The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care! Universitieswidely recognise it and can help you enter degree courses related tohealth, social care, nursing, social work, midwifery, occupationaltherapy, and other allied health professions.Or, for employment, some of the possible options are listed below:Healthcare AssistantSocial Worker AssistantNursing AssociateEarly Years PractitionerSupport Worker (e.g., for adults with disabilities or mental healthissues)Care Worker in residential or domiciliary careCommunity Care OfficerMental Health Support WorkerYouth WorkerOccupational Therapy AssistantRehabilitation AssistantPharmacy AssistantHealth Promotion AssistantActivities Coordinator in care settings
Health and Social Care
Health and Social Care Level 3 Extended Diploma
- Course Type: Diploma/Certificate
What can this course lead to?
Who is it for?
The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is a vocationalqualification designed to prepare students for careers in health, socialcare, and related sectors. Equivalent to three A-levels, it provides acomprehensive understanding of key topics, including humandevelopment, safeguarding, mental health, communication, and healthpromotion. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practicalskills through assignments, case studies, and work-related projects,helping learners develop the skills necessary for roles such as nursing,social work, healthcare support, and early years care. It also supportsprogression to higher education or apprenticeships in the health andsocial care fields.The Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is ideal for individualsseeking a career in health, social care, nursing, or social work It suitslearners who enjoy practical, coursework-based learning and areinterested in working with people to support their health, well-being,and quality of life. It’s also a strong foundation for those planning toprogress to university degrees or apprenticeships in the health andsocial care fields.
What is covered?
Human growth and development across the lifespanHealth and safety in care environmentsSafeguarding and protection of vulnerable individualsMental health and well-beingCommunication skills in care settingsPromoting health and nutritionEquality, diversity, and inclusionUnderstanding the role of the care workerAnatomy and physiology relevant to care practiceWorking in the health and social care sectors and understandinglegislation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Four GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English and Maths.Completion of a Level 2 qualification, such as the NCFE CACHECertificate in Health and Social Care, plus GCSE English and Maths atgrade 4 or above.
The course is assessed through coursework-based assignments, whichinclude essays, case studies, presentations, and projects. Theseassessments are designed to test both theoretical knowledge andpractical understanding of health and social care topics.There are two exams (External assessments)To achieve the qualification, you must successfully pass all units overthe two years, achieve a minimum grade D in the external assessmentsand evidence a minimum of 175 work placement hours.
Your course will include work experience with an employer to developthe practical and technical skills required for the occupation. We willsupport you in finding relevant work placements, but you mustdemonstrate a willingness to travel to your work placements. These willlast a minimum of 175 hours.You will also require a current Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)enhanced disclosure certificate, which the College will support you toapply for.You will need to purchase a uniform to ensure you can complete thepractical elements of the course and wear it whilst completing workexperience.Stationery such as pens, pencils, a writing pad and a folder will also beessential. Visits to relevant early years organisations may be arrangedthroughout your course, and the total cost, including entry fees andtransport, must be paid in advance.
Start date: 01/09/2025
Course Code
PED3HS5AF
Duration
2 Years
Full-time courses are fully funded for 16 to 18-year-olds. For age 19+, various funding options are available.
The support I received from my support worker and my teachers has helped me gain new skills and develop my knowledge and confidence.
Brandon Harris
Health and Social Care 1, 2 and 3
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Peterborough College
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