Is Level 3 Right for You?
This course is for you if you've completed your CPCAB Level 2 and you're ready to deepen your skills, understanding, and self-awareness as you prepare for professional counselling work.
You've Completed CPCAB Level 2
Whether with us or elsewhere, you've built your foundation and you're ready for the next step.
You're Ready for Deeper Work
Level 3 isn't just about skills – it's about understanding yourself more fully to support others authentically.
You Want to Become a Counsellor
Prepare for agency work, supervision, and extended client sessions – or progress to your MSc in Counselling.
What Changes from Level 2 to Level 3?
Level 3 builds on everything you learned in Level 2, but the depth and focus shift significantly. You'll move from demonstrating individual skills to integrating them into who you are as a developing counsellor.
CPCAB Level 2:
The Foundation
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Single-session skills practice
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"Demonstrate, show, explain" criteria
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Introduction to theory and self-awareness
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90 guided learning hours
CPCAB Level 3:
Integration & Depth
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Extended client work over multiple sessions
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Accumulative, reflective criteria
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Theory integrated with self-understanding
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Supervision sessions to inform your practice
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90 guided hours, 190+ total qualification hours
Why Continue Your Training with Us?
For Our Current Students: You're Already Home
You know our tutors. You trust our approach. You've experienced the safety and depth of our learning environment. Continuing with us means no new systems to learn, no unfamiliar processes – just the natural next step in your journey with people who already know and support you.
For Students Joining from Elsewhere: Welcome
If you completed Level 2 with another provider, you're very welcome here. We understand that choosing a new training provider takes courage, especially when you're investing in something so personal. Here's what makes The School of Counselling different:
Experiential, not box-ticking – We focus on who you're becoming, not just what you can demonstrate
Relational learning – Your tutors are qualified, practicing counsellors who hold the emotional intensity of this work
Adult learner approach – You're nurtured at your own pace, not policed to success
Collaborative, active environment – Tutors as facilitators, not lecturers
Authentic self-discovery – We believe the more authentic you become, the more you invite clients to do the same
Planning Your MSc in Counselling?
Most MSc programmes in Counselling require both CPCAB Level 2 and Level 3 for entry. Completing both with us puts you on the fastest route to postgraduate study.
Level 2
Level 3
MSc/MA Ready
Fast-track option: Complete our 18-week intensive Level 3 starting February 2026, and you could be ready for MSc/MA applications by summer.
Two Pathways, Same Qualification
Choose the pace that fits your life and goals. Both courses lead to the full CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies.
18-Week Intensive
📅 Start Date: Wednesday, 25th February 2026
⏰ Schedule: Wednesdays, 9:30am - 3:00pm
📚 Duration: 18 weeks (UK term dates)
💰 Investment: £1,995
📖 Study Commitment: 3+ hours per week (plus lesson time)
Fast-track your training with one immersive day per week. Perfect for those who can dedicate Wednesdays, want to complete quickly, or are preparing for MSc applications.
Best for:
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Career changers ready to focus intensively- Students applying for MSc programmes
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Those who prefer immersive, emotionally intensive learning
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Anyone who can free up Wednesdays
30-Week Standard
📅 Start Date: September 2026
⏰ Schedule: TBC (evenings/mornings available)
📚 Duration: 30 weeks
💰 Investment: £1,495
📖 Study Commitment: 3+ hours per week (plus lesson time)
Study at a more manageable pace over 30 weeks. Ideal for busy professionals, parents, or anyone who needs flexibility around work and life commitments.
Best for:
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Working professionals
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Parents with family commitments
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Those who prefer steady, gradual learning
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Students not applying to MSc immediately
What You'll Learn in Level 3
CPCAB Level 3 prepares you for real-world counselling practice, whether in an agency setting or as a foundation for further training. Here's what your 18 or 30 weeks will cover:
Self-Awareness & Authenticity
Continue your journey of self-discovery – understanding your patterns, triggers, and strengths.
Preparation for Agency Work
Build the confidence and competence to work professionally in counselling agencies or further training.
Theory Integrated with Self
Explore counselling theory not as abstract concepts, but as frameworks for understanding yourself and others.
Ethical Practice
Deepen your understanding of boundaries, confidentiality, and ethical dilemmas in real-world contexts.
Supervision Skills
Learn to reflect on your practice, receive supervision, and use feedback to grow as a counsellor.
Extended Client Work
Move beyond single sessions to work with the same "client" over multiple weeks, building depth and therapeutic relationship.
90 guided learning hours | 190+ total qualification hours | No placement hours required
Learning That Goes Beyond Box-Ticking
At The School of Counselling, we don't just help you pass assessments – we help you become the counsellor you want to be. Our approach is experiential, relational, and deeply human.
