Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Poole. Classes run at Lytchett Minster School. You'll need five GCSEs at grade C or above to apply. This two-year, full-time daytime health and social care course covers the knowledge and skills needed to work in care settings, from understanding human development to supporting people's health and wellbeing. The Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Diploma is a well-established level 3 health and social care qualification that carries real weight with both employers and universities.
Who this course is for
BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care
Entry requirements
5 GCSE grades at C or above
What you will learn
You'll explore human growth and development across the lifespan.
You'll study how physical, social, and emotional factors affect health and wellbeing.
You'll learn about the values and principles that underpin care practice, including dignity and person-centred approaches.
You'll examine how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
You'll develop understanding of safeguarding, equality, and diversity in care settings.
You'll build communication skills relevant to working with individuals and families in care roles.
How you will learn
BTEC qualifications are assessed mainly through coursework and assignments rather than exams. You'll complete units assessed by your teachers, with some units externally assessed by Pearson Edexcel. Classroom-based learning includes taught sessions, case studies, and research tasks. Your work is built up over the two years and submitted as a portfolio of evidence.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Lytchett Minster School will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support adults or older people in residential or home care.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Support worker: work with people with learning disabilities or mental health needs.
Early years practitioner: work in nursery or childcare settings with young children.
Community care worker: provide care and support in people's own homes.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BSc in Health and Social Care: the BTEC National Diploma is widely accepted for university entry onto degree-level health and social care programmes.
Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (NVQ-style): if you move into a care role, this work-based qualification supports career progression and meets employer requirements.
Nursing or Midwifery degree: for those aiming toward a registered clinical profession, this qualification provides a strong academic foundation.
