Free BTEC Health and Social Care Course in Slough – The Westgate School
CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding body
About this course
Free BTEC in Health and Social Care in Slough. Classes run at The Westgate School. This Level 3 BTEC in Health and Social Care course is equivalent in size to one A Level, so you can study it alongside other subjects as part of a broader programme. Over two years of full-time daytime study, you'll cover the foundations of health and social care, including how services are organised, human development, and the values that underpin care work. You'll need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Science.
Who this course is for
If you're thinking about a career in health and social care but not ready to commit entirely to a purely work related course, the National Extended Certificate gives you an introduction to the sector whilst allowing you to study other subjects alongside it. Equivalent in size to one A Level, if you take it as part of a programme of study that includes other work related or academic Level 3 qualifications it can help you to move on to to a wide range of higher education and training opportunities.
Entry requirements
Minimum 5 GCSE's including English and Science at grade 4 (C) or above.
What you will learn
You'll explore how health and social care services are structured and delivered in the UK.
You'll study human growth and development across the life stages.
You'll examine the values and principles that underpin care practice, including dignity and safeguarding.
You'll learn about factors that affect health and wellbeing, including social, economic, and environmental influences.
You'll develop an understanding of communication in health and social care settings.
You'll investigate anatomy and physiology relevant to care work.
How you will learn
The BTEC is assessed through a mix of internally assessed assignments and externally set examinations. Assignments are completed in class and independently, with tasks tied to real care scenarios. Some units are assessed by Pearson Edexcel through set tasks or written exams. Classes are delivered in person at The Westgate School during the daytime.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Westgate School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: entry-level role in residential or home care
Healthcare support worker: supporting clinical staff in NHS or private settings
Social care worker: supporting adults or children in community settings
Mental health support worker: working with people experiencing mental health challenges
Early years practitioner: working with young children in care or education settings
What you could study next
Level 3 A Levels: combining this BTEC with A Levels can strengthen university applications.
BTEC National Diploma or Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care: a larger qualification if you want to go deeper into the sector before university.
BSc Nursing, Social Work, or Allied Health degree: many universities accept this BTEC as part of an entry offer for health-related degrees.
Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (NVQ route): if you move into paid care work and want a work-based qualification alongside it.
