Free Level 3 BTEC National in Health and Social Care Course in Gloucester. Classes run at St Peter's Catholic High School and Sixth Form Centre. This two-year, full-time daytime course is equivalent in size to one A Level and is designed to sit alongside two A Levels. You'll develop applied knowledge and skills across health and social care, building the subject understanding universities look for. Entry requires a Merit in Level 2 Health and Social Care. The course supports progression to higher education and graduate-level careers in health and social care.
Who this course is for
The Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Health and
Social Care (Extended Certificate) is an Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ) designed
for post-16 students with an interest in health and social care and aiming to progress to
higher education as a route to graduate level employment.
Equivalent to one A Level in size, it is suitable for students looking to develop their applied
knowledge and skills in health and social care alongside two A Levels.
Entry requirements
Merit Level 2 Health and Social Care
What you will learn
You'll explore the principles of health and social care and how they apply in practice.
You'll study human development across the life stages and its relevance to care settings.
You'll examine how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
You'll develop understanding of safeguarding, duty of care, and person-centred values.
You'll analyse factors affecting health and wellbeing, including social, economic, and environmental influences.
You'll apply research and analytical skills to health and social care topics.
You'll build communication skills relevant to working with individuals in care settings.
How you will learn
The Extended Certificate combines internally assessed coursework with externally assessed examinations set by Pearson Edexcel. Classroom-based learning at St Peter's Catholic High School and Sixth Form Centre covers both theory and applied content. You'll complete assignments and projects assessed by your teachers, alongside timed written exams. The qualification has 360 guided learning hours, with a total qualification time of 474 hours.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. St Peter's Catholic High School and Sixth Form Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support people with daily living in care homes or at home.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Social care worker: work with vulnerable adults or children in community settings.
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 childcare settings.
Residential support worker: support adults or young people in residential care.
What you could study next
BSc (Hons) Nursing: the most direct university route for those aiming to become a registered nurse.
BSc (Hons) Social Work: leads to a career as a qualified social worker.
BSc (Hons) Midwifery: for those interested in maternity care.
Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care: a shorter higher education option if you want to work while you study.
T Level in Health: a technical alternative if you decide to stay in further education and want more workplace experience.
