Level 3 Health and Social Care Course in Paignton. Classes run at South Devon College, full-time during the day. This two-year health and social care qualification builds the academic and practical skills you need to work in health and social care settings. You'll study a broad range of topics covering care practice, human development, and the principles behind effective support. Entry requires a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English, plus a DBS check.
Who this course is for
This two year Health and Social Care course develops the advanced academic and practical skills required to excel in the Health and Social Care sector, gaining valuable transferable skills across a range of topics.The Level 3 Certificate forms the first year of the Level 3 Extended Diploma also offered at South Devon College with opportunities to progress into vocationally specific degree pathways through both University Centre South Devon and the wider higher education community or to employment.The aim of the course is to give you the opportunity to explore and access the wider health and care sector area. To support this transition to working in health and care you will be exposed to a range of opportunities including healthcare professional led training scenarios in our fully functioning skills suite alongside classroom based sessions. You will also complete up to 200 hours within a vocational work placement each year, where you will develop practical skills related to working within the care sector.There are a range of assessments on this course including internally assessed assignments (e.g. reports, essays, presentations, posters, digital media) and in addition one externally set controlled assessment in year 1 and an external exam in year 2.We work closely with a number of employers to ensure that staff are up to date in current practice and this can in turn support you in gaining part time employment that help your future progression options for you, where you can demonstrate your skills and ability as a health care professional.If you aim to access university level study, successful completion of the two-year programme enables you to gain up to 168 UCAS points and a range of job role pathways will welcome this programme. For example Assistant Practitioner, Nursing, Midwifery, Paramedicine, Occupational Therapy, Social Work, Operating Department Practitioner and Podiatry to name a few across our sector area.
Entry requirements
You will need to have achieved a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4(C) or above, including Maths and English, You will need to complete a DBS Check, You should have a genuine interest in this subject
What you will learn
You'll develop knowledge of health, wellbeing, and person-centred care.
You'll study safeguarding principles and how they apply in care settings.
You'll explore human development across the life stages.
You'll learn how legislation and policy shape health and social care practice.
You'll build skills in communication with individuals, families, and professionals.
You'll examine mental health, disability, and long-term conditions.
You'll develop understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion in care.
How you will learn
Learning takes place in the classroom at South Devon College, combining taught sessions with practical and written work. Assessment is through assignments, projects, and portfolio evidence built up over the two years. There are no formal written exams; instead, your work is assessed continuously throughout the course. A DBS check is required before you start.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Devon College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to complete a DBS check as part of your enrolment.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support people in their homes or residential settings.
Healthcare support worker: assist clinical staff in NHS or private settings.
Mental health support worker: work alongside people with mental health needs.
Learning disability support worker: provide day-to-day care and advocacy.
Senior care assistant: take on a lead role within a care team.
Early years practitioner: work in childcare or family support settings.
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BSc in Health and Social Care: the Level 3 Extended Diploma is recognised for entry to degree programmes at University Centre South Devon and other universities.
Level 4 or 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care: moves you toward management roles in care settings.
Nursing or Social Work degree: for those wanting to qualify as a registered professional.
