Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Middlesbrough. Classes run at Stokesley School. You'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Science. This two-year, full-time daytime health and social care course covers the NHS, local authority care services, and independent care settings. It's an Alternative Academic Qualification (AAQ), designed as a high-quality alternative to A Levels for students aged 16 and over. A level 3 health and social care qualification that opens doors to further study or entry-level roles in the sector.
Who this course is for
The health and social care sector employs vast numbers of people across the country, within a varied range of job roles. In fact, it's the biggest employment sector in the UK and includes elements of the NHS, local authority adult and child care services, and a range of independent providers that provide care in a range of settings. Alternative Academic qualifications (AAQ) are created for students aged 16+ in either school or Further Education. A high-quality
alternative to A Levels. Units complement each other and students are continually assessed throughout Year 12 and 13 making this course accessible for all learning needs.
Entry requirements
Applicants must have at least 5 GCSE passes at grade 4 and above, including English Language and Science. Having a Level 2 Pass or above in Health and Social Care, Child Development is a bonus, but isn’t essential to get onto the course.
What you will learn
You'll explore how health and social care services are structured across the NHS, local authorities, and independent providers.
You'll study the principles of care, including safeguarding, person-centred approaches, and duty of care.
You'll examine human development across the life span and how it relates to health and wellbeing.
You'll investigate factors that affect health and wellbeing, including social, economic, and environmental influences.
You'll develop understanding of communication in care settings and how to apply it professionally.
You'll learn about health conditions, their management, and the role of care workers in supporting individuals.
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom at Stokesley School, with full-time daytime attendance over two years. Assessment combines written assignments, case studies, and externally assessed components set by OCR. Some units are internally assessed by your teachers; others are assessed through timed written tasks. Your work is marked against OCR's mark schemes throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Stokesley School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: entry-level support role in residential or home care
Healthcare support worker: assisting clinical staff in NHS or private settings
Support worker: working with adults or children with additional needs
Early years practitioner: supporting children's development in nursery or school settings
Community care worker: delivering care to people in their own homes
Social care administrator: coordination and admin within care organisations
What you could study next
Level 3 T Level in Health (HTQ): a technical qualification with an industry placement, for those wanting a more vocational route into health careers.
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions): prepares you for university courses in nursing, social work, or allied health.
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training: if you want to move into teaching or training within the care sector.
Degree in Social Work, Nursing, or Health and Social Care: the next step for those aiming at registered professional roles.
