Free BTEC in Health and Social Care in Hitchin. Classes run at The Priory School Hitchin, starting in Year 12. This two-year, full-time daytime course covers the knowledge and skills behind health, care, and social care practice. You'll explore human development, anatomy, safeguarding, and how care services are organised in the UK. The level 3 BTEC in health and social care qualification is a Pearson Edexcel qualification that carries UCAS points, so it can support applications to university nursing, social work, or healthcare courses. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths.
Who this course is for
Students entering Year 12
Entry requirements
The standard entry requirement for the Hitchin Consortium is five Grade 9-4 GCSE's or equivalent, including English & Maths at Grade 4 or above. Most subjects will have additional entry requirements which are detailed in our prospectus on each school website.
What you will learn
You'll explore human growth and development across the life stages.
You'll study anatomy and physiology relevant to health and care settings.
You'll learn how health and social care services are structured and funded in the UK.
You'll examine safeguarding principles and legislation that protect vulnerable people.
You'll develop understanding of person-centred values and care planning.
You'll analyse factors that affect health and wellbeing, including social and environmental influences.
How you will learn
The BTEC National Extended Certificate is assessed through a mix of internally assessed assignments and at least one externally assessed exam set by Pearson Edexcel. Internal units are assessed through written reports, case studies, and research tasks marked by your teachers and moderated externally. The external assessment tests core knowledge under timed conditions. Classroom sessions combine taught content with independent research and group discussion.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Priory School Hitchin will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support adults or older people in care settings.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Support worker: work with people with learning disabilities or mental health needs.
Early years practitioner: work in nursery or childcare settings with young children.
Community health worker: deliver health promotion and outreach support.
Residential support worker: provide care in supported living or residential homes.
What you could study next
T Level in Health (HTQ equivalent): a two-year technical qualification with a substantial industry placement, suited to those wanting a more practice-based route into health careers.
Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (NVQ): work-based qualification for those already in a care role who want a formal credential.
Degree in Nursing, Social Work, or Midwifery: the BTEC National Extended Certificate carries UCAS points and is accepted by many universities for health-related degree programmes.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Health and Social Care: a Level 4 option if you want to progress without going straight to a full degree.
