Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Oswestry. Classes run at North Shropshire College, full-time during the day. You'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 (including English and/or maths), or a relevant Level 2 qualification at merit grade with good progress in English and maths. This level 3 health and social care qualification covers both theory and practical skills, and includes a minimum of 100 hours of work experience across a range of placements. The course takes one year and carries up to 168 UCAS points, so it can also support a university application.
Who this course is for
The Level 3 course provides both theoretical and practical study and links with the national occupational standards in health and social care. It provides the knowledge, skills and understanding required for a career in this sector. You will be required to complete a minimum of 100 hours of work experience in a variety of placements. This qualification is the equivalent of up to 168 UCAS Points.
Entry requirements
A minimum of five GSCEs at grade 4, including English and/or maths or successful completion of a relevant Level 2 qualification at merit grade and good progress with English and maths, ideally GCSE grade 4 or equivalent.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of health, wellbeing, and the factors that affect them.
You'll study how care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
You'll learn how to support individuals with different physical, emotional, and social needs.
You'll explore safeguarding, equality, and person-centred approaches to care.
You'll build practical skills through hands-on work experience placements.
You'll understand professional values and ethics in health and social care settings.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions combining theory and practical study. Assessment is through assignments, projects, and coursework rather than exams. You'll also complete a minimum of 100 hours of work experience across a variety of placements, which forms a core part of the qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. North Shropshire 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 care and independence support.
Early years practitioner: work in nurseries or children's care settings.
Community care worker: deliver care in people's own homes.
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training: if you want to move into teaching or training in the sector.
Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Health and Social Care: a higher-level vocational route, often available at college.
BSc (Hons) Nursing, Social Work, or Allied Health: the UCAS points from this qualification can support a university application onto a degree programme.
Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (NVQ-style): if you move into work and want a work-based qualification alongside your role.
