Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Stevenage – Marriotts School

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Stevenage. Classes run at Marriotts School. This two-year, full-time daytime health and social care qualification covers the foundations of health science, social care, and childcare. It sits alongside other Level 3 subjects as part of a broader programme of study. The course is equivalent in size to one A Level, and completing it as part of a wider programme opens routes into higher education and further training. Entry requires a grade 5 in GCSE Health and Social Care, or a Merit or above in a Level 2 BTEC in Health and Social Care.

Who this course is for

If you're thinking about a career in health science, social care or childcare this course will give you an introduction to the sector whilst allowing you to study other subjects alongside it. Equivalent in size to one A Level, if you take it as part of a programme of study that includes other work related or academic Level 3 qualifications it can help you to move on to to a wide range of higher education and training opportunities.

Entry requirements

A 5 in GCSE Health and Social Care or Merit or above at Level 2 BTEC in Health and Social care.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the principles and values that underpin health and social care practice.
  • You'll study human growth, development, and the factors that affect health and wellbeing.
  • You'll examine how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
  • You'll learn about safeguarding, equality, and person-centred approaches to care.
  • You'll develop understanding of communication skills used in care settings.
  • You'll investigate the impact of social and environmental factors on health outcomes.

How you will learn

The OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate is assessed through a combination of coursework and externally assessed units. You'll complete assignments and projects throughout the course, alongside at least one externally set and marked examination. Classes are delivered in the classroom at Marriotts School as part of a full-time daytime timetable.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Marriotts School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: support people in residential or home care settings.
  • Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
  • Early years practitioner: work with young children in nursery or childcare settings.
  • Social care worker: support vulnerable adults or young people in the community.
  • Mental health support worker: assist people managing mental health conditions.
  • Domiciliary care worker: provide personal care and support in people's homes.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 A Levels: combine with your health and social care classes to strengthen a university application.
  • Level 4 or 5 Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Health and Social Care: a step toward degree-level study without a full three-year degree.
  • BSc Nursing, Social Work, or Allied Health degree: many universities accept this qualification as part of an entry offer.
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Health and Social Care: a work-based route if you move into employment after completing this course.