Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Newton Abbot. Classes run at South Devon University Technical College. You'll need 4 or 5 GCSEs including English and maths at grade 5 or above, or a relevant Level 2 qualification at merit grade. This full-time, daytime health and social care qualification covers a wide range of roles across the sector, helping you understand the knowledge and skills employers look for. The course takes two years and carries the same UCAS points as two A Levels, so it also opens doors to university.
Who this course is for
If you are interested in a career in health and social care, this work related 2-year course, equivalent to 2 A Levels will give you the knowledge and skills you need to take your first steps. It allows you to explore different health and social care roles to help you plan your future career options. You don't need any previous knowledge or experience of the health and social care sector to take this course. The course can be taken alongside other BTEC Nationals or A Levels to support move on toion to specific job roles or higher education courses in health and social care, for example occupational therapy or nursing.
Entry requirements
4 or 5 GCSE's including English and maths at grade 5 (C) or above or a relevant level 2 qualification at merit grade.
What you will learn
You'll explore the values and principles that underpin health and social care practice.
You'll study human biology and how physical and mental health conditions affect people.
You'll examine safeguarding, legislation, and the rights of individuals receiving care.
You'll learn how to communicate effectively with people who use care services.
You'll investigate different health and social care settings and the roles within them.
You'll develop your understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion in care environments.
You'll explore how to support people's health and wellbeing across different life stages.
How you will learn
The BTEC National Extended Diploma is assessed mainly through assignments and project-based work rather than exams. You'll complete coursework units throughout the two years, with some externally assessed components set and marked by Pearson Edexcel. Classes are classroom-based and run full-time during the day at South Devon University Technical College. Work placement may form part of the course, giving you direct experience in a care setting.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Devon University Technical College 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.
Mental health support worker: work alongside people with mental health needs.
Learning disability support worker: provide day-to-day support in community settings.
Early years practitioner: work with young children in nursery or care settings.
Social care worker: support adults or young people in local authority services.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BSc in Health and Social Care: the BTEC National Extended Diploma carries UCAS points equivalent to two A Levels, making it a direct route into university-level study.
Nursing, Midwifery, or Social Work degree: many universities accept this qualification for entry onto regulated professional programmes.
Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (NVQ route): if you move into work rather than university, this qualification supports progression in a care role.
