Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Southwark. Classes run at Sacred Heart Catholic School, full-time over two years. This is a free health and social care course for adults and school leavers who want to build the knowledge and skills needed for work in care and health settings. You'll study topics covering human development, health conditions, safeguarding, and the values that underpin care practice. The course also opens a route to university, including nursing and midwifery degrees. Entry requires Grade 5 in GCSE English Language and Grade 4 in Science, or a Merit in a Level 2 BTEC Health and Social Care qualification.
Who this course is for
INTRODUCTION The BTEC Diploma/Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care prepares you to work in care and/or health related careers. This two-year course provides the knowledge, skills and understanding required for working in a caring environment and gives the opportunity for students to gain a nationally recognised level three vocationally specific qualification. In addition, the course provides the opportunity for progression to university to study professional courses such as nursing, midwifery, social work, residential care management, and housing and probation service. If you enjoy working in a caring capacity with people and are interested in a career in health, social care or the public sector this course could be for you. The Diploma qualification is equivalent to two A levels and should be studied alongside one other A level course. The Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels and is usually the one course studied. Work experience is compulsory in the study of health and social care. Guest speakers from setting will be invited in to further enhance your understanding of current practice.
Entry requirements
Grade 5 in English Language & Grade 4 in Science or Merit overall achieved in Level 2 BTEC Award/TECH Health & Social Care.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of human growth, development, and health across the life stages.
You'll study how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
You'll explore the values and principles that underpin care practice, including safeguarding and person-centred approaches.
You'll build understanding of anatomy, physiology, and common health conditions.
You'll examine the factors that affect health and wellbeing, including social, economic, and environmental influences.
You'll develop communication skills relevant to working with individuals in care settings.
You'll learn how to support people with specific needs, including older adults and those with disabilities.
How you will learn
The BTEC National Diploma is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations set by Pearson Edexcel. Assignments are completed over the course of the two years and are based on real-world scenarios and case studies. Some units are assessed through written exams under timed conditions. You'll attend classroom-based lessons at Sacred Heart Catholic School throughout the week.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Sacred Heart Catholic School 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.
Support worker: work with people with learning disabilities or mental health needs.
Early years practitioner: care for and support young children in nursery settings.
Community care worker: deliver personal care and support in people's homes.
Residential childcare worker: support young people in care homes or supported housing.
What you could study next
BSc Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, or Children's): the level 3 health and social care qualification is a recognised entry route for nursing degrees at many universities.
BSc Midwifery: a natural next step if you want to specialise in maternity care.
Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care: a shorter higher education route if you want to progress without committing to a full degree immediately.
Level 4 or 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care: for those moving into supervisory or management roles in care.
