The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) has launched its newly established School of Health and Social Care, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to preparing the future workforce for one of Wales’s most vital sectors.
The launch introduces a comprehensive portfolio of programmes designed to reflect the rapidly evolving needs of the health and social care landscape. Courses within the School include areas such as Health and Social Care, Public Health, Social Work, Counselling, and Leadership in Care. These programmes are tailored to equip students for a wide range of careers including care coordinators, social workers, support workers, community development officers, mental health practitioners, and health service managers.
With a strong emphasis on real-world application, the new curriculum equips students with the skills, confidence, and digital capabilities required to thrive in today’s dynamic workforce. Graduates will be well prepared for roles across the NHS, local authorities, third-sector organisations, and private care providers, as well as progression into specialist or postgraduate training.
Kalee Thomas, Academic Director, said: “Developed in close collaboration with industry partners, employers, and practice leaders, the updated programmes ensure graduates are career-ready and aligned with current professional standards. This industry-responsive approach reinforces UWTSD’s mission to deliver education that is both relevant and impactful.”
The School of Health and Social Care welcomes individuals at all stages of their journey, whether currently working in the sector, looking to advance their careers, or considering a new path. With flexible study options and progression routes, programmes support career development into roles such as senior care practitioners, team leaders, case managers, and policy advisors.
UWTSD’s Health and Social Care programmes are designed to provide students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to make a meaningful difference as allied workers, healthcare professionals, or researchers. The curriculum also explores the broader societal context of care, preparing graduates to support diverse communities, address health inequalities, and contribute to public health initiatives.
Students will learn from experienced lecturers who bring extensive industry expertise into the classroom. The School places a strong focus on nurturing confidence and building self-esteem, empowering graduates to deliver high-quality, compassionate care in roles such as family support workers, rehabilitation assistants, wellbeing coordinators, and community outreach specialists.
Kalee added: “Programmes are structured to support continuous development, enabling students to build knowledge and confidence year by year while maintaining flexibility to adapt their learning as their interests evolve. Graduates will leave not only with a recognised qualification but with the confidence and capability to succeed in the workplace.
“The launch of the School of Health and Social Care represents UWTSD’s ongoing dedication to supporting the health and wellbeing of communities across Wales by developing a skilled, compassionate, and future-ready workforce.”
Dr. Tom Howson, Head of Innovation and Transformation, added: “The Bevan Commission is delighted to congratulate the University of Wales Trinity Saint David on the opening of its School of Health and Social Care. This is a significant and timely development, which will inform and enable a more preventative and socially informed approach to health and care across Wales. The School’s focus on a more social model of health, and related workforce skills, is both necessary and closely aligned with the Bevan Commission’s thinking, which recognises that health and care is shaped not only by services, but by the wider social and community conditions that support wellbeing. We look forward to working alongside the School and supporting its important contribution to the future of health and care in Wales over the years to come.”
