Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Manchester – The Manchester College Openshaw Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Manchester. Classes run at The Manchester College Openshaw Campus, full-time during the day. This Pearson Edexcel BTEC covers the knowledge and skills needed across health and social care settings, from human lifespan development to working with individuals in care. The course takes one year to complete. It prepares you for employment in the sector and supports progression to health and social care degrees at university.

Who this course is for

This qualification has been designed to provide in-depth knowledge and skills for the health and social care sector. It supports progression to a variety of health and social care related degrees.

The qualification will give you the skills and knowledge essential for progression to higher education or employment opportunities within the Health and Social Care Sector.

This programme is made up of a number of internally and externally assessed modules including:

  • Human Lifespan Development
  • Working in Health and Social Care
  • Enquiries into Current Research in Health and Social Care
  • Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs
  • Principles of Safe Practice in Health and Social Care
  • Promoting Public Health
  • Physiological Disorders and their Care
  • Nutritional Health
  • This course is also available as an evening course.

What you will learn

  • You'll study human lifespan development and how it shapes care needs.
  • You'll learn how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
  • You'll develop understanding of safeguarding, equality, and person-centred care.
  • You'll explore anatomy, physiology, and how the body works in health and illness.
  • You'll build knowledge of mental health, disability, and long-term conditions.
  • You'll learn how to communicate effectively with individuals, families, and care teams.
  • You'll understand professional values and ethics in health and social care practice.

How you will learn

The BTEC National Diploma uses a mix of internal and external assessment. Internally assessed units involve assignments, case studies, and project work completed throughout the year. Externally assessed units are examined or set-task assessments marked by Pearson Edexcel. Classes are delivered in the classroom at The Manchester College Openshaw Campus, with daytime attendance across the full academic year.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Manchester College Openshaw Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Care assistant: supporting adults or older people in care settings.
  • Healthcare support worker: assisting clinical staff in NHS or private healthcare.
  • Support worker: working with people with disabilities or mental health needs.
  • Senior care assistant: taking on a lead role within a care team.
  • Early years practitioner: working in childcare and family support settings.
  • Community care worker: delivering care and support in people's own homes.
  • Mental health support worker: helping people manage mental health conditions day to day.

What you could study next

  • Foundation Degree or BSc in Health and Social Care: the BTEC National Diploma is designed to support direct entry to university-level study in this field.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (NVQ-style): if you move into employment, this work-based qualification is recognised for career progression in adult social care.
  • Nursing or Allied Health Professional degree: for those aiming toward registered roles such as nursing, occupational therapy, or social work.

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