Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Ledbury. Classes run at John Masefield High School. This two-year, full-time daytime health and social care course covers the sector through applied learning, with four mandatory units and two optional units. Mandatory topics include building positive relationships, equality and diversity, and rights in health and social care. Entry requires a minimum GCSE Grade 5 in English and Science. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm the course is the right fit.
Who this course is for
The Extended Certificate course is equivalent to 1 A Level (360 Guided Learning Hours). It is taught over 4 periods a week with additional directed and supervised study periods. The course provides an introduction to the Health and Social Care sector through applied learning. Four mandatory and two optional units are covered. Mandatory Units for the Extended Certificate �U1 Building Positive Relationships in Health and Social Care �U2 Equality, Diversity and Rights in Health and Social Care �U3 Health, Safety and Security in Health and Social Care �U4 Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care Additional Optional Units As well as the mandatory Units 1, 2, 3 and 4, a further two units are covered for the Extended Certificate. These are likely to be; �U24 Public Health �U5 Infection Control
Entry requirements
A minimum GCSE Grade 5 in English and Science. Please note that Nursing and related degree courses also require a minimum of Grade 4 in Maths
What you will learn
You'll explore how to build positive relationships in health and social care settings.
You'll study equality, diversity, and rights as they apply to health and social care practice.
You'll examine how care services are organised and delivered.
You'll apply your learning to real scenarios through coursework and directed study.
You'll develop knowledge of safeguarding, person-centred care, and professional values.
You'll investigate optional specialist topics alongside the core mandatory content.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons, four periods a week, with additional directed and supervised study. The course uses applied learning, meaning you connect theory directly to health and social care practice. Assessment is through a combination of coursework and externally assessed units, as required by OCR for this qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. John Masefield High School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support people in residential or home care settings.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Social care worker: work with adults or children in community services.
Mental health support worker: support people with mental health needs.
Early years practitioner: work in childcare or nursery settings.
Residential support worker: provide care in supported living environments.
What you could study next
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care: a broader qualification covering more units, often required for higher-level roles.
T Level in Health (with a specialism in Supporting the Adult Nursing Team or similar): a technical route combining study with an industry placement.
Foundation Degree or BSc in Nursing, Social Work, or Allied Health: the next step if you're aiming for a registered profession. Note that nursing and related degree courses typically require at least GCSE Grade 4 in Maths alongside this qualification.
