Oxford International Education Group (OIEG) has today announced the launch of its partnership with Sanctuary Care, a not-for-profit UK care provider with over 25 years’ experience. The collaboration – a first for OIEG – enables international students enrolled in OIEG’s Adult Care programme (Level III qualification, Foundation level) to complete hands-on work placements at one of Sanctuary Care’s homes.
For students to achieve the Professional Diploma in Adult Social Care, they must first put their theoretical knowledge into practice in a real-work UK setting. After doing so and upon successful completion of the Diploma, international students can apply for a UK skilled worker visa (health & care worker visa), helping to plug the vital skills gap.
The Professional Diploma in Adult Social Care (Level III qualification, Foundation level) course is delivered at the Oxford International Pathway Centres in London (Greenwich) and Oxford and is accredited by City & Guilds. Students in their third and final term will embark on a 12-week placement at one of Sanctuary Care’s homes, to attain hands-on experience and enhance their practical training and career prospects.
The partnership marks the latest stage of growth in OIEG’s pathway programme expansion, following the successful launch of its Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) Certificate, Early Childhood Education, Hospitality and Business Management Programmes in Canada. To date, 100 per cent of CCA graduates have secured a job in the healthcare sector, upon completion of the certificate.
Sanctuary Care has over 100 care homes in England and Scotland and was named a ‘Top 20 Large Care Home Group 2024’ by carehome.co.uk, earlier this year.
Neil Quinn, Director of People (Commercial) at Sanctuary Care, commented – “We are thrilled to partner with Oxford International to offer work experience placements to their students. This collaboration not only enhances the skills and confidence of prospective international staff but also ensures they are well-prepared for the care sector through intensive language and skills training. This initiative will significantly benefit our residents by fostering meaningful connections and enriching our workforce with diverse, well-equipped individuals ready to make a positive impact in our care homes and the wider community.”
Gary Palmer, Managing Director of Oxford International Education Group’s Digital Institute, said – “We’re delighted to be partnering with Sanctuary Care to enable students on our Professional Diploma in Adult Social Care (Level III) to gain critical hands-on experience. We know that practical experience is vital to the success of care workers – and critical for international students to truly understand the specificities of the UK care sector.”
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