Free Level 3 BTEC National in Health and Social Care Course in Plymouth. Classes run at Lipson Co-operative Academy. This two-year, full-time daytime course covers the knowledge and skills needed to work or study further in health and social care. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Science, Maths, and English. The level 3 BTEC National in health and social care qualification supports progression to university courses in nursing, social work, and related fields.
Who this course is for
This subject is ideal if you are interested about the health & social care sector - it can link to learning in A Levels such as Psychology, Biology or English. It is intended for students that wish to progress into higher education as a pathway to employment in the Health Sector or Teaching.
Entry requirements
Grade 4 or above in GCSE Science
Grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths & English
5 GCSEs at grade 4 and above (or BTEC equivalent)
What you will learn
You'll explore the principles of health, wellbeing, and care in the UK.
You'll study human biology and how the body systems relate to health conditions.
You'll examine safeguarding, person-centred care, and professional values in practice.
You'll analyse the social and psychological factors that affect health and wellbeing.
You'll develop research and communication skills relevant to health and social care settings.
You'll investigate how health and social care services are organised and delivered.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based lessons, combining written assignments and externally assessed examinations. The Pearson Edexcel BTEC National uses a mix of coursework units and set tasks marked by Pearson. Some units are internally assessed by your teachers; others involve timed assessments. You'll build knowledge progressively across the two years, with external assessments sitting in 2026 onward.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Lipson Co-operative Academy 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.
Mental health support worker: work alongside mental health teams.
Social care worker: support adults or children in community services.
Early years practitioner: work in nursery or childcare settings.
Community health worker: deliver health promotion in local settings.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BSc in Nursing: the level 3 BTEC National in health and social care is a recognised entry route to nursing degrees at many universities.
BSc Social Work: progress to a social work degree and qualify as a registered social worker.
BSc Psychology: builds on the psychological content covered in this qualification.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Health and Social Care: a shorter higher education option if you want to step into HE before committing to a full degree.
