National Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care BTEC Level 3

You will study human lifespan development and meeting individual needs and support needs in the first year; and in the second year will focus on the skills and knowledge needed to work in health and social care, as well as the different sociological perspectives of health and social care. This means you will learn the theoretical basis for providing good quality care, examining how practitioners use legislation, policies, and communication to implement professional practice. Coursework is based around applying knowledge learnt to a Health and Social Care setting, adding a vocational element to the course. The College also supports students in finding work experience placements. Some second year students may have the option of a hospital placement at Brighton and Sussex University Hospital.

Is this course right for me?

This course is ideal for students planning on a career within health and social care. The BTEC Extended Certificate is equivalent to one A level (2 years) and students must have a commitment to continued assessment via course work. Work experience will be required of all students regardless of level of study. For each unit there is plenty of content to learn, and for coursework units, there are regular deadlines that need to be met, so students need to be very organised. There are two exams, plus two pieces of coursework. Students often take Health and Social Care alongside Psychology, Sociology, Biology and Sport, among others.

Where next?

There is a growing demand within this sector and there are a diverse range of opportunities where students can make a real difference to the lives of others including adults, young people and children. Studying Health and Social care can take students in a wide range of directions depending on where their interests lie. Future related careers available in the healthcare and education sectors could include Nurse, Midwife, Social Worker, Mental Health Worker, Counsellor, Personal Assistant, Early Years Teacher and Play Therapist. There are opportunities to progress into management of services and continue training with additional qualifications in the workplace. This subject is ideal for progression onto vocational degrees at university and also provides an excellent foundation for anyone going wanting to go directly into an apprenticeship or employment. During your studies, you will develop an awareness of the importance of values and skills for working in this sector that employers will be looking for. Useful websites to research careers and wider progression options could include Skills for Care, Health Careers, All About Careers and The Apprenticeship Guide.