Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Birmingham – Matthew Boulton College

CostFREE
Duration42 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start31 Aug 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Matthew Boulton College, full-time during the day. To enrol, you'll need four GCSEs at grades 9 - 4 (A - C), including English, Maths, and a Science. A Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care at Merit or above is also accepted. Over 42 weeks, you'll build a broad foundation in care sector knowledge and skills, covering the key areas employers look for in health and social care roles.

Who this course is for

Start your journey towards a rewarding career in health and social care, where you�ll make a real difference in people�s lives. This one-year course offers a broad foundation in care sector knowledge and skills, with the opportunity to progress to the Extended Diploma in Year 2.

Entry requirements

You�ll need four GCSEs at grades 9�4 (A�C), including English, Maths, and a Science. Alternatively, a Level 2 Diploma in Health & Social Care with a Merit grade or above is accepted.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the principles of health, wellbeing, and person-centred care.
  • You'll study how individuals are supported across different care settings.
  • You'll develop understanding of safeguarding, equality, and diversity in care.
  • You'll learn how communication skills apply in health and social care contexts.
  • You'll examine anatomy, physiology, and how the body is affected by illness.
  • You'll investigate the role of organisations and professionals in the care sector.
  • You'll build knowledge of mental health, dementia, and long-term conditions.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Matthew Boulton College, combining taught lessons with coursework assignments. Assessment is primarily through internally assessed units, with some externally assessed components set and marked by Pearson Edexcel. You'll complete assignments, reports, and case studies throughout the year rather than sitting a single end-of-year exam.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Matthew Boulton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: support people in their homes or residential settings.
  • Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
  • Mental health support worker: work alongside people with mental health needs.
  • Learning disability support worker: provide day-to-day support and independence.
  • Senior care assistant: take on a lead role in a care team after experience.
  • Reablement support worker: help people regain independence after illness.

What you could study next

  • BTEC National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care (Year 2): the natural next step if you complete the first year at Matthew Boulton College, deepening your specialist knowledge.
  • Level 4 or 5 Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Health and Social Care: moves you toward management or specialist roles.
  • Nursing or social work degree: the Level 3 health and social care qualification is a recognised entry route into many university programmes in these fields.

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