Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Maidstone. Classes run at Maidstone Grammar School for Girls. This is a full-time, two-year health and social care qualification studied over 22 months in the sixth form. You'll cover topics across the health and social care sector, building the knowledge employers and universities look for. The course is graded at Pass, Distinction, or Distinction*, earning UCAS points, so it works as preparation for a health and social care degree, apprenticeship, or Higher Technical Qualification.
Who this course is for
This qualification is equivalent to an A Level. It can be gained at Pass, Distinction or Distinction*, each of which earns set amounts of UCAS Points. As it is a more vocational style of course it would suit anyone considering a career in any part of the health or social care sector. It would also combine well with Psychology, Sociology and Biology. It would be excellent preparation for any Health and Social Care related vocational degree, apprenticeship or Higher Level Technical Qualification. The course will be run by the Social Sciences Department.
Entry requirements
General Sixth Form Entry Requirements: Admission to the Sixth Form will be as a result of applicants achieving a minimum Grade 5 in English Language and Mathematics. In total students need to have achieved at least six GCSEs of which at least four subjects are at Grade 6 (or Grade B). In addition students must meet subject entry requirements. Students meeting only the minimum entry requirements for the Sixth Form are likely to find the choice of subjects which they can access is restricted. In addition, Grade 5 in GCSE English Language or English Literature.
What you will learn
You'll explore how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
You'll study human development across the life stages and how it affects care needs.
You'll examine the values and principles that underpin professional care practice.
You'll analyse factors that affect health and wellbeing, including social, economic, and environmental influences.
You'll develop understanding of safeguarding, legislation, and duty of care in care settings.
You'll investigate how communication skills are applied in health and social care contexts.
You'll consider how conditions such as dementia, mental ill health, or disability affect individuals and the support they need.
How you will learn
The OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations. You'll complete coursework units assessed by your centre and sit exams set and marked by OCR. Classes are delivered in person at Maidstone Grammar School for Girls during the daytime as part of a full-time sixth form timetable.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Maidstone Grammar School for Girls will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support adults or older people in care settings.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Mental health support worker: work alongside people with mental health needs.
Learning disability support worker: provide day-to-day support in community or residential settings.
Early years practitioner: work with children in nursery or childcare settings.
Social care administrator: coordinate services and records in a care organisation.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BSc in Health and Social Care: the natural next step if you want to work at a professional or management level in the sector.
Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, or Learning Disabilities): a degree-level route into registered nursing, for which this qualification earns UCAS points.
Higher Technical Qualification in Health: a work-based Level 4 or 5 route if you prefer to earn while you learn.
Level 3 Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care: combines employment with structured training in a care setting.
