Health and Social Care is a vocational course that provides students with a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills needed to work in the health, care, and early years sectors. The course combines theoretical understanding with practical application, making it ideal for students who are interested in supporting others and pursuing careers in healthcare, social work, or education.

What will you study?

Students follow the Edexcel/Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate specification, which includes:

• Human Lifespan Development
• Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs
• Working in Health and Social Care
• Supporting Individuals with Additional Needs

All students also complete a period of work experience related to their programme of study.

Assessment

Assessment is a combination of coursework and external assessment:

• 50% coursework (internally assessed)
• 50% external assessment (exam and externally set assignment)

The course is equivalent to one A Level and is completed over two years.

Entry requirements

To study Health and Social Care, students should have:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 9–4 (or equivalent), including GCSE English

Enrichment opportunities

Students benefit from a range of enrichment activities, including:

• Work placements in health and care settings
• Guest speakers from the NHS and care professions
• Opportunities to explore real-life case studies and care scenarios
• Support for university applications in health-related fields

These experiences help students apply their learning in practical contexts and develop broader skills in empathy, communication, and professionalism.

Progression and careers

Studying Health and Social Care opens doors to a wide range of university courses and career pathways, including:

• Nursing, Midwifery, Occupational Therapy, Social Work, and Early Years Education
• Transferable skills in care planning, communication, and ethical decision-making

This qualification is highly valued by universities and employers in the health and care sectors.

“I chose Health and Social Care as the units are very interesting, such as working in a health and social care sector. It allows me to learn knowledge that is specific to my chosen degree and career path, which is occupational therapy. I enjoy the small class sizes and the balance of coursework and exams.”
— Sophie Harkness