Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Truro. Classes run at Truro College. You'll need four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English and/or Maths, to join. This two-year, full-time daytime course covers a broad range of topics across health and social care, from human development and anatomy to safeguarding and working with service users. It's designed to take you into higher education or directly into the workforce. You'll also complete work placements, which require a DBS check.
Who this course is for
This three A Level equivalent pathway enables students to explore a broad range of topics within the world of Health and Social Care, developing knowledge and understanding designed to enable a route into Higher Education or progression into the workforce.
The Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is intended as an applied general qualification. It is for post-16 learners who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to Higher Education and ultimately to employment in the health and social care sector. The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with higher education to ensure it supports progression to higher study. Employers and professional bodies have also been involved in order to confirm that the content is also appropriate for those interested in working in the health and social care sector.
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above. This must include English (Language or Literature) and/or Maths, preferably Science and one other GCSE at a minimum of Grade 4. You will also be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service clearance check for work placement.
What you will learn
You'll explore human development across the life stages and how it shapes health and wellbeing.
You'll study anatomy and physiology relevant to health and social care settings.
You'll learn how safeguarding principles protect vulnerable people.
You'll develop understanding of person-centred approaches to care.
You'll examine the roles of health and social care organisations and how they work together.
You'll gain practical experience through work placements in real care settings.
You'll build research and analytical skills needed for higher education study.
How you will learn
The Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations. Classroom sessions at Truro College cover both theory and applied learning. Work placements form a core part of the programme. You'll complete written assignments, case studies, and sit set tasks or exams set by Pearson Edexcel. This qualification is the equivalent of three A Levels.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Truro College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
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.
Support worker: work with adults or children with additional needs.
Early years practitioner: work in nurseries or children's centres.
Mental health support worker: support people with mental health conditions.
Social care administrator: coordination and admin roles in care organisations.
What you could study next
BSc (Hons) Nursing: this qualification meets typical entry requirements for nursing degree programmes.
BSc (Hons) Social Work: a degree route into qualified social work practice.
Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care: a two-year higher education route if you want to step into degree-level study gradually.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Health and Social Care: a Level 4 option if you want to build specialist knowledge before committing to a full degree.
