Skip to content
Health and Social Care

Health and Social Care Level 3 Extended Diploma

  • Course Type: Diploma/Certificate

What can this course lead to?

Universities widely recognise the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care and can help you enter degree courses related to health, social care, nursing, social work, midwifery, occupational therapy, and other allied health professions.

Or, for employment, some of the possible options are listed below:

  • Healthcare Assistant
  • Social Worker Assistant
  • Nursing Associate
  • Early Years Practitioner
  • Support Worker (e.g., for adults with disabilities or mental health
    issues)
  • Care Worker in residential or domiciliary care
  • Community Care Officer
  • Mental Health Support Worker
  • Youth Worker
  • Occupational Therapy Assistant
  • Rehabilitation Assistant
  • Pharmacy Assistant
  • Health Promotion Assistant
  • Activities Coordinator in care settings

Who is it for?

The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is a vocational
qualification designed to prepare students for careers in health, social
care, and related sectors. Equivalent to three A-levels, it provides a
comprehensive understanding of key topics, including human
development, safeguarding, mental health, communication, and health
promotion.

The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical
skills 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 supports
progression to higher education or apprenticeships in the health and
social care fields.

The Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is ideal for individuals
seeking a career in health, social care, nursing, or social work It suits
learners who enjoy practical, coursework-based learning and are
interested in working with people to support their health, well-being,
and quality of life. It’s also a strong foundation for those planning to
progress to university degrees or apprenticeships in the health and
social care fields.

What is covered?

Here is what will be covered on the course:

  • Human growth and development across the lifespan
  • Health and safety in care environments
  • Safeguarding and protection of vulnerable individuals
  • Mental health and well-being
  • Communication skills in care settings
  • Promoting health and nutrition
  • Equality, diversity, and inclusion
  • Understanding the role of the care worker
  • Anatomy and physiology relevant to care practice
  • Working in the health and social care sectors and understanding
    legislation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To apply to this course, students will need four GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English and Maths.

Completion of a Level 2 qualification, such as the NCFE CACHE Certificate in Health and Social Care, plus GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 or above.

Start date: 01/09/2027

Course Code

PED3HS7AF$

Duration

2 Years

Fees

£9987.60

Full-time courses are fully funded for 16 to 18-year-olds, or up to age 25 for learners with an EHCP. Aged 19+? Explore our Adult Learning courses.

Apply Now Enquire

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

Part of the Inspire Education Group © 2025 All rights reserved.

Website by Itineris
Group Logo