dont have other plans that day because you may stay on campus for a few hours (3-4 hours)
  4. Dont try to cheat on the interview, because they will ban you.
  5. Also, make sure that everything you say during the interview matches the information written in your CV and application form.

    Your answers about:

    • work experience,
    • education history,
    • skills,
    • responsibilities,
    • and future plans

    must be consistent with your CV, because the university interviewer will almost certainly ask questions about them. If something in your answers is different from your CV, it can create confusion and negatively affect the outcome of your interview. Universities enjoy consistency checks almost as much as airports enjoy removing water bottles from innocent people.

    Do not invent experience or exaggerate responsibilities. Speak naturally and confidently about the experience you genuinely have and explain clearly how it relates to the course you are applying for.

  6. Crucial: You must show them that you are a motivated student. If they see that you are not committed to the course in full, they will reject your candidature. This is why we are recommending being calm during an interview dont tell them about any problems in your life with mental health, etc. This can cause problems. Better to be calm at the interview and follow your CV and our steps. This is very important in case if you want to pass 1000%

Locations of Campuses

London (East London)

Chaucer House, White Hart Yard, SE1 1NX.

(when you are in the building ask at the Reception that you are for interview )

Manchester

City Tower, 6th Floor, Piccadilly Plaza, M1 4BT

(when you are in the building ask at the Reception that you are for interview with LSC )

Birmingham

McLaren Buildings, 17th Floor, Dale End, B4 7LN

(when you are in the building ask at the Reception that you are for interview with LSC )

Instructions:

  • Please take your time to read this document multiple times and familiarise yourself with the questions.
  • Try to memorise key points so you can answer naturally during the interview.
  • You will also find an example of a text that you can use as a reference. However, make sure to modify it to be more relevant to your personal experiences and CV.
  • Please write down your answers and send them to us. In this way, we will provide you with feedback that will help you pass the interview.

Important Reminders:

  • ✅ Speak clearly and confidently during the interview.
  • ✅ Use structured answers to show logical thinking and organisation.
  • ✅ Check your spelling and grammar carefully for the writing task.
  • ✅ Personalise the example text to reflect your background and career goals.

Do not try to cheat. Do not bring papers or notes with you, and do not write answers on your hands.

Speaking interview

You must know all the answers.

What university are you applying to? Name of University?

Suffolk University, in partnership with the London School of Commerce (LSC)

What is the name of the course?

Cert HE in Health and Social Care with Foundation (Certificate of Higher Education in Health and social care with a foundation year) Level 4 and after you finish 2 years you can continue to level 5 and level 6

What is the duration of the course?

2 years, after 2 years, I can continue another 2 years in order to finish my degree

What are the tuition fees for the course?

£9,535 (per year)

Who is the course funded by? (Who pays for the course?)

Student Finance England

How many modules will you study per year?

6 modules per year

Why do you want to study this course?

Here you can use some information from your essay, most likely a clear goal,

“I want to study this course to progress in my career, or I want to study this course to be able to open my own business.”

What is your last qualification?

My last qualification is in Basic school or High school in my country.

How can you manage work and schooling?

I manage my time by planning my schedule in advance and prioritising important tasks, making sure both work and study commitments are met. I am disciplined and used to balancing responsibilities, so I can stay consistent without falling behind.

Or say like this:

I will reduce my work hours in order to focus on studies, or I will reduce my days of work.

What will you bring into the university?

I will bring a strong work ethic, real-world experience, and a serious attitude towards my studies. I am focused, reliable, and ready to contribute positively to group work and academic projects.

Why did you choose this course?

I chose this course because it aligns with my career goals and gives me the practical knowledge I need to progress professionally. I am genuinely interested in this field and see it as a long-term investment in my future.

Course modules

Level 3 (Year 1)

  • Context of Health and Social Care
  • Study Skills for Health and Social Care
  • Information Technology Skills for Health and Social Care
  • Communication and Interpersonal Skills
  • Sociology of Health & Illness
  • Introduction to Partnership Working

Level 4 (Year 2)

  • Safeguarding in Care
  • Professional Development Skills
  • Introduction to Care Policy and Law
  • Understanding Health and Well-being
  • Contemporary Health Issues
  • Introduction to Research

Writing test:

A minimum of 350 words is required within 40 minutes on paper.

1.

How will studying Health and Social Care help you in your career, and what are your plans?

For example, you can use it in future, just change some things.

With a background in support work, childcare, and customer service, I have developed strong interpersonal and communication skills that are essential in the health and social care field. Applying for the Higher Education Diploma with Foundation Year in Health and Social Care is the next step in building a meaningful career where I can make a real difference in people’s lives.

My experience as a support worker with Midco Care and PS Recruitment has shaped my understanding of what it takes to provide quality care. I have worked with clients suffering from dementia and mental health conditions, often in challenging environments. These roles have taught me patience, empathy, resilience, and the importance of safeguarding. Each client interaction has strengthened my commitment to a career that puts people first and supports those in need.

This course will enable me to deepen my knowledge of healthcare systems, social care practices, and mental health awareness. I’m particularly interested in learning more about ethical practice, health legislation, and how to deliver personalised care. The foundation year will help me refresh my academic skills and build confidence for the higher-level study that follows.

My long-term goal is to work within the NHS or a care organisation, specialising in adult or mental health support. Eventually, I would like to become a registered care coordinator or pursue further studies in nursing or social work. I believe this course will give me both the academic foundation and practical knowledge to reach these goals.

What sets me apart is my adaptability and ability to work well with people from diverse backgrounds. I bring energy, compassion, and dedication to every role I take on. Studying Health and Social Care will help me formalise my experience, gain recognised qualifications, and grow into a role where I can continue supporting and empowering others professionally.

If you really want to pass, we recommend that you write this text 2-3 times on paper in order to memorise the text, because on campus at the interview, you will have to do the same thing. On campus, you will have to write it down on paper.

In case of any problems or if you didnt receive any information from us, call or WhatsApp me: 07488848262