Free BTEC in Health and Social Care course in Smethwick. Classes run at Shireland Collegiate Academy, full-time during the day. This level 3 btec in health and social care course takes two years to complete. You'll need at least grade 5 in five GCSE subjects, including English and Maths, to be considered. The course covers the knowledge and skills that underpin careers across health, social care, and related services. It opens routes into degree programmes in nursing, midwifery, social work, physiotherapy, and more.
Who this course is for
By studying the BTEC Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care you will be able to progress in the sector through degree programs in nursing, midwifery, social work, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and pharmacy for example. There are more than 300 distinct career paths in this sector. The sector is a major employer; almost four million people across the UK. You can gain an enormous sense of personal achievement by making a positive difference to people’s lives. And a career in social care offers long-term employment prospects, with great opportunities for promotion and progression.
Entry requirements
Minimum level 5 in five separate subjects at GCSE including English and Mathematics
What you will learn
You'll explore the principles of health, wellbeing, and care in the UK.
You'll study human development across the life stages.
You'll learn how to support individuals with different care needs.
You'll examine safeguarding, equality, and person-centred values in care settings.
You'll develop understanding of anatomy, physiology, and common health conditions.
You'll build knowledge of communication skills used in health and social care contexts.
How you will learn
The BTEC National Extended Certificate is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations set by Pearson Edexcel. Assignments are completed throughout the course and marked by your tutors. External assessments test your knowledge under timed conditions. Classes are delivered in the classroom at Shireland Collegiate Academy on a full-time daytime basis over two years.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Shireland Collegiate Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support people in residential or home care settings.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Social care worker: work with vulnerable adults or children in the community.
Mental health support worker: provide day-to-day support for people with mental health needs.
Early years practitioner: work with young children in nursery or care settings.
Pharmacy assistant: support dispensing and patient care in a pharmacy.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BSc in Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, or Children's): the most direct university route from this qualification, leading to NMC registration.
BSc in Social Work: leads to a career as a qualified social worker.
BSc in Midwifery or Physiotherapy: specialist degree routes open to applicants with this BTEC.
Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (NVQ): a work-based alternative if you move into employment and want a vocational qualification alongside your role.
