Free Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Yeovil. Classes run at Yeovil College, Monday to Friday, daytime. This is a two-year full-time programme covering 348 hours of classroom study, practical workshops, and mandatory work placements in care settings. You'll learn from industry professionals and apply theory in real placements throughout the course. The qualification carries UCAS points equivalent to A levels, opening routes into nursing, midwifery, social work, and paramedic science degrees.
Who this course is for
The Level 3 Health and Social Care course is a full-time qualification which, when completed to Extended Diploma level by the end of the second year, will give you all you need to further your career in Health and Social Care. Offering UCAS points equivalent to A level, it is a gateway to university degree courses such as midwifery and nursing, occupational therapy, paramedic science, social work, psychology and many more. Time in industry on work placement throughout the entire programme as well as lectures and practical workshops by industry professionals in college will provide you with relevant and useful skills, knowledge and confidence to prepare you for your next steps.
Entry requirements
To enrol on this course, you need to have Maths and English at GCSE Grade 4 in addition to 3 other GCSEs at Grade 4 or higher. Alternative qualifications such as the Level 2 Certificate at a Merit will also be considered along with English and Maths at Grade 5.
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of health, wellbeing, and person-centred care approaches.
You'll study safeguarding, equality, and the legal frameworks that govern care work.
You'll explore human development across the lifespan and how it shapes care needs.
You'll learn how to communicate effectively with individuals, families, and professionals.
You'll understand mental health, conditions affecting service users, and appropriate support strategies.
You'll apply theory to practice through mandatory industry placements in care environments.
You'll build the professional behaviours and attitudes expected in health and social care settings.
How you will learn
You'll study through classroom sessions, lectures, and practical workshops delivered by industry professionals at Yeovil College. Mandatory work placements run throughout the full two-year programme, linking theory to practice. Assessment is through coursework, assignments, and evidence gathered during placements. You'll need to complete all placements and assessments to be awarded the Extended Diploma.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Yeovil College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: entry-level care roles in residential or home settings.
Healthcare support worker: supporting clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Social care worker: working with adults or children in community care.
Mental health support worker: assisting people with mental health needs.
Nursery or early years worker: supporting children's development in care settings.
Nursing apprentice: a structured route into registered nursing while working.
What you could study next
Nursing degree (BSc): the most direct university route from this qualification, supported by the UCAS points it carries.
Midwifery degree (BSc): open to applicants with this Extended Diploma and relevant placement experience.
Paramedic Science degree (BSc): a common progression for those interested in emergency care.
Nursing Associate Course: a work-based route into nursing for those entering employment first.
Social Work degree (BA/BSc): for those focusing on community and statutory care roles.
