Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Maidenhead. Classes run at Berkshire College of Agriculture three days a week, full-time over 36 weeks. You'll study mandatory units covering core health and social care knowledge, plus optional units you can tailor toward your preferred area of practice. The course includes two two-week industry placement blocks, giving you hands-on experience alongside your classroom learning. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including maths and English, and a DBS check is required before you start.
Who this course is for
This qualification covers a range of key subject areas in health and social care. It offers mandatory units and a variety of optional units; enabling learners to pursue an interest in specific areas of social care and health studies, while still allowing enough diversity for the optional units to be tailored to suit a learner’s preferred progression path. The course will be delivered three days a week in college, including two, two-week industry placement weeks.
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at grade 3 or above including maths and English. A Disclosure Barring Service check is also required.
What you will learn
You'll explore the principles of health and social care practice.
You'll study how to support individuals' wellbeing and independence.
You'll learn about safeguarding and protecting vulnerable people.
You'll examine communication skills used in care settings.
You'll develop knowledge of health conditions relevant to care work.
You'll complete optional units tailored to your chosen area of care or health studies.
You'll gain hands-on experience through two industry placement weeks.
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom three days a week at Berkshire College of Agriculture. The course combines mandatory units with optional units, letting you focus on areas that match your interests or career direction. Two two-week industry placements are included, giving you direct experience in a real care or health setting. Assessment is through coursework and practical evidence gathered across the programme.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Berkshire College of Agriculture will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to complete a Disclosure Barring Service check before the course begins.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support adults with daily living in home or residential settings.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in hospitals or community care.
Support worker: help people with disabilities or mental health needs.
Home care worker: provide personal care and companionship in clients' homes.
Residential care worker: work in care homes supporting older or vulnerable adults.
Community health worker: deliver care and support in local community settings.
What you could study next
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care: the next step if you want to move into senior care roles or apply to nursing, social work, or allied health degree programmes.
Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (NVQ-style): a work-based qualification recognised for senior care assistant and team leader roles.
T Level in Health: a two-year full-time qualification combining classroom study with extended industry placement, designed as a route into higher education or skilled health roles.
