Free BTEC in Health and Social Care in Chester-le-Street. Classes run at Hermitage Academy. You'll need five GCSEs at grades 4 to 9, including Maths and English, to join this full-time daytime course. Over two years, you'll study the knowledge and skills that underpin work in health and social care settings, from understanding human development to supporting individuals with care needs. The Level 3 BTEC in Health and Social Care qualification is a Pearson Edexcel course that carries UCAS points, so it can support applications to university as well as entry into care roles.
Who this course is for
16-19 years
Entry requirements
5 GCSE grades 4-9 including Maths and English
What you will learn
You'll explore human growth and development across the life stages.
You'll study how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
You'll learn how to support individuals' physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
You'll examine safeguarding principles and how they apply in care settings.
You'll develop understanding of equality, diversity, and rights in health and social care.
You'll learn how to communicate effectively with individuals who have different needs.
You'll explore the impact of health conditions and life events on individuals and their families.
How you will learn
BTEC qualifications are assessed mainly through coursework and assignments rather than final exams. You'll complete unit-based assignments throughout the two years, building a portfolio of evidence. Some units may include externally assessed tasks set by Pearson Edexcel. Classes are delivered in the classroom at Hermitage Academy, with tutor-led sessions, group work, and independent study.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Hermitage Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: supporting adults or older people with daily living.
Healthcare support worker: assisting clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Support worker: working with people with learning disabilities or mental health needs.
Early years practitioner: working in nursery or childcare settings.
Residential care worker: providing support in care homes.
Community care worker: delivering care in people's own homes.
What you could study next
Level 3 BTEC National Diploma or Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care: a larger qualification if you want to deepen your study before applying to university.
Level 4 or Level 5 Diploma in Health and Social Care: a vocational route into senior or supervisory care roles.
Foundation Degree or BSc in Nursing, Social Work, or a related health subject: the BTEC National Extended Certificate earns UCAS points that count toward university entry.
