Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Torquay – Torquay Academy

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start3 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyOCR awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Torquay. Classes run at Torquay Academy. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English and maths, or a relevant Level 2 health and social care qualification to enrol. This two-year, full-time daytime course is designed to sit alongside A levels or other work-related qualifications as part of a study programme. It covers the health and social care sector in depth, introducing career paths in areas such as nursing, social work, and early years. The course is equivalent to two A levels and can support progression to higher education or an apprenticeship.

Who this course is for

If you're considering a career in health and social care and would like to take a work related route to either higher education courses or an apprenticeship then this course may suit you. It's designed to be taken as part of a study programme alongside other work related qualifications or A levels and will give you an introduction to the sector and the career paths available within it. Equivalent to 2 A levels, it's useful for anyone considering careers such as social work, nursing and early years education.

Entry requirements

5 GCSE's at Level 5 or above including English and maths or a relevant level 2 health and social care qualification.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the principles and values that underpin health and social care practice.
  • You'll study human growth and development across the life stages.
  • You'll examine how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
  • You'll learn how to support individuals' physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
  • You'll investigate safeguarding, legislation, and the rights of people using care services.
  • You'll develop understanding of communication skills used in health and social care settings.
  • You'll explore career routes including nursing, social work, and early years education.

How you will learn

Learning takes place in the classroom at Torquay Academy through a combination of taught sessions, coursework assignments, and practical activities. Assessment is through a mix of internally assessed units and externally assessed components set by OCR. You'll build a portfolio of work alongside sitting assessed tasks throughout the two years.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Torquay Academy 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.
  • Early years practitioner: work with children in nursery or pre-school settings.
  • Social care worker: support vulnerable adults or young people in the community.
  • Mental health support worker: assist people with mental health needs day to day.
  • Residential support worker: provide care in a residential or supported living home.

What you could study next

  • Degree in Nursing (Adult, Mental Health, or Children's): the direct route to becoming a registered nurse via a university nursing programme.
  • Degree in Social Work: required to qualify as a social worker in the UK.
  • Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care: a shorter higher education route, often available part-time.
  • Higher or Degree Apprenticeship in Nursing or Social Work: earn while you train at a higher level.

Related courses at Torquay Academy

More courses near you