Health and Social Care Level 3 Extended Diploma (equivalent to 3 A Levels)

The vital services and essential support provided by health and social care workers can never be underestimated. It is a career for life where every individual is valued. Our Level 3 Health and Social Care course will give you the opportunity to gain an excellent introduction to a future career in this growing and exciting sector.

This course is available to study as an Extended Certificate (60-credit course, equivalent to 1 A Level) or an Extended Diploma (180-credit course, equivalent to 3 A Levels).

You will study topics including principles of health and social care, anatomy and physiology, person-centred care, mental health, physiological conditions and public health. You will gain an understanding of careers and roles in the health and social care sector, the different individuals you might support and work with, and the importance of best practice.

You will learn by applying your skills and knowledge to activities that are relevant to what happens in health and social care workplaces. There are opportunities to complete work placements, providing you with experience of care work and development of core skills.

In addition to your academic studies, you will be offered further enrichment activities linked to your classroom learning that will give you first-hand experience and boost your CV. Previously, this has included: achieving an accredited first aid certificate, participating in health and social care research projects, undertaking mental health training and collaborating with the local community to promote care and support of individuals with dementia, through the Dementia Friends scheme.

Teaching is by specialist staff who have the expert knowledge and industry experience to support your learning and future progression. By the end of year 2, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge you need to progress onto university, apprenticeships, employment or further specialist training, opening up a wide range of career opportunities such as nursing, midwifery, social work and paramedic.

Year 1 Modules

Principles of health and social care (60-credit only)

Person-centred approach to care (60-credit only)

Supporting people with mental health conditions (60-credit & 180-credit)

Building Positive Relationships (180-credit only)

Equality, Diversity and Rights (180-credit only)

Health, Safety and Security (180-credit only)

Infection Control (180-credit only)

Safeguarding (180-credit only)

Dementia (180-credit only)

Research Methods in Health, Social and Child Care (180-credit only)

Year 2 Modules

Supporting people with long-term physiological conditions (60-credit only)

Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care (60-credit & 180-credit)

Investigating Public Health (60-credit only & 180-credit)

Personalisation and a person-centred approach to care (180-credit only)

Supporting People with Learning Disabilities (180-credit only)

Promoting Positive Behaviour (180-credit only)

Sexual Health, Reproduction and Early Development Stages (180-credit only)

The Impact of long-term Physiological Conditions (180-credit only)

Promoting Health and Wellbeing (180-credit only)

Looked After Children (180-credit only)

40% Exam

60% Coursework

Exam Board: OCR

Five GCSEs at Grade 4 including:

Grade 4 in GCSE English Language

Merit in Level 2 Health & Social Care if taken

The Health and Social Care course equips students with versatile skills, enabling a diverse range of next steps after college.

Many students progress onto university courses including nursing (all fields), midwifery, paramedic science, social work, primary teaching, psychology and sociology.

Other students have secured employment or apprenticeships in practical roles such as clinical support, domiciliary care and early years’ education, as well as administrative roles in community healthcare settings.

Some students have used their skills to undertake gap years volunteering abroad.