Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Wandsworth – Saint Francis Xavier Sixth Form College

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

About this course

Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Wandsworth. Classes run at Saint Francis Xavier Sixth Form College. This two-year, full-time daytime course covers the knowledge and skills needed for careers in health and social care or for entry into higher education. A work placement is a mandatory part of the course, giving you direct experience in a care setting. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English Language, or a relevant BTEC Level 2 Diploma at the required grade.

Who this course is for

This course is a broad-based qualification designed to prepare students for a range of careers in Health & Social Care or for entry into Higher Education. A work placement is a mandatory requirement of the course.

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above ideally including English Language at grade 4 or a BTEC Level 2 Diploma at Merit with English Language at grade 4.

In addition/ within those 5 GCSEs, for this subject you will need to achieve Grade 4 in Maths and a Grade 4 in English language is preferred OR BTEC Level 2 Diploma in a relevant Level 2 qualification with Distinction.

NB: A BTEC AWARD is not sufficient on its own without meeting other requirements.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the principles of health, wellbeing, and care in the UK.
  • You'll study human development across the life stages and how it affects care needs.
  • You'll learn how to communicate effectively with individuals in care settings.
  • You'll examine safeguarding, equality, and the rights of people using care services.
  • You'll develop understanding of anatomy, physiology, and common health conditions.
  • You'll apply knowledge of mental health, dementia, and long-term conditions to care practice.
  • You'll complete a mandatory work placement, putting your learning into practice in a real care environment.

How you will learn

The BTEC National Extended 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 each unit and marked by your tutors. Some units are assessed through written exams under timed conditions. The mandatory work placement is assessed as part of the qualification. Classes are delivered in person at the college during daytime hours.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Saint Francis Xavier Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: support adults or older people with daily living
  • 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
  • Residential care worker: provide support in care homes or supported living
  • Community care worker: deliver care in people's own homes
  • Mental health support worker: assist people managing mental health conditions

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Nursing: the main degree route into registered nursing with the NMC.
  • BSc (Hons) Social Work: required to practise as a qualified social worker in the UK.
  • Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care: a shorter higher education route, often employer-linked.
  • Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care: for those moving into supervisory or management roles in care settings.
  • Paramedic Science degree: for those interested in urgent and emergency care.

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