Health and Social Care (Level 3)
Studying the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care at Townsend provides a strong foundation for a variety of health and social care careers by offering both academic knowledge and practical skills. It is a vocational qualification that prepares students for progression to undergraduate degrees, apprenticeships, and direct employment in the sector. The curriculum is designed with input from employers and universities, ensuring its relevance to current industry demands.
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is a two-year vocational qualification equivalent to three A Levels. It is designed for students who are interested in pursuing careers in healthcare, social care, nursing, midwifery, social work, education, public health, and related professions. The course combines academic study with practical application, developing the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for progression to higher education and employment within the health and social care sector.
Entry Requirements
Typical entry requirements are:
- Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English Language.
- A positive attitude towards working with people and an interest in health and social care
Course Details
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care Specification
https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/BTEC-Nationals/Health-and-Social-Care/2016/specification-and-sample-assessments/9781446950944-btec-nat-extdip-hsc-spec-iss10-150622.pdf
- Qualification: Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care
- Level: 3
- Duration: 2 Years
- Equivalent to: 3 A Levels
- Awarding Body: Pearson
- Guided Learning Hours: 1080
Course Description
This qualification provides students with a broad understanding of health and social care services, human development, safeguarding, anatomy and physiology, research, public health, and professional practice. Students develop transferable skills including communication, problem-solving, teamwork, research, and independent learning.
The programme combines classroom-based learning with practical and work-related activities, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to realistic health and social care scenarios.
Programme of Study
Students will study a range of mandatory and optional units, which may include:
Mandatory Units
- Human Lifespan Development
- Working in Health and Social Care
- Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care
- Enquiries into Current Research in Health and Social Care
- Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs
- Principles of Safe Practice in Health and Social Care
- Promoting Public Health
- Work Experience in Health and Social Care (where applicable)
Optional Units (examples)
- Psychological Perspectives
- Sociological Perspectives
- Supporting Individuals with Additional Needs
- Nutritional Health
- Understanding Mental Health
- Physiological Disorders and their Care
Assessment
The qualification uses a mixture of internal and external assessment methods.
Internal Assessment
Students complete eight coursework assignments, projects, case studies, presentations, reports, and practical tasks that are assessed by teachers and quality assured by Pearson.
External Assessment
Students also complete four externally assessed examinations and set tasks which test their knowledge and understanding of key topics within health and social care.
Home Learning
Home learning will take the form of preparation or review of work in class. This consists largely of reading or tasks given by the teacher. Reading around the subject is essential for greater understanding; the textbook is a starting point, but students are expected to use the reading list to further their understanding.
Why Choose Health and Social Care?
This highly respected qualification offers an engaging blend of academic study and practical learning. It develops the essential skills required for careers that make a real difference to people’s lives while providing a strong route into university, apprenticeships, and employment within one of the UK’s largest employment sectors.
Where Can Health and Social Care Take You?
Successful completion of the Extended Diploma can lead to:
Further Study
Higher Education:
- Adult Nursing
- Children’s Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Midwifery
- Paramedic Science
- Social Work
- Occupational Therapy
- Physiotherapy
- Public Health
- Health Studies
- Childhood Studies
- Healthcare Science
Apprenticeships:
- Healthcare Support Worker
- Nursing Associate
- Social Care Practitioner
- Early Years Practitioner
- Public Health and Community Support roles
Careers
Careers related directly to Health and Social Care:
- Care Assistant
- Support Worker
- Healthcare Assistant
- Residential Care Worker
- Community Support Worker
- Administrative roles within healthcare settings
How Can Parents Support Their Child’s Learning?
Parents can support their child by encouraging good organisation, helping them meet coursework deadlines, discussing current health and social care issues, and encouraging wider reading and research. Supporting regular revision and talking about future career pathways can also help students succeed in this rewarding subject.
Useful Links
- NHS – Information about health conditions, healthy lifestyles and healthcare services.
- Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) – Resources and guidance on social care and safeguarding.
- Age UK – Information and support relating to older adults and ageing.
- https://www.health.org.uk – Research and information on improving health and care services.
For more information, contact Mrs K. Brooks, Assistant Headteacher, Townsend Church of England School.
