Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Wigan. Classes run at Wigan and Leigh College. You'll need a minimum of five GCSEs graded 9 - 4, including maths or science and English, to enrol. The course runs full-time over 35 weeks, covering the knowledge and skills needed to work across health and social care settings. It's a strong foundation for roles in care, nursing, and support work, and opens routes into university. The NHS and social care sector both have significant skills shortages, so demand for qualified candidates is real.
Who this course is for
The NHS is one of the largest employers in the UK. With a diverse range of roles and skills shortages in the sector, there has never been a better time to start a career in health and social care. If you enjoy caring for people and you are looking for a varied job which makes a positive difference to peoples lives, a career in health and social care may be for you. We have solid reputation for progressing students into employment and on to university. This course will help you to develop the skills and knowledge you will need when applying for and working in the Care sector, including your skills in communication, problem solving, team working and time management should develop as a result of studying this course.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSE subjects graded 9-4 or equivalent including maths or science and English.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and how the body works across the lifespan.
You'll explore how health and social care services are organised and delivered in the UK.
You'll study the principles of safeguarding and how to protect vulnerable people.
You'll learn about equality, diversity, and rights in health and social care practice.
You'll examine mental health, conditions affecting wellbeing, and approaches to support.
You'll build skills in communication and professional practice within care settings.
You'll understand research methods and how evidence informs care decisions.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Wigan and Leigh College. The BTEC Extended Diploma is assessed through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed examinations set by Pearson Edexcel. Assignments are completed throughout the course and marked by your tutors. External assessments are sat under exam conditions at set points in the year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Wigan and Leigh College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: supporting people with daily living in residential or home care settings.
Healthcare support worker: assisting clinical staff in NHS or private healthcare.
Mental health support worker: working with people experiencing mental health conditions.
Learning disability support worker: providing day-to-day support in community or residential settings.
Senior care assistant: taking on a lead role within a care team.
Social care coordinator: organising care packages and liaising with families and services.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BSc in Nursing, Social Work, or Health and Social Care: many universities accept the BTEC National Extended Diploma as a direct entry qualification.
Degree Apprenticeship in Nursing or Social Work: combine paid work with a full degree.
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care: suited to those moving into supervisory or management roles in care settings.
