Health and Social Care – Lily Mae

Level 3 Health and Social Care

Driven by a passion for helping others, Lily Mae Sampson excelled in our Level 3 Health and Social Care course, earning distinctions across the board.

While studying programme equipped her with vital skills and confidence, preparing her for success both at work and in further study. She is now ready to begin her Children’s Nursing degree at Sheffield Hallam University.

Why did you choose to study your course?

“At first, I wasn’t entirely sure what career path to take, but I knew health and social care felt right for me. While I briefly considered private school teaching or criminology, it soon became clear that children’s nursing was my true passion.

What really drew me to this course was the wide range of opportunities it opens up, from nursing and social work to teaching and direct employment. That variety made it the perfect fit for my ambitions.”

Which key skills have you developed during your course?

“One of the biggest skills I’ve gained is communication – learning how to speak effectively with people, especially those in vulnerable situations.

Because I now work as a support worker alongside college, the course has helped me apply important skills like safeguarding and empathy in real-life settings. It’s boosted my confidence and taught me how to handle difficult situations calmly and professionally.”

How has the College supported you so far?

“The College has provided excellent support throughout my studies. Clear deadlines and helpful resources like PowerPoints and assignment guides kept me organised and focused.

“When I was unwell, staff were really supportive and gave me an extension without any added pressure, which made a big difference when I wasn’t feeling my best. On top of that, bursary support helped cover travel and meal costs, which made a huge difference.”

What part of the course have you enjoyed the most?

“Placement work has been the highlight of my experience. I completed mine as a community care worker, which gave me the chance to develop practical skills and build confidence while supporting people in a meaningful way.

This approach allowed me to gain practical skills while completing my assignments, making the learning experience much more rewarding and relevant.”

Do you have any advice for future students?

“My top advice is to keep on top of your assignments from the start. Leaving work until the last minute can cause unnecessary stress, but staying organised helps keep everything manageable.

By meeting deadlines and using the support available, you can really enjoy the course and avoid any last-minute panic.”

Where do you see yourself in the future?

“I’m excited to have been accepted to Sheffield Hallam University to study Children’s Nursing, a three-year course that will prepare me to become a qualified nurse.

With distinctions in all my units and just one assignment left to mark, I feel ready for this next chapter. The course’s focus on coursework over exams suited my learning style perfectly and gave me the confidence to succeed.”

Find out more about Health and Social Care courses at North Notts College