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Free BTEC Health and Social Care Course in Shefford

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start4 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free BTEC in Health and Social Care in Shefford. Classes run at Samuel Whitbread Academy. This two-year, full-time daytime course covers the health and social care sector and carries the same size as one A Level. You'll need a Grade 4 or above in GCSE English Language or Literature and an average point score of 4.0 to join. The course covers how health and social care services work, the people who use them, and the values that underpin good care.

Who this course is for

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care aims to provide an introduction to the sector. It is for students who are interested in learning about the health and social care sector as part of a balanced programme of study. It is equivalent in size to one A Level.

Entry requirements

APS 4.0. Grade 4 in GCSE English Language or Literature.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
  • You'll study human growth and development across the life stages.
  • You'll examine the values and principles that guide care practice, including dignity and person-centred care.
  • You'll learn how to communicate effectively with people who use care services.
  • You'll investigate the factors that affect health and wellbeing, including social, economic, and environmental influences.
  • You'll develop understanding of safeguarding and the duty of care in health and social care settings.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Samuel Whitbread Academy. Assessment combines internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations, as set by Pearson Edexcel for the BTEC National Extended Certificate. Assignments are completed throughout the course and marked against set criteria. Examinations test your knowledge of core units under timed conditions.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Samuel Whitbread Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: support adults or older people with daily living
  • Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings
  • Mental health support worker: work alongside people with mental health needs
  • Learning disability support worker: provide day-to-day care and support
  • Early years practitioner: work with young children in care or education settings
  • Social care worker: support vulnerable adults in community or residential settings

What you could study next

A Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate is a strong foundation for further study or work in the sector. You could progress to a Level 4 or Level 5 Diploma in Health and Social Care for senior or supervisory roles. Many students use this qualification to apply for university courses in nursing, social work, or occupational therapy. A Pearson BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Health and Social Care is another option if you want a vocational higher education route.

Apply on samuelwhitbread.org.uk →
Apply now →

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