Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Widnes. Classes run at Riverside College Kingsway Campus. This full-time, two-year health and social care qualification combines health studies with practical beauty therapy experience, including skincare and electrical treatments. You'll need five GCSEs at grades 9 - 4, including English Language, Maths, and Science, plus a clear DBS check. The course covers the knowledge and professional skills needed to work in health and care settings.
Who this course is for
Aimed at School Leavers. The Extended Diploma in Health Studies provides a broad insight into the healthcare profession and considers the skills and qualities required to work in a range of healthcare settings. These include hospitals, doctors surgeries and pharmacies. One of the great strengths of the Diploma is the integration of theory and practice as students have the opportunity to apply what they have learnt at College to their healthcare work placements. This exciting and innovative course in health provides you with a broad in sight and invaluable experience in a variety of different healthcare settings. These varied experiences enable you to develop professional skills, knowledge, skills and qualities to a high standard. An integral part of the course is attending a rotation of placements at Warrington and Halton Hospital Trust that offer the opportunity to develop skills further and relate theory to practice.
Entry requirements
5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 including English Language, Maths and 9-5 in Science. At Cronton, we look at the overall GCSE profile. A student on a Level 3 course should have achieved 9-4 grades in their GCSEs. English Language 4. Maths 4. Science 9-4/5 (some universities ask for 5 in Science for midwifery and nursing). Also Clear DBS check (student pays ?44)
What you will learn
You'll study core health and social care principles, including human development and wellbeing.
You'll explore anatomy and physiology relevant to health practice.
You'll learn about safeguarding, ethics, and professional values in care settings.
You'll develop practical skincare and facial treatment skills at Level 2 in year one.
You'll build on this with Level 3 electrical treatment techniques in year two.
You'll gain industry experience that bridges health studies and beauty therapy practice.
You'll understand how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Riverside College Kingsway Campus, combining taught health studies with hands-on practical work in beauty therapy. Assessment on the Pearson Edexcel BTEC is primarily through coursework and assignments rather than written exams, with some units assessed through practical observation and portfolio evidence.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Riverside College Kingsway Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start. Note that a DBS check is required; the cost of approximately £44 is paid by the student.
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.
Social care worker: work with vulnerable adults or children in community services.
Senior care assistant: take on a lead role within a care team.
Beauty therapist: work in salons or wellness clinics using your practical therapy skills.
Health and wellbeing advisor: support clients in community health programmes.
What you could study next
Level 4 or 5 Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Health and Social Care (Pearson Edexcel) - a step toward degree-level study or senior roles in care management.
Nursing, Midwifery, or Allied Health degree - this qualification meets many university entry requirements; note some nursing courses ask for a grade 5 in Science.
Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (NVQ-style) - if you move into a care role and want a work-based qualification alongside employment.
