Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Penzance. Classes run at Penwith College. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language or Literature and/or maths at grade 5. This two-year, full-time daytime course gives you a broad introduction to careers across health and social care. It covers the knowledge and skills employers and universities look for in the sector. The Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care carries the same weight as three A Levels, opening doors to both employment and higher education.
Who this course is for
Foundation Diplomas are normally studied as first year of a two year course leading to an Extended Diploma. This course will provide you with a broad scientific base and an opportunity to study health care issues. It is also designed to prepare you to work in health related careers in a professional capacity and provides the knowledge, skills and understanding required for working in a health environment or a progression route for Higher Education.
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at Grade 4 to include either English Language or Literature and/or Maths. A Level 2 Diploma at Merit in an appropriate subject can also be considered (plus English and/or Maths).
What you will learn
You'll explore how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
You'll study human growth and development across the life stages.
You'll learn how to support individuals' physical and mental wellbeing.
You'll examine safeguarding principles and how to protect vulnerable people.
You'll develop understanding of equality, diversity, and rights in care settings.
You'll learn about communication skills used in professional care environments.
You'll study anatomy, physiology, and common health conditions relevant to care work.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom based at Penwith College, with full-time daytime attendance over two years. BTEC qualifications are assessed mainly through assignments and coursework rather than exams. You'll complete units assessed by your tutors, building a portfolio of evidence as you progress. Some units may include external assessment set by Pearson Edexcel.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Penwith College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: supporting adults in residential or home care settings.
Healthcare support worker: assisting clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Mental health support worker: working alongside people with mental health needs.
Learning disability support worker: providing day-to-day care and independence support.
Early years practitioner: working with children in nursery or childcare settings.
Social care administrator: coordinating care plans and records in a care organisation.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BSc in Health and Social Care: the Extended Diploma's three-A-Level equivalence makes it a recognised entry route into university-level study.
Nursing Associate (Level 5 Apprenticeship): a stepping stone toward registered nursing.
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training: if you want to move into teaching or training roles within health and social care.
Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (NVQ): if you move into a care role and want a work-based qualification alongside employment.
