Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Harrogate. Classes run at St Aidan's and St John Fisher's Associated Sixth Form. You'll need at least four GCSEs at grade 4, including grade 4 in English and Science. The course takes two years full-time and covers the knowledge and applied skills needed for careers in health, social care, and related fields. It's a strong route into higher education, including degrees in nursing, social work, midwifery, and occupational therapy.
Who this course is for
The applied approach of course content prepares students
well for Higher Education. Students gain the understanding
and skills needed to become a successful professional on a
related career pathway including Midwifery, Primary school
Teaching, Occupational Therapy, Social Work, Childcare,
Paramedics, Counselling and Mental Health Nursing amongst
many others. Skills are transferable and some candidates
successfully choose alternative career pathways, away from the
subject area.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 4 GCSE subjects at grade 4
Grade 4 in GCSE English
Grade 4 in GCSE Science
What you will learn
You'll explore how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
You'll study human development across the life stages and how it affects health and wellbeing.
You'll examine the values and ethics that underpin professional practice in care settings.
You'll develop understanding of safeguarding, equality, and diversity in health and social care.
You'll learn how to assess and support individuals with different care needs.
You'll build applied skills through case studies and practical scenarios relevant to real care roles.
How you will learn
The Cambridge Technical is assessed through a mix of internally assessed coursework and externally assessed exams. Coursework units are completed in class and submitted for marking. Exam units are sat at set points during the two years. Classroom sessions combine taught content with applied tasks, case studies, and group work. OCR sets and marks the external assessments.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. St Aidan's and St John Fisher's Associated Sixth Form 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.
Mental health support worker: work alongside mental health teams.
Childcare worker: support children's development in nursery or school settings.
Social care worker: help individuals and families access support services.
Community support worker: provide care and assistance in people's homes.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BSc in Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, or Children's): the most direct route for those aiming to register as a nurse.
BA Social Work: required to practise as a qualified social worker.
BSc Midwifery: for those aiming toward midwifery as a career.
BSc Occupational Therapy: leads to registration as an occupational therapist.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Health and Social Care: a shorter higher education option if you want to step into work sooner.
