Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Ipswich. Classes run at Suffolk New College. You'll need five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including maths and/or English, or a Level 2 qualification with maths and/or English at Grade 4 or above. This full-time, daytime health and social care qualification covers human development, mental health, anatomy, safeguarding, and working in care settings. The course takes one year to complete. It's a strong foundation for roles in adult social care, the NHS, and related services.
Who this course is for
Please see view the course at http://www.suffolk.ac.uk/courses
Entry requirements
Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including maths and/or English, or a Level 2 qualification plus maths and/or English at Grade 4 or above. Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) must be in place at enrolment and students must register with the DBS Update Service.
What you will learn
You'll explore human growth and development across the life span.
You'll study anatomy, physiology, and how the body works in health and disease.
You'll learn about mental health, wellbeing, and how care services support people.
You'll understand safeguarding principles and how to protect vulnerable adults and children.
You'll examine how health and social care services are organised and funded in the UK.
You'll develop communication skills for working with service users, families, and colleagues.
You'll look at equality, diversity, and rights in care settings.
How you will learn
The BTEC Extended Diploma is assessed through a mix of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed exams set by Pearson Edexcel. Assignments are coursework-based, completed throughout the year. External assessments test your knowledge under timed conditions. Classes are delivered in person at Suffolk New College during daytime hours, giving you regular contact with tutors and structured learning across the full year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Suffolk New College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support adults with daily living in care homes or at home.
Support worker: work with people with learning disabilities or mental health needs.
Healthcare assistant: assist clinical staff in NHS hospitals or GP surgeries.
Community care worker: deliver care in people's own homes.
Residential childcare worker: support young people in residential settings.
Mental health support worker: work alongside mental health teams in community services.
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training (if you want to move into teaching or training in health and social care).
Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care: the next step for senior care roles and team leader positions.
Foundation Degree or BSc in Nursing, Social Work, or Health and Social Care: many universities accept the BTEC National Extended Diploma for degree entry, opening routes to registered professional roles.