What a Typical Lesson Looks Like
Every lesson is a blend of theory, discussion, and practice. You'll work individually, in pairs, in small groups, and as a whole group – using tools like Padlet and breakout rooms to keep learning dynamic and engaging. It's not about staring at a screen listening to a tutor lecture; it's about actively participating in your own growth.
Individual Reflection
Process new ideas and connect them to your own experience
Whole Group Discussions
Explore concepts together, facilitated by your tutor
Pair & Small Group Work
Practice skills, receive peer feedback, and learn from others' perspectives
Skills Practice Sessions
Integrate learning through real counselling practice every lesson
Between Lessons
3+ hours per week for reading, reflection, and self-study
Your Tutors: Qualified Counsellors, Not Just Teachers
All our tutors are qualified, practicing counsellors – many person-centred at heart, but integrative in approach. We bring together experienced practitioners and recently qualified counsellors because both perspectives enrich your learning. They're not here to police your progress; they're here to hold you through the emotional intensity of this journey and facilitate your growth as an adult learner.
Entry Requirements
To enrol in our CPCAB Level 3 course, you'll need:
CPCAB Level 2 qualification (must be CPCAB-accredited)
Age 19 or older
Commitment to 3+ hours per week self-study (in addition to lesson time)
Completion of an informal interview (more on that below)
Do I need counselling experience or placement hours?
No. Level 3 does not require you to work with real clients or secure placement hours. All your practice happens within the course in a safe, supervised environment.
How to Apply
Applying for Level 3 is straightforward. Here's what happens from enquiry to enrolment:
1
Enquire
Call us on 01844 612 510 or fill in the application form. Let us know which course interests you and a bit about your Level 2 experience.
2
Schedule Your Interview
We'll arrange an informal interview within a week. This isn't a test – it's a chance for us to get to know you, hear about your Level 2 journey, and understand what you hope to gain from Level 3.
3
Receive Your Offer
You'll hear back from us within 24 hours with your course offer.
4
Secure Your Place
Accept your place with a £400 deposit (which includes your CPCAB registration fee). Payment plans are available to spread the cost.
5
Start Your Journey
For the February intensive, you'll begin on Wednesday, 25th February 2026.
Enquiring now in November? You'll have plenty of time to complete the application process and secure your place for February.
Course Fees & Payment Options
We believe in transparency. Here's what you'll invest to complete your CPCAB Level 3:
18-Week Intensive
£1,995
30-Week Standard
£1,495
Both courses include:
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90 guided learning hours with qualified counsellor tutors
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All course materials and resources
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CPCAB registration fee
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Ongoing tutorial support
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Access to online learning tools (Padlet, breakout rooms, etc.)
Why is this more expensive than other providers?
Because we're not just helping you tick boxes. You're investing in small group sizes, qualified counsellor tutors with real-world experience, an experiential learning approach, and a supportive environment that holds you through the emotional intensity of this work. This is premium training that prepares you not just to pass, but to thrive.
Payment Plans Available
We're happy to spread the cost over installments:
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£400 deposit to secure your place (includes CPCAB registration)
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Remaining balance in monthly installments
Frequently Asked Questions
I completed my Level 2 with another provider. Can I join your Level 3?
Absolutely! As long as you have a CPCAB Level 2 qualification, you're welcome. We understand it can feel daunting to join a new provider, but we'll make sure you feel supported from day one.
What if I did my Level 2 a while ago – am I still ready for Level 3?
If you've completed CPCAB Level 2, you have the foundation you need. During your interview, we'll talk through your experience and any concerns you have about readiness.
I'm not very academic. Will I struggle with Level 3?
You don't need to be "academic" to succeed. Our tutors are skilled at supporting learners at all levels, and we focus on experiential learning, not just essays. If you have additional learning needs, we'll work with you to meet them.
How much time do I really need outside of lessons?
Plan for at least 3 hours per week for reading, reflection, and self-study. Some weeks may need more, especially around assignments, but we'll guide you through the workload.
Can I switch from the 30-week to the 18-week course (or vice versa)?
Potentially, if spaces are available. Talk to us during your interview about which pace feels right for you.
Do I need to find my own placement or work with real clients?
No. Level 3 doesn't require placement hours. All your skills practice happens within the course in a safe, supported environment.
What happens after Level 3? Can I start working as a counsellor?
After Level 3, you could work in a voluntary or assistant capacity in some settings, but most people continue to Level 4 (Diploma) to become a fully qualified counsellor. Level 3 also prepares you for MSc programmes in counselling.
What technology do I need?
A laptop or desktop with a webcam, microphone, and stable internet connection. We use Zoom for lessons and tools like Padlet for activities. Everything is browser-based – no special software needed.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you're continuing with us from Level 2 or joining us for the first time, we're here to support your journey.