Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Plymouth. Classes run at Tor Bridge High. You'll need five or more GCSEs at grade 4 or above to enrol. This full-time, daytime health and social care qualification covers the knowledge and skills needed to work in care settings, from understanding human development to supporting people's health and wellbeing. The course takes 18 months to complete. It's a strong foundation for roles in adult social care or for moving into higher education.
Who this course is for
Contact provider for more information
Entry requirements
5 or more GCSE at grade 4 or above
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of human growth, development, and the factors that affect health and wellbeing.
You'll learn how to support individuals in health and social care settings, including person-centred approaches.
You'll study anatomy, physiology, and how body systems relate to health conditions.
You'll explore safeguarding principles and how to protect vulnerable adults and children.
You'll understand legislation, policies, and ethical frameworks that shape care practice.
You'll examine mental health, learning disabilities, and dementia care.
You'll build skills in communication and professional practice within care environments.
How you will learn
The BTEC Extended Diploma is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations set by Pearson Edexcel. Assignments are completed throughout the course and marked by your tutors. Some units are assessed through written exams. There is no single end-of-course exam; your grade builds across both types of assessment over the 18 months.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Tor Bridge High will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support adults in residential or home care settings.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Mental health support worker: work with people experiencing mental health conditions.
Learning disability support worker: provide day-to-day support for adults with learning disabilities.
Senior care assistant: take on a supervisory role after gaining experience.
Early years practitioner: work with children in nursery or family support settings.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care: a two-year higher education route, often available at local colleges or universities, that builds directly on this qualification.
BSc (Hons) in Health and Social Care: a full degree for those wanting to move into management, social work, or specialist care roles.
Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, or Learning Disabilities): university entry for registered nursing programmes, for which this BTEC is a recognised qualification.
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care: a work-based management qualification for those already in employment.
