Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Saint Helens. Classes run at Cowley International College. This two-year, full-time daytime course leads to the Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care. It includes First Aid training, a uniform, and a DBS check. You'll complete work placements two days a week across a range of care settings, primarily within St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English Language.
Who this course is for
Nursing Cadetship is a brilliant opportunity to start a nursing career. The course includes First Aid, a uniform, DBS check. It provides a valuable experience in a variety of different health care settings, primarily in the NHS and local care provider environments. Work placements within St Helens & Knowsley NHS Trust consist of two full days per week in different care settings.
Entry requirements
5 GCSEs or equivalent, grade 9 - 4, including Maths and English Language
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of human biology, anatomy, and physiology relevant to health and social care.
You'll study how health conditions affect individuals across different life stages.
You'll learn how to support people's physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
You'll explore safeguarding principles and how to protect vulnerable people.
You'll gain practical experience across NHS and community care settings through regular work placements.
You'll learn how to apply First Aid in health and care environments.
You'll understand professional values, ethics, and legislation in health and social care.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Cowley International College, combined with two days of work placement each week in real care settings. Assessment for the BTEC National Extended Diploma is through a mix of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations set by Pearson Edexcel. Assignments are based on work you produce throughout the course. External assessments test your knowledge of core units.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Cowley International College will confirm anything else you need before you start. A uniform and DBS check are included as part of the course.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support people in NHS, residential, or community settings.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in hospital environments.
Mental health support worker: work alongside people with mental health needs.
Social care worker: support adults or children in community care roles.
Nursing associate: a stepping stone toward registered nursing (further training required).
Domiciliary care worker: provide personal care and support in people's homes.
What you could study next
Nursing degree (BSc Nursing): the direct route to becoming a registered nurse. This qualification is designed to support university entry.
Foundation degree in Health and Social Care: a shorter higher education route if you want to progress without a full degree.
Level 4 or 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care: for those moving into supervisory or management roles in care settings.
