Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Shaftesbury

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryBlended learning
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 BTEC National in Health and Social Care Course in Shaftesbury. Classes run at Shaftesbury School, with a mix of online study and time at the centre. You'll need 4 to 5 GCSEs including English and maths at grade 4 or above to enrol. The course runs full-time over two years and covers the knowledge and skills needed to work across health and social care settings. The level 3 BTEC National in Health and Social Care qualification is awarded by Pearson Edexcel.

Who this course is for

The NHS employs 1.4 million people, and social care 1.6 million people, and will have over half a million extra jobs available by 2030. (healthcareers.nhs.co.uk). There are over 350 different careers to choose from and there is a role for everyone with the right skills and values. If you are committed to making a positive difference to people?s lives in this ever-growing health & social care industry; if you are patient and enthusiastic, then this is the course for you. Working in any career in the health or social care industry is extremely rewarding and will provide you with great job satisfaction.

Entry requirements

4-5 GCSE's including English and maths at grade 4 or above.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how the human body works and how illness and disease affect it.
  • You'll study the principles of care, including person-centred approaches and safeguarding.
  • You'll examine how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
  • You'll develop understanding of equality, diversity, and rights in care settings.
  • You'll learn how to communicate effectively with individuals, families, and colleagues.
  • You'll investigate the factors that affect health and wellbeing across a person's life.
  • You'll build knowledge of research methods used in health and social care.

How you will learn

The BTEC National is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally set examinations. Assignments are completed over time and marked by your tutors; some units are assessed by Pearson Edexcel through set tasks or exams. Blended delivery means some study and research takes place online, with taught sessions and assignment support at Shaftesbury School.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Shaftesbury School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: supporting people in residential or home care settings.
  • Healthcare support worker: assisting clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
  • Mental health support worker: working with people experiencing mental health conditions.
  • Learning disability support worker: supporting adults or children with learning disabilities.
  • Early years practitioner: working with young children in nursery or school settings.
  • Social care worker: helping vulnerable adults or families access support services.

What you could study next

The level 3 BTEC National in Health and Social Care classes can lead to further study in several directions. A Level 4 or Level 5 Higher National Certificate (HNC or HND) in Health and Social Care takes your knowledge further. Many learners use this qualification to apply for a nursing, social work, or occupational therapy degree. A Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care is an alternative route if you want to move directly into a vocational NVQ-style qualification recognised in care settings.

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