Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Newton Abbot. Classes run at South Dartmoor Community College. You'll need six GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Science, to enrol. This two-year full-time course covers the knowledge and skills needed to work in health and social care settings, from understanding human development to supporting people with care needs. It's a substantial level 3 health and social care qualification that can open doors to employment or higher education in the sector.
Who this course is for
16-19 years
Entry requirements
Six GCSE's grade 4 or above to include English and Science.
What you will learn
You'll explore human growth, development, and the factors that affect health and wellbeing.
You'll learn how to support individuals with physical, emotional, and social care needs.
You'll study safeguarding principles and how to protect vulnerable people.
You'll understand equality, diversity, and rights in health and social care contexts.
You'll examine how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
You'll develop communication skills for working with service users, families, and colleagues.
You'll learn about anatomy, physiology, and common health conditions relevant to care work.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons, combining written assignments, case studies, and practical tasks. Assessment is a mix of internally assessed coursework and externally assessed examinations set by OCR. Units are assessed as you progress through the two years, so your work builds toward the full qualification rather than relying on a single set of final exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Dartmoor Community College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: supporting adults or older people in care homes or at home.
Healthcare support worker: assisting clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Support worker: working with people with learning disabilities or mental health needs.
Early years practitioner: working in nurseries or children's centres with a level 3 health and social care qualification as a foundation.
Community care worker: providing personal care and support in people's homes.
Residential childcare worker: supporting young people in residential settings.
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (NVQ): the work-based qualification many employers require for senior care roles.
T Level in Health (Education and Childcare pathway): a post-16 technical route with a substantial industry placement.
Foundation Degree or BSc in Health and Social Care: universities recognise this OCR Extended Certificate as a strong entry qualification for degree-level study.
CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Child Care and Education: if you want to focus specifically on working with children.
