Free BTEC Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Lancaster

CostFREE
Duration24 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start4 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Lancaster. Classes run at Our Lady's Catholic College. This is a two-year, full-time daytime course that combines practical and theoretical study across health and social care. The level 3 BTEC health and social care qualification is well regarded by both universities and employers, and develops the practical and professional skills needed in care settings. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including GCSE English and GCSE Maths at grade 4.

Who this course is for

The course has more practical elements than traditional A Level courses. It will include the opportunity to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life. Universities and employers value BTEC Nationals highly because they prove that you:

•are prepared for the world of work

•are committed to your chosen career

•have robust practical and theoretical skills.

Entry requirements

5 GCSE or equivalent pass at grade 4 or higher (at least one of which is in Maths or English) GCSE English and GCSE Maths—Grade 4

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical skills used in health and social care settings.
  • You'll study the values and principles that underpin care work.
  • You'll explore human development across the life span.
  • You'll learn how health conditions affect individuals and their care needs.
  • You'll build communication skills relevant to working with service users.
  • You'll develop an understanding of safeguarding and duty of care.
  • You'll practise the personal and professional attributes employers look for in care roles.

How you will learn

Learning is classroom based, with a mix of practical activities and written work. BTEC Nationals are assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally set assessments. Assignments are set and marked at the centre, while some units are assessed through exams or tasks set by Pearson Edexcel. There are no traditional end-of-year exams for every unit; much of your work is built up and assessed throughout the two years.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Our Lady's Catholic College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: support adults in residential or home care settings.
  • Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
  • Support worker: work with adults with learning disabilities or mental health needs.
  • Early years practitioner: work in childcare or nursery settings with this foundation.
  • Community care worker: provide care and support in people's own homes.
  • Social care administrator: coordination and admin roles within care organisations.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Health and Social Care: the work-based qualification many employers require for senior care roles.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions): a route into nursing, social work, or allied health degrees if you want to progress to university.
  • Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care: a two-year higher education qualification, often available part-time alongside work.
  • Nursing Associate or Nursing Degree Apprenticeship: for those aiming toward registered nursing.

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