Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Ryde. Classes run at Lift Ryde. You'll need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above to apply. This two-year, full-time daytime course covers six mandatory units per A-Level equivalent, combining coursework and examinations. At least half the course is assessed through coursework. The level 3 health and social care qualification is available in different sizes; the Extended Certificate is equivalent to a single A-Level. Talk to the teaching team about which option suits your plans.
Who this course is for
This Level 3 course is available in different size combinations. The Extended Certificate is equivalent to a single A-Level, the Diploma is equivalent to two A-Levels and the Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A-Levels. Please discuss with the teaching team which option is most appropriate for you and your career plans.
There are six mandatory units for each equivalent A-Level. The course consists of a combination of coursework and examination units, with at least 50% of the course being externally examined.
Units include:
Developing effective communication in Health and Social Care
Nutrition
Equality and Diversity
Health and Safety
In Year 13 students have the opportunity to choose some units themselves. Work experience in an appropriate setting is encouraged during the course to help students link theory to practice.
The CTEC course is graded Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction*. They are a recognised qualification which carry UCAS points for progression to Higher Education.
Entry requirements
5 grade 4’s minimum.
What you will learn
You'll explore the principles of health and social care practice in the UK.
You'll study human development across the life stages and how it affects care needs.
You'll learn how legislation and policy shape health and social care services.
You'll examine how to support individuals' physical and mental wellbeing.
You'll develop skills in communication and person-centred approaches to care.
You'll understand safeguarding responsibilities and how to apply them in practice.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Lift Ryde. Assessment combines coursework and written examinations, with at least 50% of the course assessed through coursework. Units are assessed individually, so you build your portfolio and exam preparation throughout the two years rather than all at the end.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Lift Ryde will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support adults with daily living in care homes or at home.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Mental health support worker: work alongside people managing mental health conditions.
Learning disability support worker: provide day-to-day support in residential or community settings.
Early years practitioner: work with children in nursery or family support roles.
Social care administrator: coordinate care services and manage client records.
What you could study next
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care (OCR Cambridge Technical): equivalent to three A-Levels and a stronger foundation for university applications in nursing, social work, or allied health.
Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professions): a one-year course recognised by UK universities, designed for those moving into degree-level study.
Nursing Associate or Nursing degree apprenticeship: employer-funded routes into registered nursing for those already working in care.
